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Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

JetZero

Propulsion Architect

Long Beach, CA

The Propulsion Architect will combine engineering management, supplier engagement, strategy, business development, and a strong technical background in propulsion airframe integration. You'll be ...

Firefly Aerospace

Director, Propulsion Engineering

TX · On-site

About the Role The Propulsion Director provides technical and organizational leadership for the design, development, test, qualification, and operation of propulsion systems across Firefly's launch ...

Astranis

Propulsion Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Propulsion Engineer As a Propulsion Engineer at Astranis, you will design, evaluate, and test in-space propulsion components and systems. You must have a strong background in the fundamentals of ...

JetZero

Propulsion Architect

Long Beach, CA · On-site

The Propulsion Architect will combine engineering management, supplier engagement, strategy, business development, and a strong technical background in propulsion airframe integration. You'll be ...

Tuskegee University

Position Information Position Title Propulsion Engineer Status Full Time Job Summary NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Propulsion Engineer to support the ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in Houston Texas - No remote is available * Serve as the Chemical Propulsion Refueling Lead acting as the ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Design, build, and test propulsion fluid systems, including feed systems, tank pressurization, propellant management, and associated fluid components * Take ownership of propulsion subsystem ...

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$150K - $230K/yr

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 ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Dallas, TX

$150K - $230K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsPropulsion Jobs

Propulsion information

See salary details

$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 propulsion engineers?

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 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.

More about Propulsion jobs
What cities are hiring for Propulsion jobs? Cities with the most Propulsion job openings:
What states have the most Propulsion jobs? States with the most job openings for Propulsion jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion jobs are:
Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer

Momentus Space LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

OUR COMPANY
As an early mover in the in-space transportation and infrastructure services, Momentus is at the forefront of the commercialization of space. With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system.
OUR PEOPLE
Daring problems require daring solutions. We boldly charge into uncharted territory knowing that no matter the outcome we will benefit from the journey and move closer to our goals no matter what. Our teams know that working at Momentus means more than building innovative technology, it means creating entirely new markets in the space economy. We are level-headed, business-minded strategic thinkers intent on providing immediate value to our customers today while simultaneously preparing for the vast possibilities of the future. If this sounds like you, we should talk.
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer with a strong hands-on background in spacecraft hardware and propulsion system development. This hybrid role blends mechanical design, propulsion assembly and testing, spacecraft layout/architecture, and cross-functional collaboration across thermal, structural analysis, and manufacturing teams-with a strong emphasis on AIT execution and spacecraft hardware integration. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, hardware-focused environments and enjoys working from concept through fabrication, test, and flight.
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute hands-on assembly and testing of propulsion systems, including tubing, heaters, sensors, valves, and other fluid-system hardware.
  • Develop 3D CAD models, detailed part/assembly drawings, tolerance analyses, and integrated layouts optimized for tightly constrained spacecraft environments.
  • Design spacecraft hardware such as brackets, enclosures, fluid-routing solutions, thermal/mechanical interfaces, and structural components.
  • Generate models, documentation packages, and work instructions to support AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) for propulsion and spacecraft mechanical hardware.
  • Collaborate closely with structural, thermal, analysis, and manufacturing teams to iterate designs through the full engineering lifecycle-from early concepts to flight-ready hardware.
  • Support propulsion and mechanical test campaigns, including setup, execution, data review, troubleshooting, and documentation.
  • Apply aerospace standards-including range safety guidelines and RPUG requirements-to ensure compliance, safety, and mission success.
  • Contribute to process development, continuous improvement, and flight-readiness maturation for mechanical and propulsion subsystems.

Desired Skills & Experience
  • Hands-on experience with propulsion system build-up and testing, including fluid systems, heaters, wiring/sensors, or valve integration.
  • Mechanical design proficiency using modern CAD tools; experience with GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and drawing release workflows.
  • Familiarity with spacecraft packaging constraints, tight-tolerance interfaces, and multidisciplinary integration challenges.
  • Working understanding of propulsion-system fundamentals, thermal behavior, or fluid dynamics is a plus.
  • Knowledge of aerospace standards (range safety, RPUG, etc.) or prior experience working with flight hardware.
  • Strong documentation skills and the ability to produce clear, concise technical communication.
  • Effective collaborator in hands-on, cross-functional engineering environments; capable of taking hardware from bench to flight.

Education & Work Experience
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. 3+ years relevant experience.
  • 3 to 5 years of on-the-job engineering experience.
  • Desire to contribute to a highly hands-on engineering setting involving design, integration, testing, and flight hardware ownership.

Compensation:
Annual Base Salary Range: $130,000 - $170,000/per year
Base pay is one part of our total compensation package (base+bonus+equity) and is determined within a range. Your actual base salary will be determined on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Our benefit plans include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k retirement plan, short and long term disability and life insurance. We also offer flexible PTO, along with 11 paid holidays, sick time and paid parental leave.
This is a full-time position in San Jose, California. This position requires access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, and services. U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3) is required.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
To all recruitment agencies: Momentus does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our employees or any company email. Momentus will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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