1

Rocket Engine Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$121K - $152K/yr

Liquid rocket engine system design and analysis, including performance predictions and packaging to meet requirements * Clean sheet design and system integration of engine components * Design ...

Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Design Engineer - Engine Systems Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States $50-55/hour Contract Opportunity * Full-time contract opportunity * Benefits begin on day one, including medical, dental, and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 11, 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, 87% Full Time, 9% 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.

Staff Engine Design Engineer - Architect

Waukesha, WI • On-site

Generac
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design engine systems and components using calculations, simulations, and design reviews.

  • Evaluate engine and system designs for performance and emissions, and interpret testing results.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to guide product development and contribute to engine workflow improvements.


Generac Power Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most.

For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future.


Ready to Power a Smarter World with us?


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, simulation, and design of system components. This position leverages Creo, Python, and advance calculation tools to optimize system behavior, improve engine design and product reliability, and increase engine performance across a range of gaseous fueled applications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design engine systems and components for using design reviews, calculations, problem solving, and simulation input to support overall engine and generator design.

  • Evaluate the engine and systems designs relative to performance and emissions.

  • Conduct system analysis using calculations to aid in optimizing the peak and reliability performance of the engine/generator.

  • Interpret testing results and collaborate with cross-functional teams through design reviews and technical discussions to guide product development.

  • Contribute to the development of engine workflows and analysis best practices to improve group efficiency and accuracy.

  • Document project objectives, methods, and results using standardized reporting formats.

  • Apply data analysis techniques, including Matlab/Simulink or Python-based scripting, and machine learning to support predictive modeling and performance forecasting.

  • Stay informed on relevant technologies, tools, and industry trends to support continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related discipline

  • 7+ years of relevant work experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Experience in an Automotive, Design, or a related engineering discipline.

  • Hands-on experience with engine and engine component design.

  • Experience in powertrain design and analysis - CREO or similar.

  • Hands-on experience with FEA as applied to engine design.

  • Broad experience in new IC engine design using Creo or equivalent.

  • Ability to create design for internal combustion engines, including cases, heads, valvetrain, rotating assembly, belt drives, exhaust systems, and intake systems.

  • History in designing, testing, and integration of complex components and evaluation of overall effectiveness, cost (including cost/benefit analysis), reliability (risk analysis), and safety.

  • Designs, develops, executes, and evaluates design, product specifications, process validation plans, and testing for a variety of complex products and/or components.

  • Ability to perform detail-oriented work with a high degree of accuracy on multiple projects.

  • Good knowledge of internal combustion engine performance design and specification.

  • Analytical and problem-solving skills, with a deep understanding of internal combustion engine design, operation, and testing.

  • Written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly interpret and present complex simulation results to technical and non-technical audiences.

  • Collaborate with internal manufacturing partners, contract manufacturers, designers, and product specialists to optimize complex and advanced designs for performance.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of internal combustion engines and effective engine design methods.

  • Experience with FEA.

  • Extensive Experience with internal combustion engine performance development and specification.

  • Demonstrated written communication and presentation skills.

  • Ability to apply engineering knowledge and experience to improve products, services and processes.

  • Data analysis and control/diagnostic feature creation skills.

  • Familiarity with systems engineering based problem solving.

  • Proven ability to work well with others as part of a diverse global team.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionallylift upto 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional Travel.

"We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law."


What Generac Power Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Generac logo

About Generac

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing and engine, turbine, and power transmission equipment manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Eagle, WI, US

Social media