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Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Associates Systems LLC

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in Houston Texas - No remote is available * Serve as the Chemical Propulsion Refueling Lead acting as the ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Boeing

Experienced Propulsion Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$119K - $162K/yr

Experienced Propulsion Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airlines (BCA) is seeking an Experienced Propulsion Engineer (Level 3) to support our 787 Nacelle Service Engineering ...

MOMENTUS Space

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Boeing

Experienced Propulsion Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$119K - $162K/yr

Experienced Propulsion Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airlines (BCA) is seeking an Experienced Propulsion Engineer (Level 3) to support our 787 Nacelle Service Engineering ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Thales

Specific Engineering CANDIDATES THAT WOULD IMPRESS US PROFILE: You graduated with a Master of Engineering, Computer Science or any other relevant field in University You have significant experience ...

Tanisha Systems, Inc.

Role - Senior Propulsion Engineer - Propulsion Systems Location - Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Onsite) Type :- */T4 - Job Responsibilities: • Support design, analysis and integration of propulsion ...

New

Apex

Chemical Propulsion Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$121K - $165K/yr

About the Role Apex is seeking a Chemical Propulsion Engineer to join our closely integrated team, driving the development of our chemical propulsion systems to meet the requirements of our ...

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Propulsion Engineer Do?

A propulsion engineer helps build propulsion systems for aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. Their job duties include designing, building, and testing propulsion systems. They may also develop assessment tools to determine if equipment will work in practice. A propulsion engineer often works on a large team along with other aerospace and mechanical engineers.

What is the difference between Propulsion Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPropulsion EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; often requires experience in propulsion systemsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; broader focus on mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development of propulsion systems for aerospace or automotive industriesDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical components across various industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and space industriesManufacturing, automotive, energy, and many other sectors

While both roles involve mechanical principles, Propulsion Engineers specialize in propulsion systems for aerospace and automotive applications, focusing on propulsion design, testing, and integration. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across multiple industries. The choice depends on your specific interest in propulsion technology versus general mechanical design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Propulsion Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with propulsion system design and testing. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help you excel in cross-functional teams and complex projects. These skills ensure efficient development, testing, and optimization of propulsion systems critical to the performance and safety of aerospace vehicles.

What are Propulsion Engineers?

Propulsion Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain systems that generate thrust for vehicles such as rockets, airplanes, and spacecraft. They work with various types of engines, including jet engines, rocket motors, and other propulsion technologies to ensure efficient and reliable movement. Their responsibilities often include research, analysis, and troubleshooting related to fuel efficiency, performance, and safety. Propulsion Engineers play a critical role in the aerospace and automotive industries, contributing to advancements in transportation and space exploration.

What are some common challenges Propulsion Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Propulsion Engineers often collaborate with specialists in aerodynamics, structures, and systems integration, which can lead to challenges in aligning technical priorities, timelines, and communication styles. Balancing the propulsion system requirements with overall vehicle performance and safety standards demands effective teamwork and adaptability. Navigating these interdisciplinary interactions successfully helps ensure that propulsion components are seamlessly integrated and meet project goals.
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Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer

Momentus Space LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours ago

Job description

OUR COMPANY
As an early mover in the in-space transportation and infrastructure services, Momentus is at the forefront of the commercialization of space. With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system.
OUR PEOPLE
Daring problems require daring solutions. We boldly charge into uncharted territory knowing that no matter the outcome we will benefit from the journey and move closer to our goals no matter what. Our teams know that working at Momentus means more than building innovative technology, it means creating entirely new markets in the space economy. We are level-headed, business-minded strategic thinkers intent on providing immediate value to our customers today while simultaneously preparing for the vast possibilities of the future. If this sounds like you, we should talk.
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer with a strong hands-on background in spacecraft hardware and propulsion system development. This hybrid role blends mechanical design, propulsion assembly and testing, spacecraft layout/architecture, and cross-functional collaboration across thermal, structural analysis, and manufacturing teams-with a strong emphasis on AIT execution and spacecraft hardware integration. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, hardware-focused environments and enjoys working from concept through fabrication, test, and flight.
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute hands-on assembly and testing of propulsion systems, including tubing, heaters, sensors, valves, and other fluid-system hardware.
  • Develop 3D CAD models, detailed part/assembly drawings, tolerance analyses, and integrated layouts optimized for tightly constrained spacecraft environments.
  • Design spacecraft hardware such as brackets, enclosures, fluid-routing solutions, thermal/mechanical interfaces, and structural components.
  • Generate models, documentation packages, and work instructions to support AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) for propulsion and spacecraft mechanical hardware.
  • Collaborate closely with structural, thermal, analysis, and manufacturing teams to iterate designs through the full engineering lifecycle-from early concepts to flight-ready hardware.
  • Support propulsion and mechanical test campaigns, including setup, execution, data review, troubleshooting, and documentation.
  • Apply aerospace standards-including range safety guidelines and RPUG requirements-to ensure compliance, safety, and mission success.
  • Contribute to process development, continuous improvement, and flight-readiness maturation for mechanical and propulsion subsystems.

Desired Skills & Experience
  • Hands-on experience with propulsion system build-up and testing, including fluid systems, heaters, wiring/sensors, or valve integration.
  • Mechanical design proficiency using modern CAD tools; experience with GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and drawing release workflows.
  • Familiarity with spacecraft packaging constraints, tight-tolerance interfaces, and multidisciplinary integration challenges.
  • Working understanding of propulsion-system fundamentals, thermal behavior, or fluid dynamics is a plus.
  • Knowledge of aerospace standards (range safety, RPUG, etc.) or prior experience working with flight hardware.
  • Strong documentation skills and the ability to produce clear, concise technical communication.
  • Effective collaborator in hands-on, cross-functional engineering environments; capable of taking hardware from bench to flight.

Education & Work Experience
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. 3+ years relevant experience.
  • 3 to 5 years of on-the-job engineering experience.
  • Desire to contribute to a highly hands-on engineering setting involving design, integration, testing, and flight hardware ownership.

Compensation:
Annual Base Salary Range: $130,000 - $170,000/per year
Base pay is one part of our total compensation package (base+bonus+equity) and is determined within a range. Your actual base salary will be determined on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Our benefit plans include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k retirement plan, short and long term disability and life insurance. We also offer flexible PTO, along with 11 paid holidays, sick time and paid parental leave.
This is a full-time position in San Jose, California. This position requires access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, and services. U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3) is required.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
To all recruitment agencies: Momentus does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our employees or any company email. Momentus will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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