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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$150K - $188K/yr

... engineering as the primary customer. This is a foundational role: you're not inheriting ... Lead development of software and hardware in the loop simulation labs. (ex. hybrid propulsion ...

$54K - $66K/yr

S. Navy submarine experience in Main Propulsion, Auxiliary Systems, or Hull, Mechanical ... May conduct tests and record data to assist with engineering evaluation or analysis. What You Must ...

$54K - $66K/yr

S. Navy submarine experience in Main Propulsion, Auxiliary Systems, or Hull, Mechanical ... May conduct tests and record data to assist with engineering evaluation or analysis. What You Must ...

Nuclear Engineer

Newport News, VA

$89K - $107K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Accomac, VA

$97K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Onancock, VA

$94K - $112K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Marshall, VA

$91K - $110K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Narrows, VA

$96K - $115K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Concord, VA

$82K - $98K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Waverly, VA

$96K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Martinsville, VA

$92K - $111K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Greenville, VA

$91K - $109K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Montclair, VA

$99K - $118K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lovettsville, VA

$98K - $118K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

$105K - $126K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pulaski, VA

$86K - $103K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Boyce, VA

$97K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Nuclear Engineer

Luray, VA

$85K - $102K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 18, 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 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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,728 per year, or $64.3 per hour.

Systems Test Manager

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

$150K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Systems Test ManagerAbout ElectraAt Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.The RoleAs our Systems Test Manager, you'll stand up and lead Electra's ground systems test and evaluation capability from scratch - building it as a service organization with engineering as the primary customer. This is a foundational role: you're not inheriting infrastructure, you're creating it. You'll own everything from instrumentation to simulation labs, and you'll carry full budget and headcount responsibility as you scale the function to meet EL9 certification milestones.What You'll DoStand up the ground systems test and evaluation capability as a service organization with engineering as the primary customer.Stand up an instrumentation capability that supports both ground and flight test.Lead development of software and hardware in the loop simulation labs. (ex. hybrid propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole; engineering flight simulators; static and dynamic structural testing)Serve as the primary contact for all ground testing and instrumentation with internal customer organizations, including budget and human resource responsibility. What You'll BringBachelors in Aerospace or related engineering degree or equivalent experience. (aerospace/electrical/mechanical preferred)10 years experience in systems ground tests and instrumentation. Preferably experience with test and evaluation at an aircraft manufacturer.Experience building test and instrument capabilities, not only operating existing capabilitiesCAA (FAA/EASA) aircraft certification experience preferredU.S. Person preferredCompensation$150,000 – $188,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits. What We OfferCompetitive salary and equity.Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.Paid winter break.401(k) with immediate vesting.Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.Free on-site parking. Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.