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Rocket Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceWorks Enterprises

Propulsion Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

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 ...

Kratos Defense

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Glen Burnie, MD

$101K - $138K/yr

Our engineering team develops and launches rockets all over the world utilizing government surplus ... As a propulsion engineer, you will be responsible for the entire engineering design life cycle ...

Socket.dev

E01-M01 Senior Propulsion Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$130 - $170/hr

Up to 30% within continental United States) Our client is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to ... Basic rocket nozzle design theory * Structural mechanics * Classical mechanic * Demonstrable ...

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How much do rocket propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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.

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Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
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.

Propulsion Engineer II, Engine Systems

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

PROPULSION ENGINEER II - ARCHIMEDES ENGINE SYSTEMS

As an Engine Systems Propulsion Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. This highly technical role involves ownership of engine subsystems, test campaigns, data analysis, and refining designs for reliability and vehicle operations, while driving system architecture trades, managing interfaces, and optimizing requirements for the vehicle.

Success requires strong autonomy, technical expertise, curiosity, attention to detail, and the ability to organize complex systems into actionable plans while collaborating across teams. You will also support engine analysis, simulation, testing, and tool development, bringing deep technical acumen to solve challenging problems. As a self-starter capable of leading projects with minimal oversight, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-growing startup environment that fosters growth and innovation.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
  • Develop clear requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware that meet program milestones and flight requirements.
  • Execute engine test plans, including performance validation and reliability testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to distill learnings and adjust test planning.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving.
  • Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post-flight analysis.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PROPULSION ENGINEER II: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
  • Proven ability to conduct hotfire data reviews, identify blockers for testing, and ensure operational safety of engine systems.
  • Experience with staged combustion rocket engines and Methyl/LOX propellant systems.
  • Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and/ or fluid systems analysis.
  • Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and/or test/launch facility operations.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas

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