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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

$166K - $250K/yr

Propulsion Engineering Manager 3 provides strategic and daytoday leadership for the Propulsion ... Provide accurate technical status, risk assessments, and resource forecasts for senior leadership.

Nuclear Engineer

Isle, MN

$97K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Litchfield, MN

$95K - $114K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hinckley, MN

$95K - $113K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hampton, MN

$100K - $120K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Ottertail, MN

$98K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Dayton, MN

$103K - $124K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lauderdale, MN

$101K - $121K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Houston, MN

$91K - $110K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lanesboro, MN

$96K - $115K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Spring Valley, MN

$98K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lakeland, MN

$101K - $122K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Medford, MN

$100K - $120K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Austin, MN

$95K - $114K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kenyon, MN

$92K - $110K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Keewatin, MN

$97K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Owatonna, MN

$99K - $119K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Elgin, MN

$96K - $115K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

$87K - $105K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Oakdale, MN

$100K - $120K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Propulsion Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$31.3K

$135.4K

$205.9K

How much do senior propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior propulsion engineer in Minnesota is $135,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,500.00 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

$166K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman is seeking Manager 3 of Propulsion Engineering to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals.

Northrop Grumman Defense Systems is seeking a highly qualified candidate with outstanding technical and leadership skills to support the Tactical Propulsion Engineering Department at the Allegany Ballistics Laboratory in Rocket Center, WV. Propulsion Engineering Manager 3 provides strategic and daytoday leadership for the Propulsion Engineering Service Group. This group delivers endtoend technical expertise across Ballistic Engineering, Analysis Engineering, System Engineering, Test Engineering, and Design Modeling. The incumbent will drive technical excellence, ensure alignment with program objectives, and foster an innovative, safetyfocused culture that delivers highperformance propulsion solutions on schedule and within budget.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Leadership & Functional Management
    • Directly supervise functional managers and oversee ~80 engineers/technicians.
    • Mentor, coach, and develop staff; conduct performance reviews and succession planning.
    • Champion a collaborative, inclusive environment that emphasizes continuous improvement.
    • Enforce adherence to safety regulations, export control requirements, and applicable aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO9001)
    • Develop and manage the annual budget for the service group (personnel, tools, external services).
    • Allocate staffing and equipment to meet project milestones; track cost performance and implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Technical Oversite
    • Set technical direction and priorities for all five subdomains (Ballistic, Analysis, System, Test, Design Modeling).
    • Ensure rigorous application of engineering standards, verification & validation (V&V) processes, and configuration management.
    • Review critical design documents, test plans, and analysis reports; approve key technical deliverables.
    • Serve as a voting member on design and testing engineering review boards.
    • Publish and disseminate lessons learned, best practices, and technical papers within the enterprise
    • Lead initiatives on advanced modeling tools, highfidelity simulations, and datadriven test methodologies
  • Program Integration
    • Provide accurate technical status, risk assessments, and resource forecasts for senior leadership.
    • Coordinate crossfunctional interfaces to resolve technical risks.
    • Partner with Program Management to translate mission requirements into propulsion system architectures.
    • Present technical briefings to customers, government agencies, and partner organizations

Basic Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Experience: Minimum 15 years of solid propulsion engineering experience, with minimum 5 years in a supervisory/leadership role
  • Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of ballistics, fluid/thermal analysis, system integration, test planning, and design modeling tools.
  • Management Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage budgets, and influence senior stakeholders
  • Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Travel: Willingness to travel up to 15% of the time for customer site visits, testing, conferences, and onsite reviews.
  • Security Clearance: Minimum Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience: Minimum 18 years of solid propulsion engineering experience, with minimum 8 years in a supervisory/leadership role
  • Prior involvement in technology transition from R&D to production.
Primary Level Salary Range: $166,700.00 - $250,100.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939