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Propulsion System Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Optical Engineer III

Campus, IL · On-site

$125K - $162K/yr

Wecreate novel material systems and fabrication techniques that unlock new concepts andmission ... In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to ...

Kearney Italia, Inc.

PERL COE Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145 - $150/hr

You will analyze how components, assemblies, and systems are designed, manufactured, sourced ... Work on nationally important Aerospace & Defense, space, naval, propulsion, electronics, nuclear ...

New

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lewistown, IL · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

... systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and propulsion plants, testing and quality ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Itasca, IL · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

... systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and propulsion plants, testing and quality ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

... systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and propulsion plants, testing and quality ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rome, IL · On-site

$87K - $105K/yr

... systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and propulsion plants, testing and quality ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$99K - $119K/yr

... systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and propulsion plants, testing and quality ...

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Propulsion System Engineer information

What is a propulsion system engineer?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion system engineer?

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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Propulsion System Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Propulsion System Engineer job openings:

Propulsion System Engineer jobs near you

Powertrain Systems Engineer

Tachyon Technologies LLC

Peoria, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview:
Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Powertrain Systems Engineer to lead system-level analysis, requirement engineering, and functional decomposition for next-generation propulsion systems. The role involves working across mechanical, electrical, and software domains to define, analyze, and validate powertrain system behavior across the V-model development lifecycle. The candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams and support agile development of advanced propulsion technologies including conventional and hybrid systems.
Key responsibilities:
  • Perform powertrain system function analysis and functional decomposition for vehicle propulsion systems
  • Lead requirements elicitation, definition, and traceability from system level down to software level across the V-model lifecycle
  • Develop and maintain high-level propulsion system functional requirements using IBM DOORS / IBM DOORS Next Generation (DNG)
  • Define and document system attributes, interfaces, and requirements traceability in DNG
  • Identify, analyze, and document propulsion system operating modes and system behaviors
  • Understand and model energy conversion, storage, and delivery mechanisms in propulsion systems
  • Ensure compliance with automotive standards, including OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) requirements
  • Participate in Agile development processes, including backlog planning, sprint reviews, and risk identification
  • Develop simulation and virtual models for propulsion features/functions using MATLAB/Simulink
  • Create system architecture models using SysML tools such as IBM Rhapsody
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, calibration, validation, and hardware engineering teams
  • Support system validation, integration, and change management across the product lifecycle

Professional Skills:
  • Powertrain system engineering (conventional & hybrid propulsion systems)
  • System-level function analysis & functional decomposition
  • Requirements engineering & traceability (V-Model lifecycle)
  • IBM DOORS / DOORS Next Generation (DNG) for requirements management
  • Propulsion system operating modes definition & analysis
  • Automotive powertrain architecture & vehicle system understanding
  • Vehicle dynamics and overall vehicle behavior understanding
  • MATLAB / Simulink for simulation and virtual modeling
  • SysML / IBM Rhapsody for system modeling and architecture design
  • Automotive standards compliance (including OBD - On-Board Diagnostics)
  • Agile methodology (backlog planning, sprint participation, risk identification)
  • Cross-functional collaboration (software, calibration, validation, hardware teams)
  • Change management and vehicle development lifecycle understanding
  • Technical documentation and requirement specification development

Skills:
Powertrain systems engineering (ICE & hybrid) Requirements engineering & V-model traceability IBM DOORS / DOORS Next Generation (DNG) Vehicle dynamics & powertrain architecture MATLAB / Simulink modeling

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