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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA

$92K - $166K/yr

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer ... Propulsion and power generation * Combat and sensor systems * Integrated Platform Management ...

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer ... Platform systems, including power, propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary systems * Identify deficiencies ...

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer ... Platform systems, including power, propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary systems * Identify deficiencies ...

North Wind

Propulsion System Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

Propulsion System Engineer (Senior and Principal levels considered) The Propulsion System Engineer ... test. This role contributes to aerospace system design and optimization by delivering accurate ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra Aero, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Principal Systems Test Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger ... propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole ...

Electra

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Principal Systems Test Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger ... propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPropulsion Test Engineer JobsPropulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Propulsion Test Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$43.1K

$133.7K

$202.3K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in Virginia is $133,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Propulsion Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Propulsion Test Engineer job openings:
Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,728 per year, or $64.3 per hour.

Specialist, Propulsion System/Rocket Test Engineer

L3HHCM20

Culpeper, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Specialist, Propulsion / Rocket Test Engineer

Job ID: 37490

Job Location: Orange, VA

Job Schedule: Shift: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

 

Propulsion / Rocket Test Engineers work with customers, program managers and project engineers to define test objectives and identify and select test methods and instrumentation for propulsion systems / rocket motors and their components. They then create plans and procedures for safely conducting these tests, utilizing existing test facilities and equipment, and/or designing new tools or techniques. Test engineers tackle a variety of problems and use a wide range of engineering skills, from mechanical and aerospace to electrical and software. Types of tests include static rocket motor firings, case proof and burst pressure testing, case structural loads testing, direct-connect ramjet/scramjet testing, aeroheat material testing, dynamic/environmental testing, and high-altitude simulation (vacuum) testing.

Essential Functions:

Under general supervision:

  • 40% - Test Planning - Plan, devise and prepare test methods, instrumentation and tooling, applying extensive testing technical expertise. Interface with Design/Project Engineering to develop/interpret test requirements. Work with Quality and Safety to ensure test methods meet customer and government requirements/regulations. Identify/specify facility configurations to meet test requirements. Design test fixtures or identify existing test tooling to interface with test articles.
  • 30% - Test Execution - Conduct, oversee and support test operations in accordance with safety and quality policy and procedures, maintaining overall technical control of test programs. May include physical/mechanical hardware setup, instrumentation calibration and setup, electrical/controls setup, test article prep, control software input preparation, etc. May include directing subcontractors in their execution of subcontracted test programs at off-site test facilities.
  • 20% - Documentation and Reviews - Prepare technical documentation, including test procedures, safety reviews and test readiness reviews.
  • 10% - Project Management - Manage cost and schedule for test programs. Coordinate cost and schedule planning/estimates.

Qualifications:

Requires Bachelor of Science degree in appropriate discipline (Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering preferred) and minimum of 4 years of related experience, or a graduate degree and 2 years of experience.  In lieu of a degree, candidates with a minimum of 8 years of prior related experience will be considered.

Preferred Additional Skills: 

  • Active DoD clearance.
  • Knowledge of fundamental engineering principles: statics and dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics/dynamics, basic electrical theory, etc.
  • Experience with engineering software, including 3D Modeling/CAD software (Creo, NX, etc.) and analytical software (Matlab, Python, etc.).
  • Proficient use of MSOffice software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) or equivalent for generating procedures, presentations, and analysis.
  • Effective communication, both verbal and written.
  • Strength in teaming and collaboration in a diverse work environment.
  • Interpretation and compliance with Company policies and procedures, including Safety, Health & Environmental processes and procedures.
  • Related work experience in an academic or industrial lab / test environment where physical measurements are made (pressure, temperature, thrust/load, acceleration, etc.).
  • Related work experience with pneumatic and/or steam pressure systems (pipe/tubing fittings, valves, regulators, filters, and gauges).

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