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Propulsion System Engineer Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer, Aerospace - LiquidPiston This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per ... Define system requirements, technical roadmaps, and development milestones for advanced propulsion ...

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Propulsion System Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Propulsion System Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion System Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and knowledge of propulsion system regulations or certifications (such as those from SAE or FAA) are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and project management abilities set outstanding engineers apart in collaborative and high-stakes environments. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and operation of propulsion systems in complex aerospace projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Propulsion System Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Propulsion System Engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating complex mechanical, electrical, and software components while ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency. These challenges can be addressed by collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, conducting rigorous simulation and testing, and staying current with industry standards and technological advancements. Clear communication and adaptability are key, as project requirements and technologies may evolve rapidly. Additionally, effective troubleshooting and problem-solving skills are essential for addressing unexpected issues during development and testing phases.

What is the difference between Propulsion System Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPropulsion System EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test propulsion systems for aerospace or automotive industriesDesign, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and space sectorsBroadly used in automotive, manufacturing, energy, and aerospace sectors

The Propulsion System Engineer specializes in designing and testing propulsion components, often within aerospace and defense industries, requiring specific knowledge of propulsion systems. Mechanical Engineers have a broader focus on mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Propulsion System Engineers focus more on propulsion-specific design and testing, whereas Mechanical Engineers work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

What are Propulsion System Engineers?

Propulsion System Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain systems that propel vehicles, such as rockets, airplanes, or spacecraft. They work with various types of engines, including jet, rocket, and other advanced propulsion technologies, to ensure efficient and safe performance. Their responsibilities often include analyzing system requirements, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to optimize propulsion systems for specific missions or vehicles. They play a crucial role in the aerospace, automotive, and defense industries.
Infographic showing various Propulsion System Engineer job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Emulation Engineer

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 163 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

Brief Description:

Department 489 is part of the Integrated Power Systems (IPS) Directorate which is responsible for developing the COLUMBIA Class (CLB) state-of-the-art electric drive propulsion system.  D489 is responsible for the development and construction support of the electric drive system (drives, controls, and power distribution). 

General Description:

In support of electric drive design efforts, D489 has an Emulation Lab that manages the computer systems which are used to aid testing of components of the electric drive propulsion system. The Emulation Lab hardware runs in real-time to mimic propulsion system performance.  The real-time control logic uses MATLAB/Simulink models to emulate the propulsion system components that are not physically present at the test or to emulate real world environment conditions for testing purposes.  The Emulation Lab also has support computer systems used developing, upgrading and testing of the real time systems.

The Role:

This role involves working cooperatively with customers and support departments while being responsible for execution and oversight of the Emulation computer systems. 

  • In lab testing and troubleshooting of the RTPE and LTE systems to verify proper operation before deployment to test locations. Work on computer systems is mostly in a lab environment though sometimes in an industrial setting. 
  • Integration and test of propulsion system model upgrades running in real-time.
  • Support hardware (HW) and software (SW) identification, selection and procurement efforts in response to component obsolescence and general upgrades.
  • Integration, troubleshooting and test of upgraded HW & SW.
  • Develop and maintain Emulation Lab design/upgrade documentation, requirements, and test procedures.

Required

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Computer Science
  • 0-4 years post-graduate engineering experience
  • Ability to obtain and hold a DOD Secret security clearance
  • Occasional travel may be required (~10%)

Preferred

  • Advanced degree in computer engineering or related field
  • Experience with systems engineering functions
  • Working with C/C++ code
  • Project experience with embedded systems.
  • Experience interacting with Navy customers 

  • Working with Linux OS, Windows OS.
  • Woking and debugging Real Time applications and systems.
  • Working with Matlab scripting and modeling,
  • Understand, modify and troubleshoot emulated systems.
  • Understand, develop, modify and troubleshoot low-level hand code and drivers.
  • Experience with MS products including Word, Excel, Project and PowerPoint. 
  • Strong communication skills in a technology design environment
  • Time manage multiple projects
  • Must be curious, self-driven and willing to learn

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