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Rocket Propulsion Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sierra Lobo

$125 - $150/hr

AFRL conducts rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities. The Liquid Rocket Research Engineer will provide expert technical advisory support for a ...

Sierra Lobo, Inc.

Test Facility Lead Engineer

Edwards, CA

$103K - $136K/yr

AFRL conducts rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities. The Liquid Rocket Research Engineer will provide expert technical advisory support for a ...

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Rocket Propulsion information

See California salary details

$40.5K

$101.5K

$165.3K

How much do rocket propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket propulsion in California is $101,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rocket propulsion?

A Rocket Propulsion job involves designing, testing, and analyzing propulsion systems that power rockets and spacecraft. Engineers in this field work with liquid, solid, hybrid, or electric propulsion technologies to improve efficiency, thrust, and reliability. They collaborate with teams to develop engines, optimize fuel performance, and ensure safety in space missions. Roles in this field exist in aerospace companies, government agencies, and research institutions, contributing to advancements in space exploration and defense applications.

What are the main challenges faced in a rocket propulsion role?

Professionals in Rocket Propulsion often work on complex engineering problems that require innovative solutions to maximize efficiency, power, and safety of propulsion systems. Common challenges include managing high-temperature materials, optimizing fuel efficiency, and ensuring system reliability under extreme conditions. The role typically involves close collaboration with structural engineers, test technicians, and quality assurance teams to integrate propulsion systems into larger aerospace projects. Overcoming these challenges not only requires technical expertise, but also the ability to communicate and coordinate effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.

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

To thrive in Rocket Propulsion, you need a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, physics, and thermodynamics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree or advanced studies. Familiarity with propulsion system modeling software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and knowledge of industry standards such as those set by NASA or the Department of Defense are important. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and clear communication skills help you navigate complex technical challenges and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are essential for ensuring the safe, reliable, and innovative development of propulsion systems for spacecraft and launch vehicles.

What are popular job titles related to Rocket Propulsion jobs in California?

For Rocket Propulsion jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rocket Propulsion jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Rocket Propulsion jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Rocket Propulsion jobs?

Cities in California with the most Rocket Propulsion job openings:

Rocket Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket Propulsion job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $101,479 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Principal Propulsion Engineer, Air Vehicles (Solid Rocket Motor Integration)

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,845 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Integration team is responsible for designing and integrating advanced hardware for Group 5 air vehicles and across missile platforms. Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Engineers own the full development lifecycle, from concept generation, to integration and flight test, ensuring high-performance, resilient, and scalable mechanical systems that meet the demands of complex, contested environments.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Serve as a lead or key contributor in the selection, architecting, and integration of Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs), ignition systems, Thrust Vector Control (TVC) systems, and associated ordnance on missile platforms and air vehicles.
  • Design, fabricate, and test prototype components, structural interfaces, and thrust vectoring or ignition control systems.
  • Plan, instrument, and execute ground static fire, environmental, and integration tests of solid rocket propulsion systems.
  • Coordinate with SRM vendors, develop strategic partnerships, and manage development projects.
  • Lead or support critical hardware demonstrations with customers as needed.
  • Critical member of team supporting CAD design for structural integration, motor cases, nozzles, blast tubes, and aerodynamic / structural interfaces.
  • Travel to vendor sites, test sites and test ranges as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering.
  • 15+ years of propulsion engineering experience on tactical missiles, launch vehicles, or air vehicles.
  • Professional experience with Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs) for defense or aerospace applications.
  • Mastery of rocket internal ballistics, performance modeling, and grain design; ability to influence SRM OEM design decisions to match vehicle requirements.
  • Served as the Chief Engineer or ultimate technical authority on a major solid rocket propulsion program, defining technology roadmaps and architectural baselines.
  • Experience identifying and selecting strategic SRM suppliers, managing critical OEM relationships, and establishing qualified supply chains.
  • Experience defining comprehensive propulsion test programs (including static fire testing, environmental qualification, hazards classification, acceptance, flight-test readiness) and troubleshooting system-level anomalies.
  • Experience advising executive leadership on technical risks, representing the company to key customers / government agencies, and mentoring mid-to-senior level engineers.
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in NX / Teamcenter, Python, MATLAB.
  • Hands-on experience with solid rocket motor testing, including static fire test practices, instrumentation, and data processing.
  • Previous work experience at a Solid Rocket Motor OEM or supplier, with a deep understanding of propellant formulation, grain geometries, and nozzle performance trade-offs.
  • Knowledge and experience working with Thrust Vector Control (TVC) systems, Ignition Safety Devices (ISD / ESAD), ordnance systems, telemetry / flight termination systems, burn rate enhancers (BRE).
  • Experience tailoring and conducting sensitive munition testing.
  • Experience procuring parts and working in a machine shop. Working knowledge of machine safety and shop safety protocols.
  • Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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