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Propulsion Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stratolaunch

Propulsion Technician

Mojave, CA · On-site

Join team of technicians building and maintaining propulsion systems for hypersonic flight vehicles, including, but not limited to, liquid and hybrid rocket engines ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES * Build ...

Shield AI

Senior Propulsion Technician (R4638)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$28 - $42/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled Propulsion Technician to join our X-BAT Propulsion Engineering team, specializing in UAV propulsion systems. In this role, you will be responsible for the assembly ...

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Propulsion Technician information

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How much do propulsion technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for propulsion technician in the United States is $23.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Propulsion Technician vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectPropulsion TechnicianAircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification, specialized propulsion trainingFAA A&P certification, general aircraft maintenance training
Work EnvironmentAircraft engines, propulsion systems, aerospace facilitiesComplete aircraft systems, including engines, airframes, and avionics
Industry UsageMilitary, commercial, and private aerospace sectors focusing on propulsion systemsCommercial airlines, private aviation, and maintenance facilities

Propulsion Technicians specialize in aircraft engines and propulsion systems, often requiring specific certifications and working primarily on engines and propulsion components. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians have a broader scope, handling various aircraft systems. Both roles are essential in aviation maintenance but differ in focus and specialization.

How much does a propulsion technician make?

Propulsion technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They work in aerospace, military, or industrial settings, often requiring specialized skills in propulsion systems and safety protocols.

What is a propulsion technician?

Propulsion Technicians are skilled professionals who build, maintain, test, and repair propulsion systems, such as rocket engines, jet engines, or other devices that generate thrust for vehicles like aircraft and spacecraft. They work with complex mechanical and electronic systems to ensure engines operate safely and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include assembling propulsion components, conducting diagnostic tests, troubleshooting technical issues, and adhering to safety and quality standards. Propulsion Technicians are essential in aerospace, defense, and advanced transportation industries.

What are some typical challenges faced by a propulsion technician during engine testing and how can they be managed?

Propulsion Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected performance issues, maintaining precise safety protocols, and working under tight deadlines during engine testing. Addressing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with engineers and other team members. Staying updated with the latest diagnostic tools and adhering to standard operating procedures are key strategies for managing these situations and ensuring both safety and efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion Technician, you need a solid background in mechanical systems, propulsion theory, and troubleshooting, often supported by an associate degree or technical certification in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, engine test equipment, and maintenance management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation and maintenance of complex propulsion systems.
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Propulsion Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,993 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Propulsion Technician (Fluids Systems)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$31 - $38/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (FLUID SYSTEMS) 

Candidates should possess a combination of solid mechanical knowledge, hands-on experience and the willingness and ability to learn. The propulsion technician is responsible for assembly and testing of rocket hardware, associated sub assemblies. This is a dynamic position that requires the flexibility to work on different systems, the ability to troubleshoot anomalies, and can work autonomously to defined schedules while keeping safety and quality at the forefront of everything that is done.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Clean tools, valves, regulators and maintain a professional and neat work area
  • Stage, install, set-up, test and de-stage engines
  • Troubleshoot engines and cell systems
  • Operate test cell instrumentation and uses computer network systems, as well as test units as described in the test instruction
  • Accept or reject test units based on calculated test data and results
  • Perform work according to procedures, specifications and test instructions

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years of experience in a manufacturing, military, assembly, fabrication, aviation, or automotive environment OR certificate from an accredited trade skills program in A&P, manufacturing, and/or electronics

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience staging, installing, removing and de-staging propulsion engines
  • A&P license
  • 2+ years of experience working on aircraft or rocket engines
  • 5+ years of aerospace engines experience
  • Knowledge of pressure, temperature and flow measurement devices; mechanical and electrical systems; and/or propulsion engines
  • Strong mathematical, basic computer, problem solving and decision making skills, and strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team to meet aggressive schedules
  • Ability to operate and understand readouts on standard cell instrumentation: CRT screens, Daytronic vibration analyzer, and make full use of computer network systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed
  • Expected shift times: 1st shift (~4 AM - 2:30 PM) and 2nd shift (~2 PM - 12:30 AM)
  • Able to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Able to stand for extended periods - 8 hours min
  • Able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:  
 
Pay range:    
Level 1: $23.00 - $27.00/hour    
Level 2: $26.00 - $32.50/hour    
Level 3: $31.00 - $38.00/hour    
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. 

What SpaceX employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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