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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

$86K - $122K/yr

Vast is looking for a Propulsion Test Engineer , reporting to the Propulsion Test Manager, to support the development of the propulsion systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

Vast

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$135K - $195K/yr

Vast is looking for a Propulsion Test Engineer , reporting to the Propulsion Test Manager, to support the development of the propulsion systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

Vast

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

$86K - $120K/yr

Vast is looking for an Propulsion Test Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

Impulse Space

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Propulsion Test Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location: Mojave Compensation: $110,000 - $140,000 / year Description As a Propulsion Test Engineer at ...

Heart Aerospace

Propulsion Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$124K - $216K/yr

You'll Bring These Qualifications: * 2+ years of professional experience in powertrain, propulsion, or test engineering, with electric or ideally hybrid-electric systems. * Hands-on experience ...

Heart Aerospace

Propulsion Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$124K - $216K/yr

You'll Bring These Qualifications: * 2+ years of professional experience in powertrain, propulsion, or test engineering, with electric or ideally hybrid-electric systems. * Hands-on experience ...

Divergent

Staff Propulsion Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

Purpose We're seeking a Staff Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build, and operate world-class propulsion test infrastructure that accelerates the development of next-generation turbo machinery ...

Lynk

Propulsion Test Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Lynk, you will support the testing of the Hall Effect Thrusters (HET) and other propulsion system components used on our satellites. You will be expected ...

Impulse Space

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

$110K - $140K/yr

Description As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high ...

Impulse Space

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high-performance ...

Divergent

Staff Propulsion Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

Purpose We're seeking a Staff Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build, and operate world-class propulsion test infrastructure that accelerates the development of next-generation turbo machinery ...

New

Vast

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Vast is looking for an Propulsion Test Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

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Propulsion Test Engineer information

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$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced propulsion test engineers working in aerospace or defense industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with seniority, specialized skills, and leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in propulsion systems, testing, and related engineering tools.

What does a propulsion test engineer do?

A propulsion test engineer designs, conducts, and analyzes tests on rocket engines and propulsion systems to ensure they meet performance and safety standards. They use specialized testing facilities, instrumentation, and data analysis tools to evaluate engine behavior under various conditions, often working closely with design and manufacturing teams. The role requires knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and safety protocols, and may involve certification and compliance procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Propulsion Test Engineer position, and why are they important?

A successful Propulsion Test Engineer typically holds a degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering and possesses strong analytical, troubleshooting, and hands-on technical skills. Familiarity with propulsion system instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and test software (such as LabVIEW or MATLAB), along with certifications like Six Sigma or relevant safety training, are often required. Outstanding attention to detail, communication, and teamwork skills enable effective coordination across multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities are essential to ensure safe, accurate, and efficient propulsion system testing and development in high-stakes engineering environments.

What does a Propulsion Test Engineer do?

A Propulsion Test Engineer is responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing tests of propulsion systems, such as rocket engines, jet engines, or other propulsion components. They design test setups, ensure safety protocols are followed, and collect data to evaluate performance and reliability. Their work involves collaborating with design, manufacturing, and operations teams to validate system functionality and improve designs. They also troubleshoot issues and recommend improvements based on test results. This role requires strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and hands-on experience with testing procedures and equipment.

What does a typical day look like for a Propulsion Test Engineer?

As a Propulsion Test Engineer, your day usually begins with preparing and calibrating test equipment, collaborating with engineers and technicians to review test plans, and ensuring all safety protocols are in place. During tests, you'll monitor propulsion systems, collect data, and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise. After testing, you'll analyze data, present findings to project teams, and document results to support further development. The position involves a balance of hands-on work in test facilities and desk-based analysis, often requiring close collaboration with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams.

How much does a propulsion test engineer make?

A propulsion test engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in rocket propulsion or related systems can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, and retirement plans.

What is the salary of a propulsion engineer?

The salary of a propulsion test engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace and defense industries.
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Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,885 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Propulsion Test Engineer

Vast

Mojave, CA

$86K - $122K/yr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Vast is looking for a Propulsion Test Engineer, reporting to the Propulsion Test Manager, to support the development of the propulsion systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. 

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Mojave location. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Perform thruster development, acceptance and qualification hot-fire testing
  • Lead hazardous operations including work with high pressure fluids
  • Write test procedures for hazardous operations
  • Prepare and lead Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs)
  • Work side by side with the test stand technicians during test article install and inspection
  • Maintain and design modifications to test stand fluids and electrical systems to meet current and expanding test requirements
  • Work collaboratively with Long Beach based responsible engineers to meet test requirements, design test stand modifications, and debug test stand problems rapidly

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering or related field
  • 2+ years of experience in the operation, design, and development of chemical propulsion and/or fluid systems, or hardware testing

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • Propulsion experience in collegiate rocket program
  • Experience with NX and Teamcenter
  • Experience with Epsilon3
  • Experience with JIRA / Confluence
  • Experience with controls & data acquisition systems (e.g., Beckhoff/TwinCAT, National Instruments/LabVIEW)
  • Experience building and testing high pressure fluid systems
  • Tube fitting & bending, familiarity with common industry fittings systems 
  • Read & interpret Plumbing and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
  • Ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Ability and willingness to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing work environment

Additional Requirements:

  • Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions outdoors in Mojave, CA

Pay Range: 

  • Propulsion Test Engineer I: $86,000 - $122,000 
  • Propulsion Test Engineer II: $112,000 - $155,000
  • Senior Propulsion Test Engineer: $135,000 - $195,000

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