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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do space propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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?

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.
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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?

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Space Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Propulsion job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Fluids Engineer - Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion

Approach Venture

Los Angeles, CA

$125K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Fluids Systems Engineer - Develop Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion & Fluid Systems

Los Angeles, CA | On-site


Opportunity Summary

Join a seed-stage space technology startup developing advanced spacecraft and propulsion systems for next-generation orbital missions. As a Fluids Systems Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of critical fluid systems supporting both flight hardware and ground development infrastructure. This is a highly hands-on engineering role with ownership across the full product lifecycle, from system architecture and first-principles analysis through hardware development, testing, and qualification. You will work across spacecraft, propulsion, cryogenic, and thermal fluid systems while collaborating closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver reliable, flight-ready hardware.


About Us

We are an early-stage aerospace company developing advanced spacecraft and in-space propulsion technologies for commercial and government missions. Our engineering team is building highly integrated propulsion, fluid, and energy systems that enable more capable spacecraft while solving complex engineering challenges through rapid design, testing, and iteration. Engineers have broad ownership, move quickly, and directly influence both product development and company growth.


Job Duties

  • Lead the architecture, design, and integration of spacecraft, propulsion, and ground support fluid systems.
  • Develop fluid system schematics, P&IDs, component layouts, and system interface definitions.
  • Design and size fluid components including tanks, valves, regulators, tubing, manifolds, pumps, instrumentation, and associated hardware.
  • Support the development of cryogenic fluid systems including storage, transfer, thermal management, conditioning, and boil-off mitigation.
  • Perform fluid dynamics, thermal, and pressurization analyses to guide engineering decisions.
  • Develop analytical models, engineering calculations, and simulations using appropriate engineering tools.
  • Create engineering drawings, assembly procedures, interface documentation, and test plans.
  • Plan, execute, and troubleshoot laboratory and integrated propulsion system testing.
  • Analyze test results and implement design improvements through structured engineering reviews.
  • Lead system safety evaluations, hazard assessments, and safe operating procedures for pressurized and hazardous fluid systems.
  • Collaborate with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and test engineering teams throughout development.


Qualifications

  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 2+ years of experience designing, analyzing, building, or testing fluid, propulsion, cryogenic, thermal, or mechanical systems.
  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, compressible flow, and mechanical system design.
  • Hands-on experience designing or integrating pressurized fluid systems and associated hardware.
  • Experience developing engineering calculations and simulations using tools such as Python, MATLAB, CAD, FEA, CFD, or equivalent.
  • Strong mechanical design experience including CAD, GD&T, material selection, manufacturability, and assembly.
  • Familiarity with high-pressure systems, hazardous fluids, leak testing, cleanliness standards, and safe laboratory operations.
  • Ability to solve complex engineering problems using first-principles thinking.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment with significant technical ownership.


Preferred Experience

  • Experience developing spacecraft propulsion or fluid systems.
  • Background with cryogenic storage, transfer, or thermal management systems.
  • Experience designing propulsion feed systems or pressurized fluid networks.
  • Knowledge of hydrogen, oxygen, or other specialty fluid systems.
  • Experience supporting prototype development, environmental testing, and hardware qualification.
  • Startup or early-stage aerospace product development experience.


Why Join Us

  • Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
  • Equity participation through stock options.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) program.
  • Paid time off.
  • Opportunity to own critical spacecraft fluid systems from concept through flight.
  • Significant technical ownership while working alongside experienced aerospace engineers.
  • Career growth within a rapidly expanding seed-stage space company.


Compensation Details

$125,000 - $175,000