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Propulsion System Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Communicate regularly through oral presentations and written reports to Chief Engineers, COEs, Component Engineers and others including Propulsion Systems management. Basic Qualifications: * Bachelor ...

Lead and coordinate propulsion system validation across development, launch, and production phases for ICE, hybrid, and BEV programs. * Serve as the central integration lead aligning engineering ...

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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.
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Propulsion System Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Propulsion System Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Propulsion System Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Systems Engineer - Senior - JP4323

Systems Engineer - Senior - JP4323

Detroit Engineered Products

Auburn Hills, MI โ€ข On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Design System Engineer
The Design Systems Engineer is responsible for coordinating the technical aspects of base engine design to achieve customer requirements, functional objectives, and quality targets. Scope of work includes base engine design and testing.
Responsibilities Include but not limited to:
  • Coordinate with Engineering, Family Manager, Purchasing and other support teams to develop resource development timelines, validation requirements including coordination of testing plans for efficient optimization of testing resources.
  • Provide guidance to release engineers to develop design quality documents with appropriate oversight and approvals from technical experts.
  • Provide guidance to release engineers to develop validation timelines and coordinate with Family Manager and Test teams as appropriate.
  • Attend and participate in Technical Review sessions. Provide guidance to release engineers to develop objective scorecard summary recommendations.
  • Provide guidance and direction to propulsion system team members including transmission, driveline, calibration, and other teams with onsite and virtual real-time feedback.
  • Support onsite dynamometer triage, test cell setup, and dyno support to quickly and effectively troubleshoot and root cause test cell and engine issues.
  • Support onsite part failure resolution, root cause analysis, and task force leadership for issues observed in dyno cells, teardowns, builds, etc.
  • Track validation status for engine phases and escalate any concerns with timing.
  • Chair engine teardowns
  • Manage/author engine build documentation
  • Interact with software, controls, and calibration teams to ensure deliverables are on time and escalate any issues.
  • Call, manage, and lead task force meetings to resolve open issues related to hardware with interactions between calibration and controls.
  • Prepare high quality presentations to report out on design or hardware issues, functional indicators, and other technical program topics.
  • Work closely with PS engineering teams and design team.
  • Gather and seeking clarification of all information required to perform requested design study and engineering change notice work.
  • Will need to use all Company based systems.
  • Be fully responsible for the quality and schedule of all deliverables to Company for assigned projects.
  • Be fully responsible for communicating if design issues are found as well as providing any additional supporting information to Company.
  • Document company's acceptance of satisfactory completion of all requested design services.
  • Provide updates and reports to company on progress of assigned work.
  • Close the loop with management on all issues.
  • Explore new ways of value addition to company.

Additional DSE responsibilities include but not limited to:
  • Key contributor for execution and compliance to the company Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP) for an assigned engine program with responsibility to summarize all technical inputs for recommendation and presentation to executive leadership.
  • Critical approver for all technical decisions, timing plans, change notifications (CN's), bulletins, engine build books and service manuals.
  • Responsible for approval and execution of complete engine mechanical development/validation plan for all project phases.
  • Key point of contact within company for all engine related issues for assigned projects.
  • Lead global cross functional teams from various department with expertise in various technical domains thru root cause analysis of issues and implementation of robust solutions.
  • Lead Design System Engineers (DSE's), Release Engineers (DRE's) and designers within the engine team in meeting program. objectives for assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components with respect to cost, weight, performance, quality, manufacturing, timing, etc.
  • Lead cost reduction initiatives including supplier resourcing risk assessments.
  • Accountable to ensure adherence for successfully achieving all project commitments.