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Solid Rocket Motor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Solid Rocket Motor Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do solid rocket motor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for solid rocket motor engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solid rocket motor engineer do?

A Solid Rocket Motor Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and evaluating solid rocket propulsion systems used in missiles, spacecraft, and launch vehicles. Their work involves selecting appropriate materials, overseeing manufacturing processes, ensuring safety and reliability, and addressing performance issues. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize motor performance and may also be involved in troubleshooting, failure analysis, and regulatory compliance. This role requires strong knowledge of propulsion physics, thermodynamics, and material science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solid rocket motor engineer?

To thrive as a Solid Rocket Motor Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with expertise in propulsion systems and materials science, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and industry-specific standards like AS9100, as well as certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are often required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and collaborative communication skills help engineers address complex technical challenges and work effectively with cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial to ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of rocket propulsion systems in demanding aerospace environments.

What are some common challenges faced by solid rocket motor engineers when working on new propulsion projects?

Solid Rocket Motor Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing strict safety requirements, ensuring precise material selection, and meeting demanding performance specifications. Balancing the need for innovation with regulatory compliance and cost-effectiveness is a frequent hurdle, especially during design and testing phases. Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including materials scientists, manufacturing specialists, and test engineers, is essential to successfully address these challenges and deliver reliable propulsion systems.

What is the difference between Solid Rocket Motor Engineer vs Liquid Rocket Motor Engineer?

AspectSolid Rocket Motor EngineerLiquid Rocket Motor Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering; certifications in propulsion systemsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering; similar certifications in propulsion
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and manufacturing of solid rocket motors, often in aerospace or defense industriesDesign, testing, and operation of liquid propulsion systems, mainly in aerospace applications
Industry UsagePrimarily used in missile systems, space launch vehicles, and military applicationsCommon in space launch vehicles, satellite propulsion, and research rockets

Solid Rocket Motor Engineers focus on designing and testing solid propellant motors, while Liquid Rocket Motor Engineers work on liquid propulsion systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but they specialize in different propulsion types used in aerospace and defense industries.

What are popular job titles related to Solid Rocket Motor Engineer jobs?

For Solid Rocket Motor Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Solid Rocket Motor Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Chief Engineer, Solid Rocket Motor (SRM)

Luling, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Chief Engineer, Solid Rocket Motor (SRM)

Location:

Job Overview:

X-Bow Systems is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Engineer to lead program engineering efforts on Solid Rocket Systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in SRM design, test, operations and manufacturing processes, with a focus on continuous improvement, safety strategies, and best practices. This role requires dynamic leadership and the ability to manage complex engineering programs

SRM Chief Engineer Responsibilities:

  • Lead engineering team in design, analysis, and test of solid rocket motor components and systems to meet program objective and milestone events.
  • Collaborate with propulsion, materials, and structural engineers to ensure integrated design solutions.
  • Collaborate with ballistics to optimize motor performance, including thrust, burn rate, and pressure profiles.
  • Define and perform ground-based testing of solid rocket motor prototypes and sub-assemblies.
  • Evaluate and implement advanced manufacturing techniques for motor production.
  • Contribute to the development of testing procedures and safety protocols.
  • Document design processes, results, and findings for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in solid propulsion technologies.

Qualifications:

  • 10-15 years of relevant SRM experience in solid rocket motor design, analysis, and testing.
  • Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to oversee complex engineering projects.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of fostering strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
  • Bachelor's Degree Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • Demonstrated experience leading multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Demonstrated excellence in mechanical design using Solidworks CAD or similar.
  • Familiarity with propulsion system integration and optimization.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Effective communication skills to convey technical information to both technical and non-technical team members.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to safety in all stages of design and testing.
  • Ability to obtain security clearance.