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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

The department is seeking to hire a Senior Engineer - Air Breathing Propulsion. What You Will Do * Apply or develop highly advanced technologies, scientific principles, theories and concepts to the ...

Senior Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The department is seeking to hire a Senior Engineer - Air Breathing Propulsion. What You Will Do * Apply or develop highly advanced technologies, scientific principles, theories and concepts to the ...

Senior Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

The department is seeking to hire a Senior Engineer - Air Breathing Propulsion. What You Will Do * Apply or develop highly advanced technologies, scientific principles, theories and concepts to the ...

Senior Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$86.80 - $165.20/hr

Senior Engineer - Air Breathing Propulsion Location: Tucson, AZ, United States - Onsite. The position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain U.S. government‑issued security clearance ...

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Senior Propulsion Engineer information

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Senior Engineer - Solid Propulsion

Raytheon

Tucson, AZ

$98K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago


RTX rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-06

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-AZ-TUCSON-M07 ~ 3292 E Hemisphere Loop ~ BLDG M07

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Ability to obtain INTERIM U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.

The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering Directorate. This Department is responsible for the full spectrum of warhead, fuzing, and propulsion designs/technology, including power systems, ignition, and all other weapon initiation safety systems technology. The department is seeking to hire a Senior Engineer – Air Breathing Propulsion.

What You Will Do

  •  Apply or develop highly advanced technologies, scientific principles, theories and concepts to the systems integration of propulsion, thrusters, controllers, software, mechanical and electrical interfaces for integration into missile systems and space vehicles. 

  • Involvement with both development and production programs across Raytheon Product Lines

  • Review manufacturing processes and problem resolution as well as working directly with subcontractors on the design and manufacturing of solid rocket motor propulsion systems

  • Work in a collaborative environment with program management in long-range program planning concerning new or projected areas of technological research and advancements and be a key spokesperson on program’s technical capabilities and future directions

  • Manage propulsion system development projects and propulsion subcontracts; review and disposition subcontract data and change requests; and oversee supplier operations

  • Develop and deliver technical presentations to management and government agencies

  • Frequently interface with the Customer to identify user needs

  • Be instrumental in obtaining new company business and act independently to uncover and resolve issues associated with the development and implementation of operational missile programs

  • Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

The Senior Engineer - Air Breathing Propulsion job is in Tucson, AZ and the position is onsite.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires a Bachelor in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 5 years of prior relevant experience.

  • Three (3) years of experience in propulsion technology and its application to solid propulsion systems

  • Experience in the development of solid propulsion systems from conceptual design through final test / assembly etc.

    The ability to obtain and maintain a US security clearance prior to the start date.

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Advanced degree

  • Eight (8) or more years of directly related experience in propulsive technology and its application to air breathing propulsion systems (turboprop, turbine, scramjet/ramjet, RDE, VFDR, fuel bladders, fuel systems)

  • Systems knowledge to assure full development of propulsion requirements and dissemination and flow down to subcomponent levels

  • Experience with highspeed combustion mechanics

  • Experience designing and developing inlet geometry

  • Experience with compressible fluid dynamics (CFD, NPSS, etc.)

  • Experience designing and developing exhaust geometry

  • Project engineering skills and experience using Earned Value Management System

  • Demonstrated success as a proposal/cost account manager as well as project/team leader

  • Demonstrated ability to develop and lead collaborative efforts with other technical disciplines including structural, thermal, aerodynamics and low observables

  • Willingness to travel, including internationally, to provide supplier support

  • Supplier collaboration experience and oversight generating specifications and statements of work (SOW)

  • Working knowledge or experience with either missile design or development, production support and integration

  • Experience with DoD customers and/or associated contractor executives and technical leadership

  • Active Secret or Top Secret Clearance (Department of Defense)

What We Offer:

  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

Learn More & Apply Now!

  • Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role. Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

#LI-ST1

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 86,800 USD - 165,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About RTX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing, it services, aerospace product and parts manufacturing and engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waltham, MA, US

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