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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRC Talent Solutions

Propulsion Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA · On-site +1

$69.75 - $70/hr

This Propulsion Engineer will combine deep expertise in propulsion and thermal systems with hands ... The ideal candidate has worked on propulsion system design, modeling, analysis, integration, and ...

Busek

Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Experience with electric or chemical propulsion system design, integration, or testing ... Background in reliability engineering and system safety practices, including FMECA and PFMEA/DFMEA.

True Scout Partners

Propulsion Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

Define and manage system-level requirements, interfaces, and design constraints for propulsion ... Coordinate with FAA ACOs and DERs (Designated Engineering Representatives) on compliance planning ...

Agile Space Industries

Staff Propulsion Engineer

Durango, CO · On-site

$144K - $200K/yr

... engineering services for the space industry. Headquartered in Durango, Colorado, with expanding ... At Agile, we design, build, and test in-space propulsion systems that give spacecraft the ability ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Design, build, and test propulsion fluid systems, including feed systems, tank pressurization ... Generate and maintain engineering documentation such as requirements, interface control documents ...

Stellantis

System Design Lead

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

* System design lead (SDL) acts as leader for individual propulsion system programs ensuring ... Partner with propulsion chief engineers, sub-systems, vehicle and planning teams to balance ...

Protingent

Propulsion Engineer III

Madison, WI · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

Propulsion Engineer III Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting Direct Hire ... Design and analyze propulsion systems and components, conducting performance testing and validation ...

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All JobsPropulsion System Design Engineer Jobs

Propulsion System Design Engineer information

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$49.5K

$118.6K

$173.5K

How much do propulsion system design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion system design engineer in the United States is $118,589.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by propulsion system design engineers when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Propulsion System Design Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with existing subsystems, meeting stringent safety and regulatory standards, and managing weight or space constraints. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including structural, thermal, and controls engineers—is essential to address these issues. Additionally, rapid advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques require engineers to stay updated and adapt designs efficiently, all while maintaining reliability and performance.

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

To thrive as a Propulsion System Design Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, advanced knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools (such as ANSYS or MATLAB), and industry standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, innovative, and efficient propulsion system designs that meet rigorous technical and regulatory standards.

What does a propulsion system design engineer do?

A Propulsion System Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing propulsion systems used in vehicles such as airplanes, rockets, or spacecraft. These engineers work on components like engines, turbines, and fuel systems to ensure they meet performance, safety, and efficiency standards. Their role often involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, conducting simulations, and overseeing prototype testing. They play a critical part in advancing technology and meeting regulatory requirements for propulsion systems.

What is the difference between Propulsion System Design Engineer vs Propulsion Test Engineer?

AspectPropulsion System Design EngineerPropulsion Test Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing propulsion systemsTesting and validating propulsion systems
Skills & CertificationsMechanical/ aerospace engineering, CAD, system modelingTesting procedures, data analysis, troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, engineering offices, R&D facilitiesTest facilities, labs, on-site testing environments
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, defense, space industriesUsed in aerospace, space, and research sectors

The Propulsion System Design Engineer focuses on creating and developing propulsion systems, while the Propulsion Test Engineer specializes in testing and validating these systems to ensure performance and safety. Both roles require engineering expertise but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

More about Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Propulsion System Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs are:
Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion System Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,589 per year, or $57 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer

TRC Talent Solutions

Sandy Springs, GA • On-site, Remote

$69.75 - $70/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

TRC is working alongside a nimble firm in the aerospace arena that is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to help a small team of engineers advance novel concepts for high-speed flight research through modeling and simulation. US Citizenship required.  This is a contract role to start.   Position can sit remote or in Atlanta.


This Propulsion Engineer will combine deep expertise in propulsion and thermal systems with hands-on hardware development experience. The ideal candidate has worked on propulsion system design, modeling, analysis, integration, and testing across rocket, airbreathing, or advanced propulsion systems. This is a highly technical role for an engineer who enjoys balancing analytical work (performance modeling, thermal/fluid analysis, design studies) with hands-on activities such as system integration, test preparation, and hot-fire testing.


Key Responsibilities

  • Perform propulsion system design studies, cycle analyses, and performance trade assessments.

  • Design and develop propulsion components including thrust chambers, ignition systems, valves, tanks, and pressurization systems.

  • Create thermal and fluid system models to evaluate performance and reliability.

  • Support propulsion system integration across mechanical, electrical, and fluid subsystems.

  • Participate in ground testing, data analysis, and model validation.

  • Collaborate with suppliers, partners, and customers, including government stakeholders.

  • Present technical progress, system performance, and development plans to customers.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

  • Strong understanding of propulsion systems, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion.

  • Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks, NX, CATIA, or Creo.

  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree and 5+ years of relevant aerospace experience.

  • Experience with liquid rocket engine integration and testing.

  • Knowledge of cryogenic systems, fluid network modeling (GFSSP, ROCETS), and aerospace hardware.

  • Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or Fortran.

  • Leadership experience or desire to lead technical teams.

TRC Talent Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.