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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Estes Industries

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Penrose, CO · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Senior Propulsion Engineer About Estes Industries For more than 65 years, Estes Industries has been a leader in small solid-propellant rocket motors, with more than 500 million motors flown. Estes ...

Estes Industries

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Penrose, CO · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

Senior Propulsion Engineer About Estes Industries For more than 65 years, Estes Industries has been a leader in small solid-propellant rocket motors, with more than 500 million motors flown. Estes ...

Castelion

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Senior Propulsion Engineer Rio Rancho, New Mexico, United States About the Job Castelion is bringing a new approach to defense development and production: one that focuses on short, iterative design ...

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Plasma Processes LLC

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Rubicon Space Systems Senior Propulsion Engineer (Step II) Position Summary The Senior Propulsion Engineer (Step II) is accountable for the execution, quality, and on-schedule delivery of engineering ...

Castelion

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Senior Propulsion Engineer Rio Rancho, New Mexico, United States About the Job Castelion is bringing a new approach to defense development and production: one that focuses on short, iterative design ...

New

Vast

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

$106K - $145K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior Propulsion Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 Engineering, to create the world's highest performing engine for small launchers, while optimizing for ...

Next Matter

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Senior Propulsion Engineer The Senior Propulsion Engineer's primary responsibility is the design of solid rocket motor primary and secondary structures, along with propulsion components, with an ...

Vast

Propulsion Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$112K - $159K/yr

Vast is looking for a Propulsion Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Haven-1 propulsion , to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

TRC Talent Solutions

Propulsion Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA · On-site +1

$69.75 - $75/hr

TRC is working alongside a nimble firm in the aerospace arena that is seeking a Sr Propulsion Engineer to help a small team of engineers advance novel concepts for high-speed flight research through ...

Industrious Ventures

$120 - $190/hr

The Senior Propulsion Engineer for Voyager Lunar Systems is responsible for designing, building, testing, and operating propulsion systems for spacecraft including lunar landers. The position reports ...

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Senior Propulsion Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior propulsion engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior propulsion engineer?

Senior Propulsion Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and oversee the performance of propulsion systems, such as jet engines, rocket engines, or other mechanical systems that generate thrust for vehicles like aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. They lead engineering teams, manage complex projects, and ensure that propulsion systems meet safety, efficiency, and performance standards. These engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, troubleshoot technical issues, and often mentor junior engineers while staying updated on the latest advancements in propulsion technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior propulsion engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Propulsion Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of propulsion systems, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering, often supplemented by several years of industry experience. Familiarity with simulation software (such as ANSYS or MATLAB), CAD tools, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, leadership, and effective communication set outstanding engineers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for driving innovative designs, ensuring safety and performance, and leading multidisciplinary teams in complex aerospace projects.

What are some common challenges senior propulsion engineers face when leading cross-functional teams on complex projects?

Senior Propulsion Engineers often encounter challenges in aligning diverse technical teams, balancing project timelines with rigorous testing standards, and integrating propulsion systems with other subsystems. Effective communication is crucial, as these engineers must translate technical requirements between engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance groups. Additionally, they are responsible for mentoring junior engineers and ensuring that the team stays adaptable to evolving project priorities or unforeseen technical obstacles.

What is the difference between Senior Propulsion Engineer vs Propulsion Engineer?

AspectSenior Propulsion EngineerPropulsion Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Propulsion Engineering; 5+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in related engineering fields; 2-4 years experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development in aerospace or defense industriesDesign and testing of propulsion systems, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageMajor aerospace, defense, and space companiesSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Propulsion Engineer and a Propulsion Engineer lies in experience level, responsibilities, and expertise. Senior Propulsion Engineers typically lead projects, provide technical guidance, and have more extensive industry experience, while Propulsion Engineers focus on supporting design and testing tasks. Both roles are essential in aerospace and defense sectors, but the senior position requires more advanced skills and leadership capabilities.

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Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$132K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 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

Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. 

SENIOR / PRINCIPAL PROPULSION ENIGNEER

As Senior/Principal 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. You will take ownership of subsystems and engine operation, driving design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness. You will execute testing campaigns, analyze data, improve existing evaluation capability and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations.

This role demands technical expertise, strong autonomy, and the ability to align teams and projects to achieve program goals. Principal Engineers will additionally drive value to teams outside their group, influencing cross-functional efforts and contributing to the broader success of the Neutron program.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
  • Develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
  • Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
  • Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams, resolving competing priorities and ensuring alignment with program goals.
  • Mentor and guide engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
  • Work with manufacturing, testing and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs, operation, and resolve issues each part of the engine lifecycle.

Please note: This position can be hired as a Senior Propulsion Engineer I, Senior Propulsion Engineer II or Principal Propulsion Level.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER I: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
  • Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER II: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
  • Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A PRINCIPAL PROPULSION ENGINEER: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
  • Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
  • Experience with ox-rich staged combustion systems and Methyl/LOX propellants.
  • Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and hydraulics.
  • Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
  • Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production.

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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