ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Lynk

Propulsion Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary As a Propulsion Design Engineer at Lynk, you will support the development of the Hall ... You will be expected to understand every detail of our propulsion systems and to perform analyses ...

BWXT

Mechanical System Design Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

... rocket propulsion systems, and radioisotope production systems for both internal and external ... The System Design Engineering group supports programs for internal and external customers across ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPropulsion System Design Engineer Jobs

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 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 III

Protingent

Madison, WI • On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description


Position Title: Propulsion Engineer III
Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting Direct Hire Propulsion Engineer III opportunity.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Provide solutions to wide-ranging technical problems that are imaginative, thorough, practical, and consistent with organizational objectives.
  • Determine and develop approaches to solutions while serving as the owner of discrete technical packages
  • Design and analyze propulsion systems and components, conducting performance testing and validation of propulsion systems, and developing and implementing technical standards and best practices.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, you will ensure project success by preparing technical reports and documentation and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
  • Will be responsible for leading complex projects, conducting detailed analyses, and ensuring the reliability and performance of propulsion systems.

Job Qualifications:
  • Requires bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or master's +3 yrs experience).
  • Typically, 5+ years of related experience.
  • Expertise in Propulsion engineering.
  • Experience managing discrete technical packages as a Responsible Engineer (RE).
  • Complete understanding and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts.
  • General knowledge of related disciplines.

Preferred Job Qualifications:
  • Proficiency with propulsion system design and analysis tools such as ANSYS Fluent, CFX, or similar CFD software.
  • Proficiency with NX and SolidWorks.
  • Experience with propulsion system testing, including the use of test stands, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
  • Strong background in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and combustion processes.
  • Familiarity with propulsion system integration and performance optimization.
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as Abaqus or NASTRAN.
  • Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to propulsion systems, such as NASA, FAA, or DoD standards.
  • Experience with project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or PMP certification.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C++ for simulation and data analysis.
  • Strong technical writing skills for preparing detailed technical reports and documentation.

Job Details:
  • Job Type: Direct Hire
  • Location: Madison, WI
  • Salary Range: $100,604-$138,349.
  • Due to government contract requirements, this position is restricted to U.S. Citizens or Green Card Holder only.

About Protingent: Protingent is an Award-Winning provider of top-tier Engineering and IT talent, trusted by companies at the forefront of innovation - from Software and Aerospace to AI, Clean Tech, Medical Devices, and Connected Technologies. We're passionate about making a positive impact by connecting exceptional talent with meaningful opportunities and helping our clients build the future.
Meet Your Recruiter
Sankalp Chivhane

Apply