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Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apex

Electric Propulsion Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$121K - $165K/yr

Design electric propulsion system architecture, develop product specifications, and maintain Technical Performance Metrics (TPMs) including power and mass budgets. * Define placement and integration ...

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 ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA

$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 ...

Apex

Chemical Propulsion Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$121K - $165K/yr

About the Role Apex is seeking a Chemical Propulsion Engineer to join our closely integrated team, driving the development of our chemical propulsion systems to meet the requirements of our ...

Lockheed Martin

Propulsion Engineer

Littleton, CO · On-site

In this role you will support the engineering team by performing preliminary and detailed level electric propulsion component and system design, development, and integration for flight as well as ...

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Propulsion information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 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.
Electric Propulsion Engineer

Electric Propulsion Engineer

Apex

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$121K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
About the Role
Apex is seeking an Electric Propulsion Engineer to join our closely integrated team, driving the development of our propulsion systems to meet the requirements of our spacecraft bus. You will have the opportunity to approach this from a clean-sheet design, guiding propulsion system architecture, integration, and testing to ensure optimal performance.
Responsibilities:
  • Design electric propulsion system architecture, develop product specifications, and maintain Technical Performance Metrics (TPMs) including power and mass budgets.
  • Define placement and integration of an electric propulsion system architecture
  • Documenting and maintaining detailed work instructions, process flow diagrams, assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) procedures for manufacturing operations.
  • Establish engine degradation model, perform filtration analysis, and demonstrate compliance to dedicated propulsion budgets (leak, power, thermal, etc.)
  • Design high pressure fluidic systems, fluid system instrumentation, and control components (i.e. tanks, regulators, pressure transducers, thermocouples, solenoid valves, etc.)
  • Develop qualification and acceptance test plans and support said tests per approved procedures. Testing includes environmental testing such as vibration, shock, and TVAC.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate propulsion systems with other subsystems (e.g., electrical, thermal, structure).
  • Troubleshoot anomalies that arise during manufacturing, lead investigation efforts, and ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) approaches are followed during all stages of development
  • Directly interface with customer/supplier relationships, conduct analyses, and provide support (either virtual or onsite) as necessary.
  • Decompose SSCMAN 91-710 document into Requirements Verification Matrix (RVM), tailor requirements as necessary, and conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) for internal personnel and facility safety.
  • Conduct trade studies for electric propulsion components and suppliers, work with supply chain on quotation process, and manage vendors in the supply chain.
  • Contribute to proposals and business development efforts as needed.

Requirements:
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electric propulsion, or other aerospace-related engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of propulsion design and test experience
  • Experience with handling and testing pressurized systems
  • Strong knowledge of propulsion, spacecraft systems, and range safety (SSCMAN 91-710) requirements.
  • Ability to decompose supplier ICDs and communicate requirements to responsible engineering disciplines
  • Demonstrated history of designing fluidic systems, fluid system instrumentation, and control components (i.e. tanks, regulators, pressure transducers, thermocouples, solenoid valves, etc.)
  • Experience with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks)
  • Working knowledge for manufacturing in a clean environment and following AS9100 protocols

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's in mechanical, electric propulsion, or other aerospace-related engineering discipline
  • Experience operating leak, burst, proof test facilities
  • Experience leading an electric propulsion hot-fire test campaign including (high-voltage power and fluid delivery systems for ground test, data acquisition systems, thrust stands, and plasma diagnostics, are a plus).
  • Experience with electric propulsion operations in space

Why Join Apex?
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.
What We Offer For Full-time Employees:
  • Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
  • Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
  • Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
  • Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
  • Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
  • Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
  • World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
  • Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

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