ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Propulsion System Engineer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPropulsion System Engineer JobsPropulsion System Engineer Jobs in New York

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 New York are hiring for Propulsion System Engineer jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Propulsion System Engineer job openings:

Propulsion System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion System Engineer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Propulsion Engineer

Innovative Rocket Technologies Inc.

Hauppauge, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

iRocket (Innovative Rocket Technologies Inc.) is pioneering fully autonomous, fully reusable small launch vehicles to enable responsive, lower-cost access to space. We combine advanced propulsion, reuse, and sustainable propellant technologies to push the frontier of commercial space.

The Role:

We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join our propulsion team and contribute to the design, development, testing, and qualification of propulsion systems for our launch vehicles. You will work closely with integration, test, design, and manufacturing teams to bring propulsion systems from concept to flight readiness.

  • Support design, development, and testing of propulsion systems (e.g. liquid rocket engines, pressure-fed or pump-fed systems, component-level systems)
  • Participate in test campaigns, including planning, instrumentation, execution, and post-test analysis
  • Develop and maintain test procedures, control sequences, and configuration files for propulsion testing
  • Troubleshoot issues in propulsion subsystems (fluid, mechanical, thermal) during testing and integration
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, thermal, controls, electronics, systems) to ensure subsystem integration
  • Perform calculations and simulations to support sizing, performance prediction, and optimization
  • Support Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Failure Review Boards, and design reviews
  • Implement continuous improvements to increase test efficiency, safety, and reliability
  • Analyze test data, generate reports, and identify corrective actions

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in propulsion, test, or fluid/thermal systems development and testing
  • Familiarity with liquid or hybrid rocket engine systems, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
  • Experience with instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition, control systems
  • Proficiency with scripting or programming (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and technical specifications
  • Strong problem-solving, data analysis, and communication skills
  • Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and in a fast-paced, evolving environment
  • Experience with cryogenic fluids, high-pressure systems, or oxidizer/fuel systems
  • Experience with CAD, simulation tools (CFD, thermodynamics, structural), or propulsion modeling
  • Familiarity with propulsion test stands, plumbing, valve systems, or turbomachinery
  • Experience in space, launch vehicle, or high-reliability systems
  • Experience in formal test planning, instrumentation, and control software

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Wellness Resources

Apply