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Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Mechanical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Our areas of expertise are in spacecraft payload and system development (especially in the confines ... Knowledge of propulsion system design and experience with the development and testing of cold gas ...

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Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer information

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$41.6K

$107.7K

$163.6K

How much do spacecraft propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft propulsion engineer in Virginia is $107,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,700.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 as a spacecraft propulsion engineer?

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer job openings:

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,706 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

DARPA Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer SETA

Pae

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Amentum is a leading provider of engineering, scientific, and program management support services to some of the top agencies in the U.S. government, including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), NASA, the Department of Homeland Security, and the intelligence community.

Amentum is currently seeking talented, enthusiastic, and dynamic individuals to support DARPA in formulating, monitoring, and transitioning advanced research and development programs to the U.S. military in multiple areas, including spacecraft propulsion.

This is a full-time position based in Arlington, VA with the opportunity for remote work.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Serve as a primary support contractor to DARPA Program Managers, DARPA leadership, performers, integrated product teams (IPTs), and the research and development communities across industry, academia, and the Government.
  • Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise in spacecraft propulsion.
  • Perform independent technical assessments of new technologies and system designs, including evaluation of alternatives, trade studies, and cost-benefit analyses.
  • Provide support in identifying and implementing new program concepts.
  • Support testing efforts, including the preparation of experiment/test plans and coordination with teammates, customers and stakeholders.
  • Identify and translate requirements into technology research and development objectives.
  • Support technical interchange meetings and design reviews.
  • Author program briefings and technical reports.
  • Provide program management and acquisition support.
  • Foster a culture of innovation and technical excellence.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field and a minimum of 7 years of experience.
  • Demonstrated experience in spacecraft propulsion design (chemical, electrical, or nuclear) for commercial or defense-related technology research and/or development programs.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership experience.
  • Ability to provide practical and creative solutions in a dynamic work environment, while working effectively with a team.
  • Familiarity with classical systems engineering processes and procedures.
  • Ability to quickly identify and resolve program execution risks, mitigations, and issues.
  • Candidates should be self-starters capable of working both independently and as part of a team.
  • Must have an Active US Government TS/SCI Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Government TS/SCI Clearance.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or PhD.
  • Military and/or Government program support experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to quickly identify and resolve program execution risks, mitigations, and issues.
  • Candidates should be self-starters capable of working both independently and as part of a team.

Compensation Details:

$175K-$195K

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

06/15/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.

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