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Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RED CAT HOLDINGS

Propulsion Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Position Summary We are looking for a Propulsion Engineer to join our propulsion systems team. You will participate in the development, optimization, and testing of high-performance brushless motor ...

TEAL DRONES INC

Propulsion Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Position Summary We are looking for a Propulsion Engineer to join our propulsion systems team. You will participate in the development, optimization, and testing of high-performance brushless motor ...

Lockheed Martin

Propulsion Engineer

Littleton, CO · On-site

In this role you will support the engineering team by performing preliminary and detailed level electric propulsion component and system design, development, and integration for flight as well as ...

Apex

Electric Propulsion Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$121K - $165K/yr

About the Role Apex is seeking an Electric Propulsion Engineer to join our closely integrated team, driving the development of our propulsion systems to meet the requirements of our spacecraft bus.

AeroVironment

Propulsion Engineer III

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$102K - $145K/yr

Worker Type Regular We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer III to support the integration, validation, and lifecycle management of propulsion systems for our UAV platforms. This role requires a multi ...

Astranis

Senior Propulsion Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $169K/yr

Senior Propulsion Engineer As our Senior Propulsion Engineer, you will be a leader in designing, building, and testing our propulsion systems. You will use your experience to improve the performance ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA

$135K - $160K/yr

Plan and execute propulsion integration and test campaigns, including component, subsystem, and full vehicle testing * Generate and maintain engineering documentation such as requirements, interface ...

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Propulsion Engineer information

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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.
Low-Speed Propulsion Engineer

Low-Speed Propulsion Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 56 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you interested in the development and evaluation of low-speed propulsion?
Do you enjoy solving challenging problems with a complementary team of engineers?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking an experienced Low-Speed Propulsion Engineer with experience in propulsion system design, testing, and analysis. In this role, you will lead and contribute to the development, modeling, and experimental evaluation of propulsion concepts operating in subsonic and transonic regimes.
You'll serve as a technical contributor and mentor, providing subject-matter expertise in propulsion fundamentals while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems that directly support national defense missions.
As a low-speed propulsion engineer, you will...
  • Lead propulsion analysis and design efforts for low-speed applications, including cycle analysis, performance modeling, and integration studies.
  • Design, plan, and oversee experimental campaigns, including wind tunnel tests, ground-based propulsion experiments, and hardware evaluations.
  • Develop, refine, and validate propulsion system models for use in design trades and system-level assessments.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance in propulsion fundamentals and experimental best practices.
  • Present technical findings and recommendations to sponsors, stakeholders, and leadership.
  • Contribute to innovative research initiatives in advanced propulsion technologies, air-breathing systems, and hybrid propulsion concepts.
  • Utilize propulsion modeling tools to conduct trade studies, performance assessments, and conceptual design studies of various weapon systems.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in propulsion system design, analysis, or testing.
  • Demonstrated expertise in propulsion fundamentals, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
  • Experience with propulsion modeling and simulation tools (e.g., NPSS, CFD codes, MATLAB, Python).
  • Strong track record of delivering technical results independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to brief sponsors and document results.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
  • Experience leading propulsion test campaigns, including facility coordination, test article design, and data analysis.
  • Familiarity with multiple propulsion speed regimes to include solid rocket motors, ramjets and scramjets.
  • Working knowledge of uncertainty quantification, experimental methods, and system-level trade studies.
  • Active DoD Secret or higher clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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