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Propulsion Engineering Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

KBR, Inc.

Small UAS Engine Engineer

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

The role involves in-office collaboration with government teams and contractors to support propulsion engineering activities across development, testing, production, and sustainment. The position ...

Aero Propulsion Support Inc

Expediter

Harrison, OH · On-site

... Engineering to maintain and build relationships to support the activity and direction of Aero Propulsion Support, Inc. Essential Functions Production Requirement (Implementation thru cell leaders ...

HX5 LLC

Motor Drive Engineer

Brook Park, OH · On-site

... drive engineering support to NASA's Glenn Research Center (GRC) Transformational Tools and Technologies' Alternative Propulsion Focus Area which develops next-generation hybrid propulsion ...

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All JobsPropulsion Engineering JobsPropulsion Engineering Jobs in Ohio

Propulsion Engineering information

See Ohio salary details

$39K

$97.8K

$159.2K

How much do propulsion engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineering in Ohio is $97,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $112,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Propulsion Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPropulsion EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion Engineering; certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) are commonBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; PE certification is also common
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test propulsion systems for aircraft, spacecraft, or missilesDesign, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and space industriesBroad industry use including automotive, manufacturing, energy, and aerospace

Propulsion Engineering focuses specifically on propulsion systems for aerospace and defense applications, requiring specialized knowledge of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics. Mechanical Engineering offers a broader scope, covering various mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles share foundational engineering principles and certifications, Propulsion Engineers specialize in propulsion technologies, making their work more niche within the engineering field.

What is propulsion engineering?

Propulsion engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on the design, development, testing, and maintenance of systems that move vehicles or objects by generating thrust. This can include propulsion systems for aircraft, rockets, spacecraft, ships, and even some land vehicles. Propulsion engineers work with various technologies such as jet engines, rocket motors, and other power plants, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely. The discipline combines principles from mechanical, aerospace, and electrical engineering to create reliable propulsion solutions.

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, a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with thermodynamics and fluid mechanics are essential, often requiring at least a bachelor's degree in engineering. Hands-on experience with CAD software, propulsion simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications (e.g., ASME) are typically needed. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help propulsion engineers collaborate on complex projects and communicate technical ideas clearly. These skills are vital for designing reliable and efficient propulsion systems that meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges propulsion engineers face when working on new engine designs?

Propulsion engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance requirements with strict safety and environmental regulations, integrating new materials or technologies, and optimizing efficiency while minimizing costs. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including aerodynamics, materials science, and control systems, is essential to address these complexities. Additionally, propulsion engineers must stay adaptable to fast-paced project timelines and frequent design iterations, making effective communication and problem-solving skills crucial.
What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Engineering jobs in Ohio? For Propulsion Engineering jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Engineering jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Engineering jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Propulsion Engineering jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Propulsion Engineering job openings:
Propulsion Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineering job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,755 per year, or $47 per hour.
Small UAS Engine Engineer

Small UAS Engine Engineer

KBR, Inc.

Beavercreek, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 369 rated engineering

Job description

Title:
Small UAS Engine Engineer
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
Small UAS Engine Subject Matter Expert (SME)
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Key Responsibilities:
The Small UAS Engine SME reports to the R&D Portfolio Manager within the Air Force Acquisition Operating Unit (AFA OU). This position provides engineering and technical support for small piston engines used in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in support of an Air Force System Program Office. The role involves in-office collaboration with government teams and contractors to support propulsion engineering activities across development, testing, production, and sustainment. The position also supports test events and program execution through coordination, technical analysis, documentation, and travel to contractor and government facilities as required. The role requires a technically credible propulsion engineer who combines strong analytical and systems-level thinking with disciplined program execution, clear communication, and the ability to collaborate effectively across government, contractor, and test environments.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Provide engineering and technical support for small piston engines used in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), supporting Air Force System Program Office (SPO) activities across development, production, test, and sustainment.
  • Perform in-office technical support to Program Managers (PMs), engineers, and Integrated Product Teams (IPTs), including propulsion engineering analysis, requirements traceability, technical documentation review, and issue tracking.
  • Support coordination activities with prime contractors, UAS manufacturers, and engine vendors, including review of engine designs, data packages, analyses, and compliance artifacts.
  • Support test and evaluation activities for small piston engines, including test planning support, on-site test execution support, test data reduction, performance monitoring, durability assessments, and engine anomaly documentation.
  • Participate in program technical forums, including Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), design reviews (PDR/CDR), airworthiness activities, and readiness reviews, supporting preparation of briefings, technical content, and action items.
  • Provide lifecycle and sustainment engineering support, including reliability and maintainability assessments, maintenance concepts, technical order inputs, parts obsolescence tracking, and sustainment planning support.
  • Travel as required to contractor facilities, government test locations, depots, and flight test sites to support propulsion engineering activities, testing, and program execution

Work Environment:
  • Location: Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio
  • Travel Requirements: Minimal, 20-25%, with surge up to 50%
  • Working Hours: Standard

Required Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in propulsion, mechanical systems, or related engineering roles, with exposure to small piston engines (UAS, aviation, powersports, or similar applications).
  • Demonstrated experience supporting engineering, test, or sustainment activities across development, integration, or operational environments.
  • Ability to review and interpret technical documentation, including engine specifications, test reports, engineering drawings, and performance data.
  • Experience working in or supporting government program office or defense acquisition environments.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to support technical meetings, prepare engineering content, and coordinate across teams.
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to ~25% to contractor facilities, government sites, test locations, and depots. Possible surge up to 50%
  • Active DoD Secret clearance is required.

Desired Qualifications and Skills:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Experience with small piston aviation engines used in UAS, including 2-stroke, 4-stroke, or heavy-fuel engines.
  • Hands-on experience supporting engine ground test or flight test activities, including test data analysis and anomaly investigation.
  • Familiarity with UAS propulsion integration, including fuel systems, cooling, controls, and airframe interfaces.
  • Experience supporting DoD acquisition programs, including development, production, or sustainment of airborne systems.
  • Knowledge of airworthiness processes, military or civil (e.g., Military Flight Release, FAA concepts applied to UAS).
  • Experience with sustainment engineering, including reliability analysis, maintenance concepts, depot support, or obsolescence management.
  • Ability to develop and support technical briefings and written products for program reviews, test events, and IPT meetings.
  • Prior experience working at test ranges, flight test organizations, or contractor facilities in a field support role.
  • Top Secret clearance with ability to obtain SCI/SAP is desired

Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at [Company Name]. Let's shape the future together.
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

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At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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