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Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cornerstone Signals & Cyber Technologies

$165K/yr

Research, evaluate, and assess liquid rocket engines, solid rocket motors, and associated propulsion technologies. * Respond to Government technical inquiries through engineering analyses, literature ...

Cahaba Federal Solutions

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Senior Propulsion Engineer will contribute to a broad range of work involving the guidance ... Address customer inquiries related to propulsion systems, including liquid rocket engines and solid ...

Cahaba Federal Solutions

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Senior Propulsion Engineer will contribute to a broad range of work involving the guidance ... Address customer inquiries related to propulsion systems, including liquid rocket engines and solid ...

EXPANSIA Group

$90K - $109K/yr

Up to 30% within continental United States) Our client is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to ... For solid rocket motors: igniter design, propellant grain design, and structural analysis of ...

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Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

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

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for solid rocket propulsion engineer in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solid rocket propulsion engineer do?

A Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer designs, develops, tests, and analyzes solid rocket motors and propulsion systems. Their work involves selecting suitable materials, optimizing motor performance, and ensuring safety and reliability in rocket launches. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate propulsion systems into rockets or missiles, often using advanced simulation and testing techniques. These engineers play a crucial role in both space exploration and defense applications where solid rocket motors are used.

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

To thrive as a Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer, you need a robust understanding of aerospace engineering, chemistry, and materials science, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software like ANSYS, CAD tools, and industry-standard test equipment is commonly required, along with knowledge of safety standards such as those from NASA or the DoD. Strong problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and testing of solid rocket propulsion systems vital for mission success.

What are some common challenges faced by solid rocket propulsion engineers during the development and testing phases?

Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineers often encounter challenges related to material selection, performance consistency, and safety during both development and testing. Ensuring the uniformity of propellant mixture and preventing defects during manufacturing are critical to reliable engine performance. Additionally, engineers must rigorously test for structural integrity under extreme conditions, which requires close collaboration with materials scientists and quality assurance teams. Managing strict safety protocols and troubleshooting unexpected results are also key aspects of the role.

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

AspectSolid Rocket Propulsion EngineerLiquid Rocket Propulsion Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, specialized in propulsion, certifications in propulsion systemsEngineering degree, specialized in propulsion, certifications in propulsion systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and manufacturing of solid rocket motors, often in labs and manufacturing facilitiesDesign, testing, and operation of liquid propulsion systems, often in labs and test stands
Industry UsageSpace agencies, defense contractors, missile manufacturersSpace agencies, satellite launch providers, defense contractors

Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineers focus on designing and testing solid rocket motors, while Liquid Rocket Propulsion Engineers work on liquid propulsion systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often operate in similar environments within the aerospace industry, but they specialize in different propulsion technologies.

What states have the most Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various Solid Rocket Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, 25% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Endineer

Dayton, OH • On-site

Cornerstone Signals & Cyber Technologies LLC
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Cornerstone Signals & Cyber Technologies LLCexternal

$185K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide technical analysis and engineering support for advanced propulsion systems supporting aerospace and missile programs.

  • Research, evaluate, and assess liquid rocket engines, solid rocket motors, and associated propulsion technologies.

  • Support modeling and simulation activities associated with propulsion system performance.

Job description

Senior Propulsion Engineer
Location: Dayton, Ohio - NASIC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Clearance: Active TS/SCI 
Cornerstone Signals & Cyber Technologies LLC is a certified Small Business, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) providing engineering, technical, advisory, intelligence, and program management services to Federal Government customers. Our professionals support mission-critical national security programs across the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and Federal civilian agencies.
Position Summary
Cornerstone is seeking a highly motivated Senior Propulsion Engineer to support an advanced aerospace and missile systems program in Dayton, Ohio. The successful candidate will provide technical engineering support involving rocket propulsion systems, guidance, navigation, control, modeling and simulation, and aerospace vehicle performance analysis.
This position supports Government customers by evaluating propulsion technologies, conducting engineering analyses, performing technical research, and developing formal engineering assessments related to liquid rocket engines, solid rocket motors, and associated propulsion subsystems.
The selected candidate will operate with minimal supervision while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver technically sound, mission-focused solutions.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Provide technical analysis and engineering support for advanced propulsion systems supporting aerospace and missile programs.
  • Research, evaluate, and assess liquid rocket engines, solid rocket motors, and associated propulsion technologies.
  • Respond to Government technical inquiries through engineering analyses, literature reviews, and formal technical reports.
  • Perform propulsion performance evaluations using analytical methods, engineering software, and established technical databases.
  • Support design reviews, trade studies, and technical risk assessments.
  • Analyze propulsion system performance, combustion processes, thermal environments, and fluid flow characteristics.
  • Support modeling and simulation activities associated with propulsion system performance.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to evaluate total vehicle performance and subsystem integration.
  • Prepare technical briefings and engineering documentation for Government stakeholders.
  • Maintain awareness of emerging propulsion technologies and applicable engineering standards.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Eight (8) or more years of professional engineering experience supporting propulsion systems, aerospace systems, fluid mechanics, or closely related disciplines.
  • Working knowledge of:
    • Thermodynamics
    • Chemical equilibrium
    • Stoichiometry
    • Compressible flow
    • Rocket nozzle theory
    • Structural mechanics
    • Classical mechanics
  • Experience performing engineering calculations using one or more of the following:
    • Python
    • MATLAB
    • C
    • C++
    • Fortran
  • Ability to independently conduct technical research and develop engineering reports.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering with emphasis in chemical propulsion.
  • Eight (8) or more years of propulsion engineering experience.
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense or Intelligence Community aerospace programs.
  • Experience with liquid rocket engines and/or solid rocket motors.
  • Experience utilizing JANNAF propulsion databases.
  • Experience using NASA Chemical Equilibrium with Applications (CEA) or comparable propulsion analysis software.
  • Knowledge of:
    • Propellant combustion
    • Feed systems
    • Injector design
    • Cooling systems
    • Igniter design
    • Propellant grain design
    • Structural analysis of rocket motors
    • Pressure loss analysis
    • Propulsion instrumentation including pressure transducers, thermocouples, and flow measurement systems.
  • Experience participating in multidisciplinary engineering design reviews.
Desired Skills
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
  • Ability to independently solve complex engineering problems.
  • Strong technical writing and presentation skills.
  • Effective collaboration within integrated engineering teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple technical priorities while meeting project deadlines.
  • Commitment to technical excellence and continuous professional development.
Base salary is currently $185,000, possibly more depending on qualifications, directly related experience, technical expertise, and security clearance.