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Propulsion System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blue Origin

Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$121K - $169K/yr

We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture ... As a Propulsion Engineer, you will be a key member of our dynamic team, dedicated to the design ...

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Propulsion System Engineer information

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$62.5K

$122.5K

$184K

How much do propulsion system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion system engineer in the United States is $122,519.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,000.00 and $147,000.00 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.
What cities are hiring for Propulsion System Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Propulsion System Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Propulsion System Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Propulsion System Engineer jobs include:
Propulsion System Engineer jobs near you

Propulsion Engineer - Advanced Spacecraft Systems

Approach Venture LLC

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Propulsion Engineer - Develop Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion Systems
Los Angeles, CA | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a seed-stage space technology startup developing advanced spacecraft and propulsion technologies for next-generation orbital missions. As a Propulsion Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of propulsion hardware that enables high-performance spacecraft operations in demanding space environments. This is a highly hands-on engineering role with ownership across the complete development lifecycle, from system architecture and first-principles analysis through hardware design, prototype development, testing, and flight integration. You will work across propulsion, cryogenic, fluid, and thermal systems while collaborating closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver reliable, flight-ready hardware.
About Us
We are an early-stage aerospace company developing advanced spacecraft and in-space propulsion technologies for commercial and government missions. Backed by venture funding and driven by an experienced engineering team, we are building integrated propulsion and spacecraft platforms that expand the capabilities of future space missions. Engineers have broad ownership, work across disciplines, and directly influence both technical development and company growth.
Job Duties
  • Lead the architecture, design, and integration of advanced spacecraft propulsion systems.
  • Develop propulsion system layouts, component sizing, interface definitions, and system integration strategies.
  • Design and support propulsion hardware including engines, thrusters, fluid systems, and associated mechanical assemblies.
  • Support the development of cryogenic propulsion systems including fluid storage, transfer, thermal management, conditioning, and boil-off mitigation.
  • Perform propulsion, fluid, and thermal analyses to support system sizing and performance optimization.
  • Develop engineering models, simulations, and analytical tools to guide design decisions.
  • Create engineering drawings, interface documentation, assembly procedures, and qualification test plans.
  • Plan, execute, and troubleshoot propulsion and fluid system testing.
  • Analyze test data, identify root causes, and implement design improvements through iterative hardware development.
  • Lead system safety evaluations, hazard analyses, and safe operating procedures for propulsion and fluid systems.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and test engineering teams throughout product development.

Qualifications
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience designing, analyzing, building, or testing propulsion, fluid, thermal, cryogenic, or mechanical systems.
  • Experience supporting propulsion system development, integration, testing, or flight operations.
  • Strong understanding of propulsion fundamentals, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and mechanical system design.
  • Proficiency with CAD software and familiarity with machining, fabrication, and assembly practices.
  • Experience performing engineering analysis using hand calculations, Python, MATLAB, FEA, CFD, or similar engineering tools.
  • Strong mechanical design skills including GD&T, material selection, manufacturability, assembly, and testing.
  • Ability to solve complex engineering problems using first-principles thinking.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment with significant technical ownership.

Preferred Experience
  • Experience developing spacecraft propulsion systems or in-space propulsion hardware.
  • Background with cryogenic fluid systems and thermal management.
  • Experience designing or testing rocket engines, electric propulsion systems, or other advanced propulsion technologies.
  • Familiarity with propulsion system qualification, environmental testing, and integrated vehicle testing.
  • Startup or early-stage aerospace hardware development experience.
  • Experience working across multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver flight hardware.

Why Join Us
  • Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
  • Equity participation through stock options.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) program.
  • Paid time off.
  • Opportunity to own critical propulsion hardware from concept through flight.
  • Significant technical ownership alongside an experienced aerospace engineering team.
  • Career growth within a rapidly expanding seed-stage space company.

Compensation Details
$150,000 - $200,000
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