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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Up to 30% within continental United States) Our client is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to support the NOVASTAR program. This position will support a broad range of work involving the guidance ...

New

Up to 30% within continental United States) Our client is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to support the NOVASTAR program. This position will support a broad range of work involving the guidance ...

New

Up to 30% within continental United States) Our client is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to support the NOVASTAR program. This position will support a broad range of work involving the guidance ...

New

$121K - $167K/yr

MTSI is seeking a Senior Weapon Systems Integration Engineer to support an advanced air platform ... propulsion, mission systems, stores integration, and embedded software. You will evaluate design ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Propulsion Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$29K

$125.5K

$190.9K

How much do senior propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior propulsion engineer in Ohio is $125,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,800.00 and $148,800.00 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.
Infographic showing various Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings in Ohio 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 $125,513 per year, or $60.3 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Beavercreek, OH • On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

MTSI is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to serve as a consultant to our customers in the USAF. This position will support a broader pool of work involving the guidance, navigation, propulsion, control, SW modeling and simulation of rocket propelled aerospace vehicles. The incumbent will be responsible for addressing our customer's inquiries regarding propulsion systems entailing liquid rocket engines and solid rocket motors.
Additionally, the incumbent will be expected to formally handle these inquiries via technical reporting stemming from professional experience, background research, professional databases on propulsion, rudimentary design analyses and other technical resources. The incumbent must be able to work autonomously with little guidance; on occasion, the incumbent must also be able to contribute to collaborative reporting to our customers.
Minimum Qualifications, Experience and Skills:
  • A bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering from an ABET accredited university
  • 5 or more years of demonstrable experience concerning the design, testing or evaluation of either propulsion systems or fluid mechanical systems
  • Formal education or training with the following propulsive topics: thermodynamics with emphasis on thermal and chemical equilibrium, stoichiometry, quasi 1D/2D compressible flow, basic design theory of rocket nozzles, structural mechanics, and classical mechanics.
  • Demonstrable proficiency with scientific computing for mechanical or aerospace engineering analyses with a capable language (ex. C, C++, Fortran, Python, MATLAB etc.)
  • TS/SCI Eligibility

Preferred Qualifications, Experience and Skills:
  • A master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering from an ABET accredited university with an emphasis on chemical rocket propulsion
  • Recent TS/SCI eligibility
  • 8 or more years of professional experience with the design, testing or evaluation of propulsion systems with an emphasis on either liquid rocket engines or solid rocket motors
  • Professional experience utilizing propulsive databases maintained by JANNAF
  • Proven capability working with engineering software to analyze the performance of chemical propellants (ex. NASA's Chemical Equilibrium Analysis [CEA])
  • Professional experience applying the following propulsive and fluid mechanical topics:
  • Fluid-mechanical measurement apparatuses (ex. pressure transducers, flow meters, thermocouples etc.)
  • Combustion of liquid and solid propellants
  • Performance analysis of chemical propellants
  • For solid rocket motors: igniter design, propellant grain design, and structural analysis of propellant grains and rocket cases
  • For liquid engines: interpreting flow diagrams of propulsive circuits, injector design, feed systems, coolant systems, identification/handling of pressures losses
  • Professional experience collaborating with other engineers on the assessment of the total vehicle performance w.r.t. each subsystem

Other Requirements:
  • Willingness to relocate to Dayton, Ohio

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