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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

* System design lead (SDL) acts as leader for individual propulsion system programs ensuring ... Partner with propulsion chief engineers, sub-systems, vehicle and planning teams to balance ...

Design and analyze liquid and solid propulsion systems, components, and subsystems * Develop test ... Ensure compliance with NASA engineering standards, safety protocols, and quality assurance ...

The scope of the propulsion engineering department spans launch vehicle engines, spacecraft ... Serve as a senior technical authority for propulsion and fluid systems, supporting major design ...

... Engineers and others including Propulsion Systems management. Basic Qualifications: * Bachelor ... General knowledge of commercial CAD packages including NX and Teamcenter.

Showing results 41-60

Propulsion System Design Engineer information

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$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:
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 Design Engineer - Hypergolics with Security Clearance

Associates Systems LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Propulsion Engineer
US Citizen/Permanent Resident
Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Extensive knowledge in component and system certification and the impacts of component design and operating environment on certification
Provides support to national and international customers for Gateway and International Space, visiting vehicles, and Commercial Crew customers
Extensive knowledge in the design and development of major elements of ground test and space flight systems required to demonstrate the utilization of propulsion and fluid systems
Writes technical and progress reports covering assigned tasks which are made available to other technical groups and agencies
Resolves unique or novel problems, conditions, and issues as related to Propulsion Subsystems
Provide support for flight Anomaly Resolution review and In-Flight Investigation review, capable of solving propulsion questions with low levels of information
Perform other duties as required Requisition Qualifications: Typically requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and normally possess 5-10 years of related experience. License and certification may be required.
Spacecraft propulsion experience with a focus on fluid and mechanical aspects
Experience in the design, assembly, testing, certification, and operation of space propulsion systems and components
Experience coordinating space propulsion systems requirements verification and validation between multiple organizations
Basic knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in the field, such as mechanical system design, engineering drawings and sketches, material selection, testing, and office software
Excellent organizational skills, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to coordinate support from a wide range of technical disciplines
Confident in knowledge and experience, and able to discuss propulsion topics with subject matter experts Requisition Preferences: Requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in engineering and may be expected to have a related master's degree and possess 2 plus years of related experience
Familiar with JSC organizations, processes, and procedures
Familiarity with the NASA JSC Engineering Life Cycle process Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency may be a requirement for this position .
Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.