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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Shield AI

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$150K - $230K/yr

Advise on propulsion system readiness and define test objectives, test point development, build up ... Collaborate with Instrumentation Engineering to ensure data quality, test post process analysis ...

Extron

AV Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

In this role you will assist Extron customers with AV system designs, product training, commissioning, and technical support. AV Systems Design Engineers also work with the sales team as a technical ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Design Engineer

Monee, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

SolidWorks (PDM), Hydraulic/Pneumatic/Electrical System Design, ERP Systems (IFS preferred), BOM Development. We are seeking an Applications Engineer to serve as the technical bridge between sales ...

GFT.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to ... We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in our Chicago office. Candidate will be ...

GFT.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to ... We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in our Chicago office. Candidate will be ...

GFT.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$85K - $120K/yr

From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to ... We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in our Chicago office. Candidate will be ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Design Engineer

Wood Dale, IL

$75K - $90K/yr

Design Engineer Location : Wood Dale, IL 60191 Hire Type : Direct Hire Salary : $75,000 - $90,000 ... Design and develop custom retail fixtures and display systems primarily focused on metal products.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

Peraton

NEXCOM Senior Systems Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Develop system design packages that support site preparation, procurement, and installation activities . * Support development of site engineering packages required for radio equipment installations.

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All JobsPropulsion System Design Engineer JobsPropulsion System Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Propulsion System Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$122.2K

$178.7K

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion system design engineer in Chicago, IL is $122,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,000.00 and $141,100.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Propulsion System Design Engineer job openings:
Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs near you
Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Shield AI

Mundelein, IL • On-site

$150K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking a highly experienced Propulsion Test Engineer to lead propulsion test planning and execution for X-BAT, the world’s first autonomous VTOL jet aircraft. In this role, you will shape the propulsion test strategy, direct complex engine and hover test campaigns, and provide technical leadership across the program to ensure safe and rapid development of a next-generation autonomous aircraft. 
 
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in jet propulsion testing, developmental flight test operations, to include mission control room operations, and high-energy ground testing. You will work closely with propulsion engineers, flight test teams, autonomy developers, instrumentation specialists, and safety organizations to define test objectives, assess risk, and deliver the data required to advance the aircraft through its test envelope. 
 
This is a high-impact role for a technical leader who thrives in fast-paced, experimental environments and who wants to help define the future of autonomous aviation. 
What you'll do:
  • Support engine, hover, static, and integrated propulsion test campaigns for X-BAT including planning, execution, and post-test analysis. 
  • Advise on propulsion system readiness and define test objectives, test point development, build up approach, success criteria, and instrumentation requirements. 
  • Develop and review test procedures, hazard analyses, run cards, and safety documentation for high-energy test operations. 
  • Provide technical oversight during engine runs, hover tests, transition testing, and propulsion-autonomy integration events. 
  • Serve as a propulsion subject-matter expert during Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Test Hazard Analyses (THAs), and Operational Risk Management (ORM) assessments 
  • Support root-cause investigations related to propulsion performance, engine controls, thermal behavior, vibration, and integration issues. 
  • Partner with Autonomy and Avionics teams to evaluate propulsion-related interactions such as thrust control logic, response lags, fail-safes, and emergency behaviors. 
  • Collaborate with Instrumentation Engineering to ensure data quality, test post process analysis, reporting, timing, and fidelity across propulsion channels. 
  • Support field deployments, remote test sites, and intensive test cycles as required to meet program schedules. 
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline. 
  • 8+ years of experience in propulsion testing for jet engines, VTOL systems, unmanned aircraft, or developmental flight test programs. 
  • Demonstrated expertise executing and analyzing engine tests, hover/transition events, and integrated propulsion-airframe testing. 
  • Strong understanding of engine controls, FADEC systems, thrust measurement, thermal analysis, and vibration/loads behavior. 
  • Experience writing and reviewing high-energy test procedures, readiness documentation, and hazard analyses. 
  • Proven ability to operate safely and decisively in fast-paced test environments. 
  • Excellent communication skills and demonstrated performance in multidisciplinary engineering organizations. 
  • Ability to travel and support extended field test deployments. 
Preferred qualifications:
  • Master’s degree or higher in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering. 
  • Experience with tail-sitter, VTOL, or thrust-vectoring propulsion systems. 
  • Background in autonomy-powered aircraft, propulsion-system modeling, or propulsion-flight-control integration. 
  • Familiarity with IRIG, PCM, instrumentation requirements, and high-rate telemetry data. 
  • Experience supporting complex investigations or leading propulsion technical review boards. 
  • Prior involvement in developmental or experimental flight test programs. 
  • Experience with compressed-air starts, engine-health monitoring systems, or high-temperature structural analysis. 
#LI-JM1
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.