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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

NDI Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

NDI Engineering Company is seeking Mechanical Engineers to support propulsion systems onboard U.S ... Provide design, installation, and testing support of power transmission systems including ...

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Propulsion System Design Engineer information

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.

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Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion System Design Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Astrobotic Technology Inc

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Senior Propulsion Engineer will be responsible for working directly on all aspects of the propulsion systems, from initial component and system sizing through specification, procurement, integration, test, and mission operations. You will regularly report to the Propulsion Lead on progress, as part of a joint propulsion team including the Mojave office.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Lead and support the design of new propulsion systems for spacecraft
  • Coordinate between program management and other spacecraft subsystems to assess design progress, schedule, and risks
  • Create conceptual and detailed designs of hypergol-based propulsion systems including tanks, valves, instrumentation, engines, and pressurization systems.
  • Perform high-level trade studies of the propulsion system to incorporate it into the flight vehicle architecture and integrate with other subsystems including structures, GNC, thermal, integration & test, and mission operations.
  • Build and run propulsion system fluid-thermal models to guide design and operational decisions
  • Supplier management including developing specifications for vendor supplied components, providing technical review of manufacturing processes, and assuring requirements are met via test and/or analysis
  • Create integration instructions, and provide support during spacecraft assembly in the cleanroom
  • Contribute to technical readiness and safety reviews for testing activities
  • Write mission operations procedures and provide real time mission operations support
  • Write and present technical reports

Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • Experience (8+ years) in propulsion system design, analysis, manufacture, integration, and test
  • Senior-level experience with hypergolic propulsion systems
  • Demonstrated ability to coordinate a technical team aligned to a common goal
  • Knowledge of propulsion system architecture, best practices, components, and suppliers
  • Experience with fluid system design and analysis software
  • Decision making with informed risk to properly balance quality, cost, and schedule
  • Component specification, vendor management, and requirements verification for components as valves, pressure vessels, pumps, thrusters, instrumentation
  • Ability to drive technical rigor in engineering design and verification to meet quality requirements
  • Performance of risk assessment and management processes
  • Prioritization of safety for people and equipment
  • Familiarity with systems engineering processes
  • Familiarity with propulsion system and spacecraft cleanliness standards

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

  • Experience with space and / or lunar systems, environments, and design considerations.
  • Experience with hypergolic fluids handling and safety (hands-on preferred)
  • Familiarity with cryogenic propellants
  • Specific expertise in commercial software packages for fluid-thermal modeling including Thermal Desktop and Amesim
  • Analytical/scientific programming (Python, C/C++, Matlab, Fortran)
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (specifically Ansys FLUENT or CFX)
  • Familiarity with aerospace standards
  • Familiarity with explosive hazard calculations
  • Knowledge of propellant mixing, temperature control, and combustion chemistry
  • Understanding of pressure vessel specifications and requirements
  • Knowledge of Range Safety and Ground Safety requirements, and system safety processes
  • Test facility design, assembly, and operation