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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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.

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 ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA

$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 ...

Stratolaunch

Fluid System Design Engineer

Mojave, CA

... System Design Engineer to support design, integration, testing, and maintenance of Talon-A ... Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing * Develop ...

Stratolaunch

Fluid System Design Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

... System Design Engineer to support design, integration, testing, and maintenance of Talon-A ... Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing * Develop ...

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Propulsion System Design Engineer information

See salary details

$49.5K

$118.6K

$173.5K

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

As of Jun 26, 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, and why are they important?

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.

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Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs near you
Propulsion System Engineer

Propulsion System Engineer

North Wind

Newport News, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Join North Wind – Accelerating Hypersonic Innovation

At North Wind, we are advancing hypersonic technologies through cutting-edge research, system development, and flight testing. Our team drives innovation in high-speed aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and mission-critical components, supporting every phase of hypersonic programs—from R&D to flight testing. If you are passionate about pushing technological boundaries in a dynamic environment, we invite you to join us. Satellite engineering offices across the US are available so location constraints are potentially flexible.

Propulsion System Engineer (Senior and Principal levels considered)

The Propulsion System Engineer performs steady-state and transient modeling of the performance and operability of high-speed aerospace propulsion systems to support all phases of vehicle development, including design, integration, and ground and flight test. This role contributes to aerospace system design and optimization by delivering accurate numerical insights validated against physical models and test data, while collaborating closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

This position is eligible for remote work.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and support propulsion system design and analysis tasks using classical propulsion cycle code methods and emerging engineering tools.
  • Develop new physics-based design and analysis tools for propulsion system components and technologies.
  • Perform analysis of internal flows of airbreathing propulsion flowpaths, including high-speed systems with complex shock / boundary layer interactions, combustion, and thermal management.
  • Develop and recommend design solutions to optimize airbreathing propulsion performance and operability for high-speed systems.
  • Support multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) efforts, including integration of propulsion models with aerodynamics, airframe structures, power, and controls simulations.
  • Prepare clear technical documentation, analysis summaries, charts, and presentations for internal reviews and external stakeholders.
  • Interface with customer technical representatives to review and discuss analysis activities and results.

Preferred Education / Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or related discipline.
  • 10-15+ years of experience in high speed airbreathing propulsion or similar industry; or
  • A combination of education and experience equivalent to above.

Preferred Knowledge / Ability:

  • Experience with design and analysis of ramjet and scramjet engines and related vehicle system design and analysis.
  • Demonstrated application of engineering design and analysis codes for engine flowpaths, cycle analysis for different classes of propulsion systems, and aerothermal analysis.
  • Deep competency in thermodynamics and gas dynamics, including experience with propulsion system related analysis tools (e.g., CEA and REFPROP).
  • Strong programming skills for modeling and analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB/Simulink, Fortran, or C++), including scripting for automation of simulations and data reduction.
  • Experience with high-speed vehicle design, propulsion / airframe integration, and / or trajectory analysis, CFD, and optimization codes a plus.
  • Familiarity with ground or flight testing of airbreathing propulsion systems.
  • Strong analytical mindset with rigorous attention to validation, verification, and engineering accuracy.
  • Proficiency in interpreting engineering plans, technical drawings, and specifications.
  • Strong written and verbal communication.
  • Active U.S. security clearance preferred; candidates must be U.S. citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain a clearance.


North Wind Group logo

About North Wind Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Wind Group is a renowned engineering, construction, environmental, and technical services firm based in Idaho Falls, ID, United States. This U.S owned firm, with its robust portfolio, offers a wide range of services including, but not limited to, infrastructure, waste management, remediation, environmental, and construction services. North Wind Group was established in 1997 and since then, it has expanded its operations across the United States, becoming a national provider of high-quality, cost-effective technical and engineering solutions. The company's core values express its commitment to safety, integrity, customer service, innovation, and teamwork, which are all critical to its mission of delivering innovative and sustainable solutions aimed to protect the environment and improve the lives of communities.

Industry

Government relations and lobbying services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Idaho Falls, ID, US

Year founded

1997

Social media

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