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Propulsion Test Engineer information

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$37.9K

$117.6K

$177.8K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in Michigan is $117,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $139,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion test engineer?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,565 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Electric Propulsion Engineer

ORBION SPACE TECHNOLOGY INC

Houghton, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description

Orbion is seeking an Electric Propulsion Engineer to assist in the development and test of new and existing satellite propulsion systems. The engineer will work with Orbion's world-class team of EP experts to design and prototype new or modified EP subsystems to improve existing product performance, as well as extend company offerings. The engineer will use their understanding of applicable plasma physics, mechanical and thermal engineering principles, and material properties, and system engineering practices to create and evaluate novel designs or troubleshoot issues. Additionally, the engineer will build and execute development and production tests and test systems for electric propulsion devices. These test systems will range from one-off development tests to fully-automated production tests. 


Exact position, title, and salary will be commensurate with experience. Multiple positions may be available. 


RESPONSIBILITIES:  

  • Create, maintain, and execute product and development roadmaps propulsion systems 
  • Develop and manage system requirements 
  • Lead and oversee technical investigations, delta-qualification efforts, continuous improvement activities, and new feature design efforts 
  • Design and execute development tests 
  • Delegate, lead, and manage junior engineers in similar tasks 
  • Collect and report on collected test data 
  • Perform other duties as assigned 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Must meet definition of a US Person 
  • Ph.D.. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics or a similar field with an Electric  Propulsion focus or equivalent experience  
  • 5 or more years' of experience with space hardware 
  • Strong hands-on space hardware development experience  
  • Excellent communication skills, technical depth, breadth, and passion to work effectively with cross functional (electrical, mechanical, software, system, test) production and development teams  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

  • Capable team and/or project manager 
  • 2 or more years' experience with flight hardware 
  • Experience with requirements management 
  • Experience with systems engineering and integration of electric propulsion systems 
  • Experience with on-orbit operations of electric propulsion systems 
  • Experience with flight qualification of propulsion systems 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Prolonged periods of standing and at times, sitting at a desk and working on a computer 
  • Must be able to lift up to 40lbs at times  
  • Manual dexterity to evaluate, install, and modify equipment       

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS: Enjoy a very competitive starting salary based on your knowledge and experience. In addition to the excitement of making monumental changes to the aerospace industry, employees enjoy a flexible work schedule, company paid health insurance, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, paid time off (vacation, paid holidays, sick days), contribution matching retirement plan, and short-term disability coverage. The position is full time and located in Houghton, MI. Relocation assistance is available.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by state or local law.

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