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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$190K - $290K/yr

You will lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians responsible for designing, building, and operating propulsion test stands and facilities supporting engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and ...

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Seattle, WA

$190K - $290K/yr

You will lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians responsible for designing, building, and operating propulsion test stands and facilities supporting engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and ...

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Propulsion Test Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$49.5K

$153.5K

$232.2K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in Seattle, WA is $153,502.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,100.00 and $182,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,502 per year, or $73.8 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Test Engineer (R4640)

Seattle, WA • On-site

Shield AI
Software Development • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Shield AIexternal

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer to lead the planning and execution of propulsion test campaigns for the X-BAT platform. This role is responsible for end-to-end ownership of propulsion test activities-from test architecture and test stand design through execution, data analysis, and iteration - supporting a low-bypass turbofan-powered Group 5 UAV.
You will serve as the focal point for propulsion testing, ensuring test results accurately characterize engine and subsystem performance, de-risk integration, and inform flight readiness decisions. This role is hands-on, data-driven, and highly cross-functional - requiring close collaboration with propulsion engineers, design engineers, technicians, controls, airframe, and flight test teams.
What you will do in this role:
  • Own the propulsion test program from requirements through execution, data review, and test-to-flight handoff.
  • Architect, design, analyze, and build test stands and fixtures for engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and TVC-related testing.
  • Define and implement instrumentation plans, DAQ architecture, calibration methods, and test procedures.
  • Lead ground test campaigns, including performance mapping, transient response, and edge-of-envelope testing.
  • Analyze test data to validate performance, identify anomalies, and drive design or control updates.
  • Partner with propulsion REs and controls engineers to ensure test coverage closes risk against CONOPS and mission profiles.
  • Drive root cause investigations for test anomalies and implement corrective actions.
  • Author test plans, reports, and readiness reviews; represent propulsion test in design and flight readiness reviews.

Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in propulsion or engine testing in aerospace development environments.
  • Hands-on experience with engine test cells, test stand design, instrumentation, and DAQ systems.
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine engine performance, transients, and test methodologies.
  • Proficiency in Python (or similar) for data reduction, automation, and analysis workflows.
  • Experience supporting flight test readiness and test-to-flight transitions.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience testing low-bypass turbofan engines or propulsion subsystems on UAVs or tactical aircraft.
  • Familiarity with REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS, or FEA to support test interpretation and correlation.
  • Experience designing structural test fixtures, load paths, thermal management, and safety systems for hot-fire environments.
  • Background in controls integration, actuator testing (e.g., TVC), and transient characterization.
  • Experience operating in a test-driven, hardware-centric aerospace development environment.
  • M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.

#LI-MS
#LC
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

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