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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Blue Origin

Propulsion Engineer

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

$121K - $169K/yr

As a Propulsion Engineer, you will be a key member of our dynamic team, dedicated to the design ... Develop and execute test plans for propulsion components and systems, including performance and ...

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Propulsion Test Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$32.5K

$100.8K

$152.4K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in Florida is $100,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $119,600.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Florida? For Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Florida are:
Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,798 per year, or $48.5 per hour.
Chief Engineer - Airbreathing Propulsion Test

Chief Engineer - Airbreathing Propulsion Test

Hermeus

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$138K - $247K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.

We are seeking a 1st principles driven, experienced, and owner mindset Chief Engineer to lead the design, construction, and activation of an expansion at our next-generation airbreathing propulsion test facility, HEAT, located in Jacksonville, FL. This facility expansion will play a critical role in advancing hypersonic and other advanced propulsion technologies vital to Hermeus' roadmap, national security, and aerospace innovation.
As the Chief Engineer, you will serve as the technical authority and strategic lead responsible for the end-to-end development of the test facility-from concept and requirements definition through commissioning and operational readiness. This role will require close collaboration with internal teams, external contractors, and DoD stakeholders to ensure that the facility meets current and future propulsion testing needs.
Responsibilities
  • Lead Facility Design and Architecture 
    • Oversee the conceptual and detailed design of the test facility, including the air plant, test cells, airflow systems, instrumentation, data acquisition, safety systems, and support infrastructure. 
    • Guide requirements definition and translate test objectives into engineering specifications for propulsion systems. 
  • Program and Technical Leadership
    • Serve as the principal engineering authority, ensuring technical rigor, mission alignment, and engineering excellence throughout all phases of the project. 
    • Manage and direct cross-functional engineering teams (civil, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, systems) and coordinate with external contractors and company stakeholders.
    • Support development of acquisition strategies, source selection, and contractor oversight. 
  • Stakeholder Engagement and Oversight 
    • Liaise with government customers, test customers, and internal leadership to communicate progress, mitigate risks, and ensure alignment on priorities and capabilities. 
    • Provide authoritative input into decision-making, budgeting, milestone reviews, and operational transition planning. 
  • Risk and Quality Management
    • Identify and mitigate technical risks related to performance, safety, schedule, and integration with test assets or vehicle systems. 
    • Implement quality assurance processes across engineering and construction phases.
  • Innovation and Futureproofing
    • Anticipate future propulsion test and design for scalability and modular upgrades. 
    • Evaluate emerging technologies that could enhance facility capabilities or streamline operations. 
Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace Engineering, or a related field (master's or PhD preferred). 

  • 10+ years of experience in the design, development, or operation of propulsion test facilities, aerospace infrastructure, or similar test facility/infrastructure. 

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale engineering projects involving complex systems integration and build. 

  • Deep understanding of airbreathing propulsion systems (e.g., turbojet, ramjet, scramjet, TBCC) and associated testing environments. 

  • Strong owner mindset with ability to independently execute and drive to outcomes. 

  • Familiarity with relevant safety standards, environmental standards, construction requirements, and DoD or NASA aerospace test procedures. 

  • Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. 

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Security Clearance (TS preferred). 

$138,550 - $247,250 a year

The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.

At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.

Benefits:
  • Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance
  • Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses
  • Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees
  • Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms
 
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS 
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. 120.62or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. 
 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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