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Senior Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Stoke Space

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$151K - $252K/yr

As a Senior Engines Design Engineer, you will have extreme ownership over all aspects of a components design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, and validation for an advanced reusable rocket engine ...

Stoke Space

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$151K - $252K/yr

As a Senior Engines Design Engineer, you will have extreme ownership over all aspects of a components design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, and validation for an advanced reusable rocket engine ...

Sierra Space Corporation

Propulsion Engineer I

Madison, WI · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

About the Role The Propulsion Engineer I role involves assisting in the design, development, and ... Ability to work in a team and follow instructions from senior engineers. * Clear verbal and written ...

Sierra Space Corporation

Propulsion Engineer I

Madison, WI · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

About the Role The Propulsion Engineer I role involves assisting in the design, development, and ... Ability to work in a team and follow instructions from senior engineers. * Clear verbal and written ...

Peraton

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering ... senior DoD, IC, and national leadership. * Collaborate with analysts, scientists, and engineers ...

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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 21, 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 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Senior Propulsion Engineer I

Senior Propulsion Engineer I

CesiumAstro

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$140K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.
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 opportunity to take ownership of complex flight hardware from concept development through qualification and flight readiness.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Design and develop a variety of liquid rocket engine parts, including loading frames, gimbals, bellows units, and pipelines. Perform calculations and analyses with team support.
  • Own requirements definition, architecture trades, and system-level integration for assigned subsystems.
  • Generate technical documentation, including reports, specifications, and contributions to PDRs and CDRs.
  • Perform CFD and FEA analyses to evaluate performance parameters such as pressure drops and hydraulic characteristics and mechanical integrity under operating conditions.
  • Develop and execute test programs, analyze experimental data, and apply findings to optimize designs.
  • Collaborate across mechanical, aerospace, and controls engineering teams to deliver flight-ready hardware.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 4+ years of experience with mechanical design, development, fabrication, assembly, or test.
  • Hands-on proficiency in CAD tools (Siemens NX, SolidWorks).
  • Demonstrated expertise in structural or mechanical design for flight hardware.
  • Experience in early-stage vehicle architecture and design trades.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.
  • Willing to make mistakes, take responsibilities, work independently and be transparent about your work.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Prior experience designing a variety of liquid rocket engine parts, including loading frames, gimbals, bellows units, and pipelines.
  • Practical experience in test bench setup and performance diagnostics.
  • Hands-on engineering (Full-stack: computer to wrench to broom).
  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Familiarity with aerospace safety and reliability practices.
  • Experience in a start-up or rapid development environment.
  • Experience with tools such as ANSYS and MATLAB

$140,000 - $168,000 a year
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills. Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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