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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Revolution Space

Software Test Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site +1

$106K - $195K/yr

Revolution Space is looking for an experienced dynamic and growth-oriented Software Test Engineer to contribute to the development of our space propulsion products through system verification. This ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Technician II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$24 - $48/hr

Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering teams, you will help deliver reliable, flight-ready propulsion systems supporting national security, civil ...

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 ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations ... Execute engineering tasks across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, qualification ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid ... 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 building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra Aero, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$102K - $124K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

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

$139K - $168K/yr

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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All JobsPropulsion Test Engineer JobsPropulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Washington

Propulsion Test Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$49.3K

$152.8K

$231.1K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in Washington is $152,770.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,500.00 and $181,200.00 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
Propulsion Test Engineer

Propulsion Test Engineer

Lynk

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About Lynk
Lynk is the inventor of satellite direct to standard phone technology aka sat2phone, and has the world's only commercial license from the FCC to operate a commercial sat2phone system. Today, Lynk allows mobile network operators' subscribers to send and receive text messages to and from space via standard unmodified, mobile devices. Lynk's service has been tested and proven on all seven continents, has regulatory approvals in more than 30 countries and is currently being deployed commercially based on more than 40 MNO commercial service contracts covering approximately 50 countries.
Our technology will enable all 8 billion people on the planet to stay connected with the existing standard phone in their pocket. Everywhere. No matter what.
By joining Lynk, you will have the opportunity to directly touch the lives of billions. Your mission will be to bring mobile broadband to billions, pull hundreds of millions out of poverty, and save countless lives.
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 to understand every detail of our propulsion systems, operate them during test campaigns, and evaluate their performance through analysis of test results.
Core Responsibilities
  • Develop and document HET test plans and procedures.
  • Design, develop, specify, and maintain ground support hardware and software required for HET functional, performance, and environmental testing including vacuum chambers, vacuum pumps, gas flow plumbing, high voltage power supplies, sensors, and data acquisition units.
  • Integrate propulsion fight and ground support hardware (including electronics) as required for HET verification.
  • Operate high-vacuum chambers and other support equipment required for HET testing.
  • Execute HET test plans and procedures and debug/troubleshoot issues that arise during functional, performance, and environmental testing.
  • Analyze propulsion test data using Excel, MATLAB, or similar tools.
  • Develop automated testing and data collection tools to ensure testing can be done reliably, repeatedly, and at scale in production.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation.
  • Experience using Linux based systems and programming proficiency in one or more programming languages, such as Rust, C++, C, Python, MATLAB, etc.
  • Must have good communication skills and be able to work independently as well as in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct experience with high-vacuum equipment
  • Machining skills and experience

Job Location
Chantilly, VA

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