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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

General Motors

Virtual Propulsion Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

Senior CAE Engineer Role Overview As the Senior CAE Engineer , you will be a key technical leader responsible for developing, enhancing, and deploying advanced Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE ...

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Senior Propulsion Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$28.2K

$121.8K

$185.3K

How much do senior propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior propulsion engineer in Michigan is $121,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,900.00 and $144,400.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings in Michigan 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 $121,819 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer

Michigan Wheel

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$96K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer
Location: On Site| Department: Engineering | Date: February 2025
Are you a highly skilled Marine Propulsion Engineer with expertise in hydrodynamics, CFD modeling, and propeller design? Do you thrive on solving complex engineering challenges to improve marine propulsion efficiency? If so, we want you to join our team!
About the Role
We are looking for a Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer to lead the design and analysis of high-performance marine propellers. In this role, you will apply advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods and work closely with manufacturing and testing teams to optimize propulsion system performance.
Key Responsibilities
Design and analyze marine propellers using CFD software (Star-CCM+) and numerical methods
Develop and validate computational models for propeller performance prediction
Optimize designs for efficiency, cavitation performance, and structural integrity
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are practical and producible
Provide engineering leadership and guidance to junior team members
Analyze real-world performance data to improve future designs
Evaluate structural designs of propellers, struts, and rudders using FEA (ABAQUS)
Author technical reports and present solutions to clients
What You'll Bring
Master's or Ph.D. in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related field
5+ years of experience in marine propulsion system design
Strong expertise in hydrodynamics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
Proficiency in Star-CCM+ and numerical analysis tools
Knowledge of propeller performance optimization and marine propulsion systems
Strong problem-solving, technical writing, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications (Bonus Points!)
Ph.D. in a related field
Experience with cavitation analysis and testing
Knowledge of propeller manufacturing processes
Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar languages
Experience with classification society rules (ABS, DNV, NAVSEA, etc.)
Project management experience
Work Environment
Office-based role with occasional shop floor visits
PPE required in manufacturing areas
Potential exposure to machine shop conditions (noise, metal particles, etc.)
If you're ready to take your expertise in marine propulsion engineering to the next level, apply today and be part of our innovative, high-performance team!
Apply Now!

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