ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer Spacecraft

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen/Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Extensive knowledge in component and system certification and the impacts of component design and operating ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions ... Develop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion hardware ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpacecraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft propulsion engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common day-to-day responsibilities of a Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer?

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineers are typically responsible for designing, analyzing, and testing propulsion systems such as rocket engines or thrusters to meet mission requirements. They often conduct simulations, perform performance evaluations, and collaborate closely with systems engineering, manufacturing, and testing teams. Daily work may involve troubleshooting propulsion issues, overseeing test data collection, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. These responsibilities require both independent technical focus and dynamic teamwork to ensure propulsion systems operate safely and efficiently on each mission.

What does a Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer do?

A Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer designs, analyzes, and tests propulsion systems that enable spacecraft to maneuver in space or travel between destinations. They work with various propulsion types, including chemical, electric, and nuclear propulsion, to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability. Their responsibilities include selecting propellants, developing thrusters, and ensuring propulsion systems meet mission requirements. They often collaborate with other engineers to integrate propulsion systems into spacecraft and troubleshoot performance issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with expertise in propulsion systems, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with industry-standard modeling software (such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or COMSOL), propulsion system test equipment, and certifications like EIT or PE enhance technical capabilities. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication are essential soft skills in this interdisciplinary field. These skills ensure propulsion engineers can design, analyze, and refine critical systems that enable successful spacecraft missions, often in collaborative and high-stakes environments.

More about Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs are:
Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer

Legion Technical Solutions LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted just now

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance

We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer with a strong hands-on background in spacecraft hardware and propulsion system development. This hybrid role blends mechanical design, propulsion assembly and testing, spacecraft layout/architecture, and cross-functional collaboration across thermal, structural analysis, and manufacturing teams—with a strong emphasis on AIT execution and spacecraft hardware integration. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, hardware-focused environments and enjoys working from concept through fabrication, test, and flight. 
Key Responsibilities 
  • Execute hands-on assembly and testing of propulsion systems, including tubing, heaters, sensors, valves, and other fluid-system hardware. 
  • Develop 3D CAD models, detailed part/assembly drawings, tolerance analyses, and integrated layouts optimized for tightly constrained spacecraft environments. 
  • Design spacecraft hardware such as brackets, enclosures, fluid-routing solutions, thermal/mechanical interfaces, and structural components. 
  • Generate models, documentation packages, and work instructions to support AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) for propulsion and spacecraft mechanical hardware. 
  • Collaborate closely with structural, thermal, analysis, and manufacturing teams to iterate designs through the full engineering lifecycle—from early concepts to flight-ready hardware. 
  • Support propulsion and mechanical test campaigns, including setup, execution, data review, troubleshooting, and documentation. 
  • Apply aerospace standards—including range safety guidelines and RPUG requirements—to ensure compliance, safety, and mission success. 
  • Contribute to process development, continuous improvement, and flight-readiness maturation for mechanical and propulsion subsystems. 
Desired Skills & Experience 
  • Hands-on experience with propulsion system build-up and testing, including fluid systems, heaters, wiring/sensors, or valve integration. 
  • Mechanical design proficiency using modern CAD tools; experience with GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and drawing release workflows. 
  • Familiarity with spacecraft packaging constraints, tight-tolerance interfaces, and multidisciplinary integration challenges. 
  • Working understanding of propulsion-system fundamentals, thermal behavior, or fluid dynamics is a plus. 
  • Knowledge of aerospace standards (range safety, RPUG, etc.) or prior experience working with flight hardware. 
  • Strong documentation skills and the ability to produce clear, concise technical communication. 
  • Effective collaborator in hands-on, cross-functional engineering environments; capable of taking hardware from bench to flight. 
Education & Work Experience 
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. 3+ years relevant experience. 
  • 3 to 5 years of on-the-job engineering experience. 
  • Desire to contribute to a highly hands-on engineering setting involving design, integration, testing, and flight hardware ownership.

Flexible work from home options available.