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Propulsion System Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Service Engineer, Propulsion

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Field Service Engineer - Propulsion, you will support our customers by performing maintenance ... Troubleshoot mechanical and hydraulic systems and identify root causes of equipment failures.

Senior Principal Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Houston, TX

$119K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience in development of solid propulsion systems. Qualifications We Prefer: Twelve (12) or ... Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum ...

Propulsion Staff Engineer - Thruster Systems

Houston, TX · On-site

$145K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Posting/External Job Title Propulsion Staff Engineer - Thruster Systems Location Houston, TX 77058 ... Serve as a subject matter expert in thruster design, providing technical authority on system ...

Propulsion Staff Engineer - Thruster Systems

Houston, TX · On-site

$145K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Posting/External Job Title Propulsion Staff Engineer - Thruster Systems Location Houston, TX 77058 ... Serve as a subject matter expert in thruster design, providing technical authority on system ...

Sr. Propulsion Engineer (5 positions)

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Systems engineering experience focusing on generating engine balances, engine sizing and ... Knowledge of standard aerospace materials used in designs of propulsion systems for high mechanical ...

Sr. Propulsion Engineer (5 positions)

Houston, TX

$99K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Systems engineering experience focusing on generating engine balances, engine sizing and ... Knowledge of standard aerospace materials used in designs of propulsion systems for high mechanical ...

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen/Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Extensive knowledge in component and system certification and the impacts of component design and operating ...

Showing results 21-40

Propulsion System Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$59.7K

$117K

$175.7K

How much do propulsion system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion system engineer in Houston, TX is $117,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $140,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Service Engineer, Propulsion

Wärtsilä

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Business Unit Parts and Field Service is a global organization with harmonized ways of working and tools to deliver the best possible services for our customers. In our global team we value, respect, and embrace different opinions and diversity. Safety, environment, and wellbeing are our foundation, and we never compromise them.
We are now looking for a Field Service Engineer - Propulsion to join our Parts & Field Service team working for a better future.
The position is permanent, and the preferred location is USA or Canada.
What You Will Be Doing?
As a Field Service Engineer - Propulsion, you will support our customers by performing maintenance, repairs, inspections, and troubleshooting activities on marine propulsion systems. Working independently and as part of a field service team, you will deliver technical expertise on-site while ensuring work is carried out safely, efficiently, and in accordance with Wartsila standards.
This position reports to the Field Service Resources Coordinator.
Responsibilities
  • Perform field service, maintenance, repair, and overhaul activities on marine propulsion equipment.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and hydraulic systems and identify root causes of equipment failures.
  • Lead assigned service teams during on-site assignments.
  • Coordinate service activities directly with customers and site representatives.
  • Provide detailed service documentation, reports, measurements, and recommendations.
  • Monitor and communicate work progress to customers and internal stakeholders.
  • Track labor hours, spare parts usage, and service-related documentation.
  • Perform technical inspections and site audits as required.
  • Ensure compliance with Wartsila Quality, Health, Safety and Environmental (QHSE) requirements and customer procedures.
  • Promote Wartsila services, upgrades, and solutions when relevant.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to improve safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Required Qualifications
Education
  • Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or equivalent technical experience.

Experience
  • Experience servicing, maintaining, and troubleshooting marine propulsion equipment.
  • Experience working in customer-facing field service environments.

Skills
  • Strong mechanical and hydraulic troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to interpret technical documentation and specifications.
  • Strong communication and reporting skills.
  • Fluent English, written and spoken.

Other Requirements
  • Safety-first mindset and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to work onboard vessels, in shipyards, workshops, offshore sites, and other industrial environments.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including climbing, lifting, bending, kneeling, and working in confined spaces when required.
  • Willingness to travel extensively, both domestically and internationally.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience leading service activities in complex marine environments.
  • Exposure to propulsion system commissioning, major overhauls, or drydock projects.
  • Familiarity with OEM marine propulsion technologies and service practices.
  • Knowledge of electrical and automation systems.
  • Experience working with international customers and multicultural teams.

Personal Attributes
  • Customer-focused and solution-oriented approach.
  • Strong ownership mindset and ability to work independently.
  • Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills.
  • Comfortable operating in dynamic environments where schedules and priorities may change.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This role involves work in shipyards, workshops, onboard vessels, offshore locations, and customer sites.
Engineers may be exposed to varying weather conditions, elevated noise levels, moving mechanical equipment, electrical and hydraulic systems, high places, confined spaces, dust, fumes, and other industrial hazards.
Successful candidates should be comfortable performing hands-on technical work, including climbing, lifting, carrying equipment, bending, kneeling, standing for extended periods, and safely operating within demanding industrial and marine environments.
Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals in accordance with applicable laws.
Travel Requirements
This role requires extensive domestic and international travel, including assignments onboard vessels, at shipyards, and in offshore locations. Travel is expected to be approximately 75% of the time.
For applicants that reside in CO, annual salary range is (60,000 - 80,000 USD)
For applicants that reside in CA/WA/NY, annual salary range is (63,000 - 90,000 USD)
The amounts listed are the base pay range; additional compensation may be available for this role, such as shift differentials, standby/on-call, overtime, premiums, extra shift incentives, or bonus opportunities. Eligibility to participate in: the discretionary incentive plan assigned to the level of position upon offer of employment; medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) plan and flexible spending accounts, subject to plan terms; Company-paid benefits such as life insurance, short- and long-term disability, subject to applicable waiting periods. Paid time off (PTO) is accrued on a per-pay period basis in accordance with tenure in the Company; a new hire can expect 17 days per year. Twelve (12) Company-paid holidays.
For applicants that reside in BC/ON, the annual salary wage range is (62,000 - 90,000 CAD).
Wartsila Canada offer a generous benefit package for eligible permanent roles, including but not limited to; extended medical & dental coverage, RRSP matching (employer contribution up to 7% of salary), 4 weeks of vacation (increases based on years of service with Wartsila) and 5 paid personal days per year.
Last application date: 05/09/2026
At Wärtsilä we value, respect and embrace all our differences, and are committed to diversity, inclusion and equal employment opportunities; everyone can be their true self and succeed based on their job-relevant merits and abilities.
Please note that according to Wärtsilä policy, voluntary consent for a security check may be required from candidates being considered for this position, depending on the applicable country.
This is Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. Our team of 18,300 professionals, in more than 230 locations in 77 countries, shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. Read more on www.wartsila.com.
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