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Space Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Busek Co Inc

Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

As a Space Propulsion Systems Engineer at Busek, you will own the requirements baseline that drives propulsion system design and ensure mission needs are met through structured verification and ...

Busek

Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

As a Space Propulsion Systems Engineer at Busek, you will own the requirements baseline that drives propulsion system design and ensure mission needs are met through structured verification and ...

Astranis

Propulsion Engineer

San Francisco, CA

Past experience with in-space propulsion, launch vehicles, or other fluid systems is a benefit but not required. Role * Own the full lifecycle of fluid components from requirements definition all the ...

Astranis

Propulsion Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Past experience with in-space propulsion, launch vehicles, or other fluid systems is a benefit but not required. Role * Own the full lifecycle of fluid components from requirements definition all the ...

Associates Systems LLC

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience coordinating space propulsion systems requirements verification and validation between multiple organizations * Basic knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in the ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience coordinating space propulsion systems requirements verification and validation between multiple organizations * Basic knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in the ...

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do space propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for space propulsion 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 are some common challenges faced by engineers working in space propulsion, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers in space propulsion often encounter challenges such as designing systems that operate reliably in extreme environments, balancing weight constraints with performance, and ensuring compatibility with different spacecraft platforms. Addressing these issues requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, rigorous testing, and staying current with advances in materials and manufacturing processes. Proactive problem-solving and effective communication with colleagues in aerodynamics, systems engineering, and mission planning are key to overcoming these challenges and delivering successful propulsion solutions.

What is the difference between Space Propulsion vs Rocket Propulsion Engineer?

AspectSpace PropulsionRocket Propulsion Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion Engineering; certifications in propulsion systemsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; certifications in propulsion or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test propulsion systems for spacecraft in labs and cleanroomsDesign, analyze, and test rocket engines for launch vehicles in labs and test facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in space agencies, aerospace companies, and satellite manufacturersMostly in aerospace firms, launch service providers, and defense contractors

Both roles focus on propulsion systems but differ in application: Space Propulsion specializes in spacecraft propulsion, while Rocket Propulsion Engineers work on launch vehicle engines. The skills and credentials overlap significantly, but their work environments and end goals vary based on whether they support space missions or rocket launches.

What is space propulsion?

Space propulsion refers to the methods and technologies used to move spacecraft through space. This typically involves systems like chemical rockets, ion thrusters, and other types of engines that generate thrust to change a spacecraft's speed and direction. Space propulsion is crucial for launching satellites, conducting interplanetary missions, and maneuvering spacecraft once they're in orbit. Different missions require different propulsion systems depending on factors like distance, payload, and mission duration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Space Propulsion Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Space Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and experience with propulsion system design, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, ANSYS, CAD software, and propulsion testing protocols, as well as certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and innovative development of propulsion systems that enable successful space missions.
More about Space Propulsion jobs
What cities are hiring for Space Propulsion jobs? Cities with the most Space Propulsion job openings:
What states have the most Space Propulsion jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Propulsion jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Propulsion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Propulsion jobs are:
Space Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Propulsion job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 6% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Busek Co Inc

Natick, MA • On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

About Busek:
Busek is a world leader in aerospace propulsion, developing advanced in-space electric propulsion systems for some of the most ambitious space missions. We are seeking a Space Propulsion Systems Engineer to manage the system-level engineering of propulsion programs from concept through flight delivery.
As a Space Propulsion Systems Engineer at Busek, you will own the requirements baseline that drives propulsion system design and ensure mission needs are met through structured verification and validation. You will work across mechanical, electrical, thermal, fluidic, software, manufacturing, and test disciplines to integrate solutions that meet customer expectations. You will engage directly with customers, drive technical deliverables to completion, and lead design reviews that define program success. By combining propulsion knowledge with systems engineering rigor, you will help deliver some of the most advanced space propulsion technologies to orbit.
How you will make an impact:
  • Manage propulsion system and subsystem requirements from definition through verification and flight delivery.
  • Develop verification plans and identify artifacts to demonstrate compliance with customer and mission requirements.
  • Perform system-level analyses, including reliability (FMECA), propellant gauging, and mass/power budgeting, to support design and decision-making.
  • Account for cross-disciplinary considerations, including mechanical, thermal, electrical, fluidic, software, manufacturing, and test requirements, during design and integration.
  • Define program scope and contribute to planning and execution of propulsion development efforts.
  • Lead major design reviews, including PDR and CDR, and present technical progress to internal teams and customers.
  • Serve as the primary technical interface with customers, ensuring contractual technical deliverables are met.
  • Collaborate across engineering teams to resolve technical issues and ensure mission success.

Required Experience:
  • Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field.
  • Strong foundation in systems engineering principles.
  • Experience managing requirements, verification planning, and system integration activities.
  • Fundamental knowledge of core mechanical, thermal, electrical, fluids, and software principles.
  • Ability to work with multidisciplinary engineering teams and communicate effectively with customers.
  • Strong technical documentation and presentation skills.
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks and track complex program information.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) for documentation, analysis, and reporting.

Desired Experience:
  • Knowledge of spacecraft mission design.
  • Familiarity with aerospace industry standards and spaceflight qualification practices (NASA, DoD, ESA, ECSS).
  • Experience with electric or chemical propulsion system design, integration, or testing.
  • Background in reliability engineering and system safety practices, including FMECA and PFMEA/DFMEA.
  • Experience contributing to or leading PDR, CDR, or similar technical reviews.
  • Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems and their interactions (thermal, power, structures, fluids, software).
  • Prior experience supporting or managing complex aerospace or spaceflight programs.
  • Familiarity with spacecraft subsystem interfaces (mechanical, thermal, electrical, software).
  • Familiarity with risk identification and mitigation in complex engineering programs.
The expected salary range for this position is $90,000 - $150,000.Actual compensation will be determined by the candidate's experience, education, and alignment with organizational needs.
Requirements:
  • U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or protected individual.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance (up to TS/SCI).

Benefits:
  • 401K, performance bonuses, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, paid vacation, and more.
U.S. Citizenship Requirement
Due to the nature of work performed under U.S. government contracts and applicable security and contractual requirements, this position is limited to U.S. citizens.

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