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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Menlo Ventures

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together Your Mission As a Senior Propulsion Development Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build, and test of ...

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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 11, 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 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 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 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 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

True Anomaly

Denver, CO • On-site

$130K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.
OUR MISSION
True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors - enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.
OUR VALUES
  • Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
  • What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
  • It's the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.

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 campaigns in the development of our missile defense system. You will be a technical expert for the Propulsion team providing knowledge and mentorship to other engineers. This is an opportunity to design and develop our next generation vehicles, shaping the future of space exploration from the ground up.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Support the design, analysis, and optimization of propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites, ensuring they meet performance and reliability requirements.
  • Work propulsion and other spacecraft subsystems from concept to flight.
  • Review models and drawings from top level down to piece parts as needed.
  • Work collaboratively with structural, mechanical, thermal, and avionics teams to validate designs and ensure compliance with mission requirements.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance design efficiency, manufacturability, and system performance.
  • Present content to internal and external customers.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
  • 6+ years of professional experience in Launch or Space Vehicles.
  • Demonstrated experience with stage systems, rocket engines, flight valves, and/or detailed fluid system architecture and analysis.
  • Propulsion test experience including hot-fire or pressure testing, vehicle-level propulsion checkouts, and propellant loading.
  • Fluid system design and analysis including pressurization system sizing, water hammer analysis, pressure budgets, FMECAs, and FDIR architecture.
  • Demonstrated ability to work and lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Passion for the space industry.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 5+ years professional experience in development and production of space systems.
  • 2+ years project leadership experience.
  • Valve and/or propellant tank design, analysis, and manufacturing experience.
  • Experience in or exposure to mechanical design for propulsion systems, mechanisms, and/or optical payloads.
  • Track record of innovative problem-solving in complex mechanical designs.
  • Experience working in a startup or similarly dynamic and fast-paced environment.
  • Familiarity with full vehicle lifecycle from concept through production.

COMPENSATION
  • Base Salary: $130,000-$210,000
  • Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to maintain or obtain TS//SCI clearance
  • Work Location-while we observe a hybrid work environment, you will need to be onsite as the business needs require. On an average week, you can expect to spend at least 4 days per week in office at our GravityWorks factory in Centennial, CO.
  • Travel-employees can expect to travel up to 20% to our Long Beach factory and to vendor sites.
  • Work environment-the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
  • Physical demands-the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.

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