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Propulsion System Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tuskegee University

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

Firefly Aerospace

Director, Propulsion Engineering

TX · On-site

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 ...

Stellantis

System Design Lead

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

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

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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 8, 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:
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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 - Plumbing Design and Fabrication

Intuitive Machines LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Propulsion Engineer - Plumbing Design and Fabrication

Houston, TX

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. We believe our mission is to further research, communications, and exploration beyond low lunar orbit. With multiple NASA lunar missions in the making and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting NASA, our customers, and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.

About the Role

For this role, we are seeking a Propulsion Plumbing Design and Fabrication Engineer to support the design, CAD routing, fabrication, and assembly of propulsion system plumbing and associated ground and flight hardware. This role will be responsible for generating and maintaining plumbing layouts and detailed manufacturing drawings using industry-standard CAD tools, while also supporting welding, assembly, and facility readiness activities in execution of propulsion hardware builds. Depending on experience, the position may be filled at the junior engineer or engineer level and will operate within the propulsion engineering organization, contributing to both dedicated fabrication efforts and broader propulsion system development and test activities.

Responsibilities:
  • Design and route propulsion system plumbing, including tubing, fittings, brackets, and interfaces
  • Generate and maintain detailed CAD models, drawings, and build documentation to support fabrication and assembly
  • Design and implement welding fixtures and support development and execution of welding procedures, process controls, and inspection practices
  • Provide engineering oversight of fabrication, welding, assembly, and integration activities for propulsion hardware
  • Assist with propulsion system assembly, checkout, and integration for ground test and flight hardware
  • Support anomaly resolution and rework activities associated with plumbing and fabricated hardware
  • Contribute to general propulsion engineering tasks as required, supporting system build, test, and operations efforts
Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering discipline
    • Junior Engineer level: Bachelor’s degree (0–1 years of relevant experience)
    • Engineer level: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree
  • Experience or demonstrated capability in CAD-based mechanical design and detailing (CREO, SolidWorks, or similar), including fabrication drawings
  • Working understanding of fluid or pressure systems, including tubing, fittings, and basic propulsion or pressurization concepts, or demonstrated ability to learn in a flight hardware environment
  • Ability and willingness to work hands-on in a lab or shop environment in support of hardware fabrication and assembly
  • Strong attention to detail, configuration control, and safety in execution of flight or test hardware
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary engineering environment and manage multiple parallel tasks
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills and alignment with Intuitive Machines core values: Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence
Preferred / Differentiating Experience:
  • Experience supporting aerospace, propulsion, pressure systems, or test hardware
  • Exposure to propulsion system integration, ground testing, or launch operations
  • Experience with welding processes, procedures, or inspection (hands-on or oversight)
  • Familiarity with manufacturing workflows, travelers, or build records
  • Experience using CREO or other CAD software for mechanical design
  • Experience working closely with technicians, welders, or fabrication personnel
EEOC Statement

Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.