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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $190K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior Propulsion Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 Engineering, to create the world's highest performing engine for small launchers, while optimizing for ...

True Scout Partners

Propulsion Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion & Fuel Systems Engineer with strong FAA certification and systems safety experience to lead and coordinate the integration of advanced propulsion and fuel systems ...

CesiumAstro

Senior Propulsion Engineer I

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$140K - $168K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer I to lead the design, development, analysis, and testing of critical liquid rocket engine hardware and propulsion subsystems. This role offers the ...

CesiumAstro

Senior Propulsion Engineer I

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$140K - $168K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer I to lead the design, development, analysis, and testing of critical liquid rocket engine hardware and propulsion subsystems. This role offers the ...

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Senior Propulsion Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior propulsion engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 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 are Senior Propulsion Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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.
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What cities are hiring for Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings:
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Senior Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 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 $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Engineer, Combustion

Astro Mechanica

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies-which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system-with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We're a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We're generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
You are a Senior Propulsion Engineer experienced in designing the combustion devices within propulsion systems. You come from a background working in ground power, aviation, automotive, or rocketry. You approach your work from a robust set of first principles which enable you to work methodically through challenging technical problems with feedback from test verification.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Lead conceptual trades for novel combustors while considering system-level impacts
  • Complete detailed designs with supporting structural, thermal, and fluid analyses
  • Implement advanced materials and manufacturing techniques to achieve performance and reliability at scale
  • Assemble prototypes firsthand, design complementary tooling, and establish work instructions
  • Conduct hardware test and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics
  • Understand empirical trends and iterate quickly through component-level and integrated testing
  • Diagnose hardware problems efficiently and determine corrective actions

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:
  • 5+ years hands-on experience designing combustion devices for use in propulsion or similarly complex environments
  • Expertise in design and analysis of airbreathing combustors, igniters, and fuel systems
  • Proficient in CAD solid body and surface modeling (Siemens NX), engineering drawings, and GD&T
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid behavior
  • Hands-on prototype assembly and test stand experience
  • Experience with data acquisition and instrumentation selection for analyzing stability and performance in elevated temperate environments
  • Understanding and familiarity with high-temperature materials, coatings, and joining methods relevant to combustion
  • Experience with root-cause analysis of hardware failures
  • Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
  • Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
  • Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work

PERKS & BENEFITS:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
  • Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
  • Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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