ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Propulsion Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Staff / Senior Mechanical Engineer

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$104K - $138K/yr

This role involves hands-on engineering work across system architecture, design, integration ... Experience with mechanical design of aircraft systems, including propulsion, mechanical systems ...

Stratolaunch

Troubleshoot propulsion mechanical systems and ground test integration * Develop test plans and ... Experience with PDM systems, Engineering control and revision control release processes

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAerospace Engineer JobsPropulsion Mechanical Engineer Jobs

Propulsion Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do propulsion mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a propulsion mechanical engineer do?

A Propulsion Mechanical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining the mechanical components of propulsion systems, such as engines, thrusters, and related hardware used in aircraft, spacecraft, or other vehicles. They analyze system requirements, create detailed models and drawings, and work closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the propulsion system performs efficiently and reliably. Their work is critical to ensuring vehicles achieve the necessary thrust and performance while meeting safety and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion mechanical engineer?

To thrive as a Propulsion Mechanical Engineer, you need a robust understanding of mechanical engineering principles, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS, and experience with propulsion system testing are commonly required, and certifications such as EIT or PE can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel when collaborating on complex engineering projects. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and innovative design and operation of propulsion systems.

What are some common challenges faced by propulsion mechanical engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Propulsion Mechanical Engineers often collaborate with electrical, systems, and manufacturing teams to develop complex propulsion systems. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may have different priorities and technical languages. Balancing performance goals with manufacturability and cost constraints can also be demanding. Successful Propulsion Mechanical Engineers proactively seek feedback, clarify requirements, and adapt designs to align with the broader project's objectives.

What states have the most Propulsion Mechanical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Propulsion Mechanical Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Mechanical Engineer jobs?

For Propulsion Mechanical Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Propulsion Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Propulsion)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

K2 Space
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about K2 Spaceexternal

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion in signed contracts across commercial and US government customers, we're mass-producing the highest-power satellite platforms ever built for missions from LEO to deep space.
The rise of heavy-lift launch vehicles is shifting the industry from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance, and we believe this new era demands a fundamentally different class of spacecraft. Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and tomorrow's massive rockets, K2 satellites deliver unmatched capability at constellation scale and across multiple orbits.
With multiple launches in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization. If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and you're excited about contributing to the success of a high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply.
The Role
You will own the success of mechanical structures and mechanisms used for a propulsion system that will be the highest-powered electric propulsion system ever flown and unlock new mission concepts and increase our access to deep space. As part of a small multidisciplinary team, your role will involve mechanical design, development, build, test, and analysis of the satellite's plasma propulsion system and all related hardware. In your first 6 months, you will define product requirements, create initial concepts and trades, perform preliminary and detailed analysis, define development test campaigns, and produce development hardware. In your first year, you will validate your designs through prototype iterations and build and qualify flight hardware. In your first two years you will fly your hardware in space while directly supporting production and integration.
Responsibilities
  • Own the mechanical design of propulsion system hardware including propulsion modules, critical thruster components, the propellant management system, avionics box design, propulsion secondary structures, and potentially tank development
  • Validate your designs through the entire lifecycle from concept to production, and successful flight demonstrations
  • Generate 3D models, fully dimensioned drawings, and interface control documents
  • Perform analysis on data from testing hardware, iterating designs, and critical go/no-go calls on hardware performance
  • Develop and execute component and system-level test plans
  • Manage key propulsion vendors and suppliers through hardware delivery
  • Continually own and refine sub-system deliverable schedules throughout development and production

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline
  • 10+ years of experience with mechanical and/or electromechanical design and analysis
  • Experience with CAD or FEA software packages
  • Experience with the practical application of GD&T
  • Demonstrated proficiency in the principles of mechanical design, materials, thermodynamics, and fluids
  • Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and test hardware from a blank canvas, including troubleshooting and iterating designs based on downstream feedback

Nice to Have
  • Demonstrated ability to own mechanical hardware or systems within an integrated engineering team outside a classroom setting
  • Experience in advanced propulsion technologies, including high-performance engines, in-space propulsion, and propulsion system integration
  • Experience designing, building, and testing mechanical assemblies for aerospace applications (satellite mechanical systems, payloads, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and/or aircraft structures and mechanisms)
  • Deep experience in the development and qualification of high-pressure and low-pressure fluidic components, this may include flight feed system or pressurized tanks
  • Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems in space environments and operations
  • Experience with production tooling or product design in either prototype or high-volume environments

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Base salary range for this role is $140,000 - $175,000 + equity in the company
  • Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level
  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks

If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged!
If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.
Export Compliance
As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person."
The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.
Equal Opportunity
K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
K2 Space logo

About K2 Space

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2022

View All K2 Space Jobs

Apply