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Propulsion Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ursa Major is seeking a Senior Engineer, Propulsion Systems to support the technical definition, integration, and execution of propulsion systems for hypersonic vehicles. Ursa Major's teams move fast ...

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Propulsion Systems Engineer information

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$62.5K

$122.5K

$184K

How much do propulsion systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion systems 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 some typical challenges faced by Propulsion Systems Engineers when working on multi-disciplinary teams?

Propulsion Systems Engineers often collaborate with specialists in aerodynamics, structures, controls, and manufacturing, which can present challenges in aligning requirements and timelines across disciplines. Effective communication and a strong understanding of interdependencies are crucial to ensure propulsion components integrate seamlessly with the overall vehicle. Engineers may need to balance performance goals with constraints such as weight, cost, and manufacturability, requiring adaptability and problem-solving skills. Building strong relationships with colleagues in other departments can greatly facilitate project success and personal growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Propulsion Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with propulsion modeling software (such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or Simulink), CAD systems, and industry certifications like EIT or PE are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for designing, analyzing, and optimizing propulsion systems that meet safety, efficiency, and performance standards in demanding engineering environments.

What does a Propulsion Systems Engineer do?

A Propulsion Systems Engineer designs, analyzes, and tests systems that provide thrust for vehicles such as rockets, airplanes, and spacecraft. Their work involves selecting and integrating engines, fuel systems, and related components to ensure efficient and reliable propulsion. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize performance, address technical challenges, and meet safety and regulatory standards. This role requires a strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science.

What is the difference between Propulsion Systems Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPropulsion Systems EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion Engineering; certifications varyBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; professional licensure optional
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 across manufacturing, automotive, energy, and aerospace

Propulsion Systems Engineers focus on designing and testing propulsion components for aerospace and space applications, requiring specialized knowledge in propulsion systems. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, Propulsion Systems Engineers often need specific aerospace or propulsion certifications, making their expertise more specialized in propulsion technology.

More about Propulsion Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Propulsion Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Propulsion Systems Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Propulsion Systems Engineer jobs? The top employers for Propulsion Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Propulsion Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Propulsion Systems Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Propulsion Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,519 per year, or $58.9 per hour.
Propulsion Systems Manufacturing Engineer

Propulsion Systems Manufacturing Engineer

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking aย Propulsion Systems Manufacturing Engineer (ME) level II or Sr to support design, integration, testing, and maintenance of one of our carrier or hypersonic vehicles electrical and avionics systems; as a ME you will be responsible for the following:

  • Work Instructions, detailed documentation to be released to the electrical and production shop for manufacturing related information for production, testing or tooling.
    • Ability to fully define a manufacturing process step-by-step
    • Ability to identify alternate part numbers
    • Ability to produce engineering documentation following industry standards (Section Views, Detail Views, flag notes, etc.)
    • Process improvement documentation to establish production line standardization efforts
  • Experience with Propulsion Vehicle systems, system interface and integration
  • Solid rocket Motor (SRM) and Hybrid Rocket Motor (HRM) experience
  • Propulsion manufacturing processes to define company practices and preferred manufacturing methods (Shop)
    • Aerospace Industry Standards implementation
    • Desktop and Shop Aid documentation to support current workflows
  • Liaison engineering support manufacturing shop to provide technicians with sufficient support to complete the task on hand
    • Explain Propulsion manufacturing processes from Stratolaunch and Aerospace industry standards
    • Redline released engineering documentation
  • Source and support purchase of propulsion components from released engineering documentation and manufacturing related tasks for Shop support (Shop setup activities, tooling, etc.)
  • Evaluation of a broad range of technical data, interaction with different disciplines involved in the design, purchasing, manufacturing, integration, and testing of our vehicle(s).
  • Analyze and verify all the engineering requirements are met to estimate time of fabrication and producibility between the margins of cost and schedule

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Create work instructions to fabricate, install or modify propulsion systems
  • Create drawings and work instructions for tooling that supports the build phase of a production effort
  • Reference 3D CAD models and integrate into 2D environments.
  • Support the shop by acting as the engineering liaison to troubleshoot documentation issues and provide real-time support on the shop floor
  • Troubleshoot propulsion mechanical systems and ground test integration
  • Develop test plans and procedures, as required to support systems, functionality and ATP procedures
  • Support hypersonic vehicle integrated testing, as required
  • Support system design effort, as required
  • Contribute to Shop layout, set up and improvement efforts, as required
  • Regular and comprehensive communication to leadership
  • Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems
  • Travel, as needed, to support the department
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: vehicle systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, electrotechnical, flight controls for experimental aircraft and/or launch vehicle integration
  • Experience with Aerospace production documentation (drawings and work orders)
  • Experience with PDM systems, Engineering control and revision control release processes
  • Experience integrating launch vehicle or aircraft electrical power systems
  • Experience with the creation of shop work instructions
  • Familiarity with common aerospace hardware such as connectors, relays, and wire types, structures
  • Direct hands-on experience with aircraft Propulsion Systems, installation and best practices
  • Experience with solid Rocket motors (SRM) and hybrid Rocket motor (HRM)
  • Facilitation skills and ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to gain support or resolve concerns
  • Ability to work on your own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals
  • Complex aerospace system development
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
  • Willingness and ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Active security clearance

Required Skills:

  • Lab equipment: Oscilloscopes, multimeters, AC/DC power supplies, signal generators
  • Familiarity with 3D CAD
  • MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Preferred Skills:

  • Siemens Capital/Mentor Graphics
  • 3D CAD modeling experience - NX, CATIA, or Solidworks
  • LabVIEW
  • Familiarity with configuration management systems - Jira (preferred)

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Level II ($98,100-$128,700): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Sr Level ($117,000-$153,500): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Staff Level ($152,500-$200,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

Position on-site based in Mojave, CA

Travel, as needed, to support the department, travel estimated to be <5%

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