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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Colorado (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 ...

True Anomaly

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$130K - $210K/yr

YOUR MISSION As a Senior Propulsion Development Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build, and test of multiple propulsion systems including flight systems and ground test ...

True Anomaly

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$130K - $210K/yr

YOUR MISSION As a Senior Propulsion Development Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build, and test of multiple propulsion systems including flight systems and ground test ...

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All JobsPropulsion Engineer JobsSenior Propulsion Engineer JobsSenior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Senior Propulsion Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$29.4K

$127.3K

$193.6K

How much do senior propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior propulsion engineer in Colorado is $127,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,200.00 and $150,900.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

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

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

Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings in Colorado 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, with an average salary of $127,279 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Penrose, CO • On-site

Estes Industries
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Estes Industriesexternal

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

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 serves education, hobby, industrial, defense, and government customers from its operations in Penrose, Colorado.
Position Summary
Estes Industries is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to lead the design, analysis, development, testing, and qualification of solid rocket motors and related propulsion systems. This position combines hands-on engineering with technical leadership and ownership of projects from requirements through production and flight.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead design, analysis, development, and qualification of solid rocket motors and propulsion components.
  • Translate system and customer requirements into practical engineering solutions.
  • Perform propulsion analyses and engineering trade studies to optimize performance, reliability, manufacturability, cost, and schedule.
  • Develop test plans, support static-fire and qualification testing, analyze results, and document conclusions.
  • Lead or support design reviews, failure investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions.
  • Support propulsion system development to applicable safety, performance, and customer requirements.
  • Partner with manufacturing and quality to transition designs into production and resolve technical issues.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and technicians.
  • Manage technical execution, risks, schedules, and engineering deliverables for assigned projects.
Required Qualifications
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 7+ years of relevant engineering experience, or 5+ years with an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated experience with solid rocket propulsion or solid rocket motor development.
  • Experience taking hardware through design, fabrication, testing, and evaluation.
  • Strong engineering analysis, problem-solving, and technical documentation skills.
  • Ability to independently lead complex technical work and communicate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Must be eligible, as applicable to assigned duties, to possess or have access to explosive materials in accordance with federal explosives laws and regulations, including successful completion of required ATF employee-possessor requirements and background checks.
  • Must comply with applicable federal, state, and local requirements governing energetic materials, explosives, hazardous materials, testing, storage, handling, and transportation, including applicable ATF, OSHA, and DOT requirements.
  • Must follow Estes Industries safety, security, export-control, quality, and information-protection policies and procedures.
  • Must be able to work safely in environments involving energetic materials, rocket motors, propulsion testing, and manufacturing operations and comply with required training, personal protective equipment, and site-safety procedures.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience designing and developing solid rocket motors.
  • Experience with internal ballistics, motor performance, grain design, thermal or structural analysis, or ignition systems.
  • Experience with static-fire testing, qualification, failure investigation, and production transition.
  • Familiarity with energetic materials, propellant processing, and rocket motor manufacturing.
  • Experience leading technical reviews and mentoring engineers.

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