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Rocket Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates ...

New

Peraton

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates ...

New

Stratolaunch

Deputy Lead Propulsion Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

... rocket propulsion systems as a Deputy Lead. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience, as well as leadership experience. This Propulsion Deputy Lead ...

Tuskegee University

You'll work alongside world-class engineers to push the boundaries of rocket propulsion and space transportation technologies. Essential Job Duties * Design and analyze liquid and solid propulsion ...

Impulse Space

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

$95K - $135K/yr

Description As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high ...

Impulse Space

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high-performance ...

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Rocket Propulsion information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do rocket propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket propulsion 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 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 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 is a Rocket Propulsion job?

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.

More about Rocket Propulsion jobs
What cities are hiring for Rocket Propulsion jobs? Cities with the most Rocket Propulsion job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rocket Propulsion jobs? The most popular types of Rocket Propulsion jobs are:
What states have the most Rocket Propulsion jobs? States with the most job openings for Rocket Propulsion jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rocket Propulsion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rocket Propulsion jobs are:
Rocket Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket Propulsion job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Propulsion Engineer

Propulsion Engineer

Peraton

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 210 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities
The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates propulsion technologies, performance characteristics, development trends, and operational implications of adversary and emerging systems to support national-level intelligence assessments, defense planning, and strategic decision-making.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
  • Analyze foreign missile and space propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, hybrid, and advanced propulsion concepts (e.g., dual-pulse motors, throttleable engines, staged combustion, boost-glide propulsion).
  • Assess propulsion system design, materials, manufacturing methods, performance parameters, and failure modes based on all-source intelligence.
  • Conduct technical evaluations of thrust, specific impulse, burn profiles, staging, propellants, and engine cycles to determine system capabilities and limitations.
  • Support development of missile performance models, trajectory analyses, and propulsion trade studies.
  • Identify and assess foreign technological advancements, R&D trends, and potential future propulsion capabilities.
  • Provide written intelligence products, including intelligence assessments, briefings, and technical reports for senior DoD, IC, and national leadership.
  • Collaborate with analysts, scientists, and engineers across MSIC, DIA, Combatant Commands, and Intelligence Community partners.
  • Support red-team analyses and counterproliferation assessments related to missile and space-launch propulsion technologies.
  • Participate in peer reviews and contribute to methodology development for propulsion intelligence analysis.
  • Brief technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • A Bachelor's degree with 5 years of relevant experience OR a Master's degree with 3 years of relevant experience; an additional 4 years of experience maybe considered in lieu of a degree requirement
  • Strong foundational knowledge of rocket propulsion theory and systems engineering.
  • Experience with missile, rocket, or space-launch vehicle propulsion systems, gained through government, industry, academia, or intelligence analysis.
  • Ability to analyze complex technical data and translate findings into clear, concise intelligence judgments.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Active TS/SCI with the ability to sit and pass a polygraph

This position in located on-site in Huntsville, AL.
Desired Qualifications
  • Solid Performance Program (SPP) analysis competency
  • Experience analyzing foreign or adversary missile/space systems.
  • Familiarity with intelligence analysis tradecraft and all-source methodologies.
  • Experience with propulsion modeling tools, simulations, or performance analysis software.
  • Knowledge of materials, energetics, manufacturing processes, or test infrastructure related to propulsion systems.
  • Previous DoD, Intelligence Community, FFRDC, or defense industry experience.

Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

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At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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