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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs in Clinton, MD

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Contribute to the design, development, and qualification of propellant tanks, pumps, and advanced spacecraft propulsion systems * Execute engineering tasks across design, analysis, manufacturing ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Technician II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$24 - $48/hr

Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering teams ... Experience creating or interpreting CAD models, engineering drawings, and mechanical assembly ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Technician II

Rockville, MD

$24 - $48/hr

Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering teams ... Experience creating or interpreting CAD models, engineering drawings, and mechanical assembly ...

Hydrasearc

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). Hands‑on ...

Dixon Valve Company

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). Hands‑on ...

Hydrasearch Company

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). Hands‑on ...

Dixon

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). * Hands-on ...

Hydrasearch

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). * Hands-on ...

The Dixon Group

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). * Hands-on ...

Hydrasearch

Design Engineer

Stevensville, MD · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Manage design data within PDM systems to ensure strict version control. Define inspection ... Familiarity with marine propulsion hardware (rudders, struts, shafts, or couplings). * Hands-on ...

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Propulsion System Design Engineer information

See Clinton, MD salary details

$49.2K

$117.9K

$172.5K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion system design engineer in Clinton, MD is $117,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,400.00 and $136,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Propulsion System Design Engineer jobs near you

Propulsion Engineer II

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD • On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking a motivated and technically drivenEngineer II - Propulsion to contribute to the development of advanced propellant tanks, pumps, and next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems supporting Ranger missions. In this role, you will help design, develop, qualify, integrate, and support flight propulsion hardware that enables high-mobility spacecraft for national security, civil, and commercial space applications.
Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations teams, you will support propulsion hardware throughout the full product lifecycle-from concept development through flight operations. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, taking ownership of hardware development, and contributing directly to flight-ready spacecraft systems.
Where You'll Make an Impact
  • Contribute to the design, development, and qualification of propellant tanks, pumps, and advanced spacecraft propulsion systems
  • Execute engineering tasks across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, qualification, integration, and flight support activities
  • Perform propulsion system trade studies and technical evaluations supporting spacecraft architecture decisions
  • Develop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion hardware development
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver propulsion hardware on schedule while meeting technical and program objectives
  • Support subsystem integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, and mission readiness
  • Investigate propulsion hardware anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions
  • Contribute to the development of propulsion engineering standards, best practices, and continuous process improvements
  • Support technical reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)
  • Operate within a fast-paced development environment focused on rapid execution, technical excellence, and mission success

What It Takes
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • 3+ years of experience developing propulsion systems, fluid systems, or related aerospace hardware
  • Experience designing, analyzing, fabricating, testing, and integrating propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems
  • Demonstrated ability to independently execute technical work from concept through implementation while collaborating effectively with engineers, technicians, manufacturing personnel, and cross-functional stakeholders
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environment

Nice-to-Have Experience
  • Experience leading significant engineering tasks supporting the development of propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems
  • Experience performing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and/or Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
  • Experience performing performance analysis of pump-fed spacecraft propulsion systems
  • Experience designing, analyzing, or testing propellant management devices (PMDs)
  • Experience with laser welding, friction stir welding, or other advanced aerospace manufacturing processes
  • Experience machining aerospace-grade components using CNC equipment
  • Experience testing propulsion systems utilizing propellants such as hydrazine and MON-3
  • Experience designing gear pumps, pump motors, or other spacecraft fluid system components
  • Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs
  • Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools

What You'll Get
  • Ownership - Take responsibility for mission-critical propulsion hardware and systems from concept through flight
  • Innovation - Help develop advanced propulsion technologies enabling next-generation spacecraft mobility and maneuverability
  • Impact - Deliver reliable, flight-ready propulsion systems supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions
  • Growth - Join a multidisciplinary engineering team where you'll contribute across propulsion development, integration, testing, and mission execution
  • Compensation - Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation

Location: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA
Base Salary: $110,000-$160,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, technical expertise, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full-time offers and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Apply