ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rocket Engine Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LiquidPiston, Inc.

Engine Design Engineer

Suffield, CT · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking talented and motivated Engine Design Engineers to join our growing team. In this role, you will be at the forefront of developing groundbreaking engine systems and ...

LiquidPiston

Engine Design Engineer

Suffield, CT · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking talented and motivated Engine Design Engineers to join our growing team. In this role, you will be at the forefront of developing groundbreaking engine systems and ...

DR Power LLP

The Staff Engine Design Engineer - Architect plays an important role in advancing the design and performance of internal combustion engines (ICE), through engine design, data-driven analysis ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAerospace Engineer JobsRocket Engine Design Engineer Jobs

Rocket Engine Design Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do rocket engine design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket engine design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a rocket engine design engineer do?

A Rocket Engine Design Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and improving rocket propulsion systems. They work on creating engines that provide the necessary thrust for rockets to launch and operate in space. This involves detailed calculations, simulations, material selection, and close collaboration with other engineering teams to ensure safety, efficiency, and performance. Their work is crucial for both government space programs and private aerospace companies, and often requires a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rocket engine design engineer?

To thrive as a Rocket Engine Design Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with expertise in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and propulsion systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and industry standards like ASME or NASA guidelines is crucial, along with experience in simulation and testing platforms. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design of rocket engines, which are critical for mission success and technological advancement.

What are some of the key challenges rocket engine design engineers face when working on new propulsion systems?

Rocket Engine Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance requirements with safety and reliability standards, meeting strict weight and material constraints, and integrating new technologies under tight development timelines. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including thermal analysts, materials scientists, and test engineers—is essential to address these complexities. Staying current with advancements in propulsion technology and regulatory changes is also important for success in this rapidly evolving field.

What are popular job titles related to Rocket Engine Design Engineer jobs?

For Rocket Engine Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rocket Engine Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Rocket Design Engineer

Niagara Falls, NY

The Maven Group, LLC
See more jobs at The Maven Group, LLCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Our 70-year-old global Aerospace & Defense client has asked The Maven Group to locate a talented Rocket Design Engineer to join a Propulsion Engineering team that continues to grow in its growing Space and Defense Group.  

The primary site for engine design and development work is at our clients Niagara Falls location. This is the preferred site for the engine design engineer. Consideration will be given to other company locations in East Aurora NY, Golden CO, Mountain View CA, Chatsworth CA, Gilbert AZ, or Huntsville AL.  Extensive travel to Niagara Falls will be required if the individual resides in one of these other sites.
This position is a direct-hire, full-time role. It includes an excellent benefits package including great medical coverage starting day one, profit sharing, a true retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, generous vacation and more.

The chosen engineer will assist in leading engine design efforts on bipropellant and/or monopropellant engine applications.  Primary applications are monopropellant and bipropellant rocket engines and propulsion systems for strategic missile, LEO, GEO and exploration missions with thrust ranges from 0.2 lbf to >500 lbf.   Our client is ideally seeking a Rocket Engine Design Engineer to cover the full product life cycle from supporting business capture through product delivery.

To be considered a viable candidate, you should possess:

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering with 10 years of in-space rocket engine design experience; MS or PhD preferred (candidates with less than 10 years’ experience will be considered based on content of past design and development experience specific to rocket engines).
  • Knowledge / expertise, and experience in, designing of rocket engines and the theory that governs their designs.
  • Previous experience using Teamcenter/NX or comparable CAD applications.
  • This position will require access to US Export Controlled Information

Apply