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Rocket Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Propulsion Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA · On-site +1

$69.75 - $75/hr

This Propulsion Engineer will combine deep expertise in propulsion and thermal systems with hands ... rocket, airbreathing, or advanced propulsion systems. This is a highly technical role for an ...

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Senior Propulsion Engineer will contribute to a broad range of work involving the guidance ... Address customer inquiries related to propulsion systems, including liquid rocket engines and solid ...

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Senior Propulsion Engineer will contribute to a broad range of work involving the guidance ... Address customer inquiries related to propulsion systems, including liquid rocket engines and solid ...

Interest in a variety of aerospace propulsion systems including rockets, RDREs, cold gas thrusters ... MS degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similar background * 5+ years of ...

Showing results 21-40

Rocket Propulsion Engineer information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do rocket propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket propulsion engineer 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 does a rocket propulsion engineer do?

A Rocket Propulsion Engineer designs, develops, tests, and improves propulsion systems that power rockets and spacecraft. They work with different types of propulsion technologies, such as liquid, solid, hybrid, and electric propulsion. Their responsibilities include analyzing performance, ensuring safety, and optimizing efficiency. These engineers collaborate with teams to create innovative solutions for space exploration, defense, and commercial applications.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a rocket propulsion engineer?

Rocket Propulsion Engineers spend their days designing, analyzing, and testing propulsion systems for rockets, including engines, fuel systems, and related subsystems. They collaborate closely with other engineers, such as structural and avionics specialists, to integrate propulsion solutions into the broader vehicle design. Daily tasks often involve running simulations, reviewing test data, troubleshooting technical issues, and participating in design or safety reviews. This role is usually a mix of hands-on experimental work and theoretical modeling, providing a dynamic and challenging work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the rocket propulsion engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rocket Propulsion Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with propulsion simulation software (like ANSYS or MATLAB), CAD tools, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as those from NASA or DoD are highly valued. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams are important soft skills. These attributes ensure precise design, safe testing, and innovative solutions in the highly technical and collaborative field of rocket propulsion.

More about Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Rocket Propulsion Engineer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs?

The top employers for Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Rocket Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer II

Impulse Space

Redondo Beach, CA • On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer II
Department: Propulsion
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Redondo Beach
Compensation: $110,000 - $160,000 / year
Description
As a Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer at Impulse Space, you will own all aspects of in-house propulsion system design, analysis, implementation and operation while working closely with a fast-paced, agile team that produces high-performance spacecraft from clean sheet designs.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as a Responsible Propulsion Engineer for Impulse's in-space propulsion system elements including bipropellant thrusters, valves, and pressure components
  • Conduct analysis and testing to ensure that the performance and function of hardware meets intent
  • Create and execute development, acceptance and qualification test campaigns
  • Perform on-orbit mission support including flight data reviews and anomaly resolution
  • Perform mission specific analysis and risk assessments an communicate to program stakeholders
  • Work with wide-ranging teams across engineering, manufacturing and operations to deliver a reliable, high-performance and highly integrated system
  • Resolve technical issues with innovative resourceful solutions

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or science
  • 3+ years of demonstrated experience in the aerospace propulsion field
  • Prior experience working on bipropellant rocket propulsion systems
  • Proficiency in basic principles of fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics and materials
  • Ability to perform system trades ranging from thermal-fluids analyses to materials selection
  • Hands-on experience working with fluid, mechanical, electrical and controls systems
  • Ability to operate complex test systems including vacuum pumps and vacuum chambers
  • Demonstrated ability of taking project ownership and working collaboratively with small teams

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering
  • Prior experience working in lead roles on ground test or flight propulsion systems
  • Prior experience working with in-space propulsion systems including support of preflight mission analysis and on-orbit mission operations
  • Familiarity with NASA and DoD standards regarding spaceflight propulsion specifications and standards
  • Familiarity with a fluids analysis tools such as SINDA/FLUINT, GFSSP or similar
  • Proficiency in CAD software with ability to learn new tools
  • Experience in a startup or agile development environment

Additional Requirements:
  • Flexible schedule and willing to travel as needed

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, 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.