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Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs (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 ...

Hyundai Motor Company

Propulsion Test Engineer II

Chino, CA · On-site

$80K - $93K/yr

The Propulsion Test Engineer II would work with subject propulsion systems (i.e., internal combustion, hybrid-electric, and battery-electric) of diverse vehicle segments, utilizing in-vehicle testing ...

Blue Origin LLC

## Propulsion Test Engineer IIApplylocations: Van Horn, TXtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: R69426Application close date:Applications will be accepted on an ongoing ...

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 ...

Vast

Propulsion Test Technician

Mojave, CA · On-site

$22.87 - $32.46/hr

Work collaboratively with test engineers and test article responsible engineers from HQ ... Propulsion Test Technician I: $22.87 - $32.46 * Propulsion Test Technician II: $29.37 - $41.69

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Propulsion Test Engineer information

See salary details

$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 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.

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Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,885 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Seattle, WA • On-site

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

$190K - $290K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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 Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion test development and execution for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. This role oversees propulsion test infrastructure, engine testing, subsystem validation, and flight test support activities required to mature propulsion hardware from development through operational readiness.

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 TVC systems. This role requires strong technical leadership, operational awareness, hands-on involvement in testing activities, and the ability to rapidly solve complex technical problems in demanding test environments.

What you'll do:
  • Lead propulsion test planning and execution from component-level development through flight readiness.
  • Oversee the design, analysis, and construction of propulsion test stands, fixtures, instrumentation systems, and safety systems.
  • Support propulsion REs in defining test objectives, instrumentation strategies, and data analysis methodologies.
  • Guide teams through propulsion thermodynamic analysis, transient characterization, thermal performance evaluation, and operability validation.
  • Drive root cause investigations and rapid troubleshooting efforts during testing activities.
  • Coordinate test schedules, facility readiness, staffing, and supplier support.
  • Ensure propulsion testing aligns with vehicle-level milestones and program priorities.
  • Lead development of test processes, standards, and operational best practices.
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
  • 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development programs.
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine engine testing, instrumentation, transient response, and propulsion system integration.
  • Hands-on experience designing or operating propulsion test stands and facilities.
  • Experience leading technical teams and coordinating complex test operations.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience testing fighter-class or low-bypass turbofan propulsion systems.
  • Familiarity with Python, REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS, FEA, or propulsion performance analysis tools.
  • Experience with controls integration, TVC testing, transient characterization, or operability mapping.
  • Background in rocket propulsion testing or hot-fire development environments.
  • Experience operating in hardware-centric, test-driven aerospace organizations.
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline.
$190,000 - $290,000 a year
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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.
 
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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. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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