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Propulsion Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Reporting to the CTO, this position works on the propulsion system for the company's maneuverable spacecraft, from concept through on-orbit operation. You work on a team to complete propulsion design ...

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Be Seen First

Reporting to the CTO, this position works on the propulsion system for the company's maneuverable spacecraft, from concept through on-orbit operation. You work on a team to complete propulsion design ...

New

Senior Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full spectrum of warhead, fuzing, and ...

The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full spectrum of warhead, fuzing, and ...

The Energetics and Propulsion Department The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full ...

The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full spectrum of warhead, fuzing, and ...

Senior Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$86.80 - $165.20/hr

Senior Engineer - Air Breathing Propulsion Location: Tucson, AZ, United States - Onsite. The position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain U.S. government‑issued security clearance ...

The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full spectrum of warhead, fuzing, and ...

The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full spectrum of warhead, fuzing, and ...

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Propulsion information

See Arizona salary details

$38.2K

$95.8K

$156.1K

How much do propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion in Arizona is $95,821.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,900.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a propulsion engineer?

Propulsion engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain systems that move vehicles, such as rockets, airplanes, or ships, by generating thrust. They work with various types of propulsion systems, including jet engines, rocket engines, and other means of mechanical propulsion. Their work involves applying principles of physics and engineering to ensure efficient and reliable movement for different modes of transportation. Propulsion engineers play a critical role in the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.

What are some common challenges faced by propulsion engineers when coordinating with multidisciplinary teams?

Propulsion engineers often work closely with structural, avionics, and systems engineering teams to ensure that engine integration meets all safety and performance requirements. One common challenge is balancing propulsion system constraints with overall vehicle design, particularly when there are competing priorities or tight deadlines. Effective communication and collaboration are essential to resolve issues such as thermal management, weight distribution, and interface compatibility. Being proactive in team meetings and having a strong understanding of how propulsion systems interact with other subsystems can help engineers navigate these complexities successfully.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, propulsion analysis tools, and industry-standard simulation platforms such as ANSYS or MATLAB is often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and innovate in complex technical environments. These skills are crucial for designing, testing, and optimizing propulsion systems that meet safety, efficiency, and performance standards.

What is the difference between Propulsion vs Propulsion Engineer?

AspectPropulsionPropulsion Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in propulsion systemsEngineering degree, specialized in propulsion systems, often with experience in design and testing
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, aerospace or automotive industriesDesign, develop, and test propulsion systems in labs or on-site at aerospace or automotive companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly to refer to propulsion systems or the field of propulsionSpecific job title for professionals working on propulsion system development and testing

Propulsion refers to the overall field or systems that generate thrust, while a Propulsion Engineer is a professional specializing in designing, developing, and testing these systems within industries like aerospace and automotive. The engineer role involves hands-on work with propulsion technologies, requiring specific skills and certifications.

Are propulsion engineers in demand?

Propulsion engineers are in demand in industries such as aerospace, defense, and space exploration, where expertise in jet engines, rocket propulsion, and related systems is essential. The field offers opportunities for those with strong technical skills, engineering degrees, and experience with simulation tools and certifications. Job growth is driven by ongoing advancements in aircraft and spacecraft technology.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Propulsion jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Propulsion job openings:

Infographic showing various Propulsion job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,821 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Aerospace Propulsion Design Engineer

STEALTH RECRUITMENT AND STAFFING OR

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

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Job description

Reporting to the CTO, this position works on the propulsion system for the company’s maneuverable spacecraft, from concept through on-orbit operation. You work on a team to complete propulsion design, development, integration, and test, and carry the system through qualification, flight, and end of life. This is a hands-on role for an engineer who has taken an operational propulsion system from cradle to grave on a vehicle that has flown, and who can move from requirements and analysis through hot-fire and testing to on-orbit operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

•    Work on the propulsion system from concept through on-orbit operation, including requirements, architecture, trades, and selection of propellant, thrusters, and feed-system components.

•    Contribute to propulsion design and analysis, including thrust and delta-V budgets, feed system, tankage, propellant management, and thermal, structural, and fluid analysis.

•    Develop and execute propulsion test programs, including component, hot-fire, acceptance, and environmental testing, with test plans, procedures, and data analysis.

•    Lead integration and test of the propulsion system with the spacecraft, including proof and leak testing, qualification, and propellant loading procedures.

•    Support launch-site processing, fueling operations, and on-orbit commissioning and operations, including anomaly resolution.

•    Manage propulsion suppliers and subcontractors, and define and verify interface and acceptance requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

•    Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, or chemical engineering, or a related field.

•    Cradle-to-grave experience on the propulsion system of a satellite or space vehicle that has flown to space or operated on orbit, from concept through operation (mandatory).

•    Experience developing testing an operational propulsion system (mandatory).

•    Strong propulsion engineering fundamentals, including thrust and delta-V budgets, feed systems, propellant management, and thermal and fluid analysis.

•    Hands-on test experience, including hot-fire, component, and environmental testing, and test procedure development.

•    U.S. Citizenship (no dual citizenship) and ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

•    Experience at an in-space propulsion or orbital-transfer-vehicle company

•    Familiarity with operation and high-total-impulse maneuver.

•    Experience with propellant loading, pressure-system safety, and launch-site operations.

•    Active or recent U.S. security clearance.

Compensation: Competitive salary, full company benefits, and equity for highly qualified candidates.

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona (In-person).