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Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in Houston Texas - No remote is available * Serve as the Chemical Propulsion Refueling Lead acting as the ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Technician II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering teams ... Growth - Join a collaborative engineering and production team at the center of spacecraft ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

JOB SUMMARY 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 ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

JOB SUMMARY 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 ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

JOB SUMMARY 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 ...

Ursa Major

Propulsion Engineer II

Berthoud, CO

$92K - $115K/yr

Ownership of new and existing spacecraft propulsion system components through flight with a focus ... Bachelor's degree in engineering * 2+ years of relevant hardware design and ownership experience

Maxar

Spacecraft Propulsion Technician

Palo Alto, CA

$27.60 - $46/hr

Assemble and integrate spacecraft propulsion components (tanks, prop lines, valves, regulators ... Troubleshoot build/test issues with engineering and quality, perform rework per approved procedures ...

Sierra Space Corporation

Propulsion Engineer I

Madison, WI · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

About the Role The Propulsion Engineer I role involves assisting in the design, development, and ... spacecraft, and related technologies. This entry-level position provides an opportunity to gain ...

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All JobsSpacecraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs

Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 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:
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Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
Propulsion Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

Propulsion Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

Astranis

San Francisco, CA

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Propulsion Engineer - Intern (Fall 2026)
 
Internships at Astranis typically last for twelve weeks, and are hourly roles designed for students who are currently enrolled at a four-year university. 

As an Intern, you will have an amazing opportunity to work on hard problems - we pride ourselves on giving everyone at Astranis a chance to do meaningful work on complex projects, no matter their seniority. Many past interns have designed and tested hardware/software that is heading to space on our first satellite, and many of them are now full-time employees at Astranis. 

If you have already graduated from a four-year university, please apply to be an Associate Engineer.
Role
  • Make an impact on the Propulsion team by designing, analyzing, building, and testing propulsion system hardware
  • Take on interdisciplinary projects with other teams to support Propulsion and company initiatives
  • Learn how to apply your academic experience to real world situations and develop team skills to fuel you academic and professional careers
Requirements
  • Currently pursuing a B.S. in a technical discipline (e.g. Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, Physics)
  • Understanding of spacecraft systems and operation demonstrated through course work or student organizations
  • Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and test hardware from scratch
  • Don't meet them all? Not a problem. Please apply even if you do not meet all these criteria.
Bonus
  • Familiarity with spacecraft design with a focus on chemical and/or electrical propulsion for spacecraft
  • Experience with Python
  • Test experience with spacecraft propulsion systems

Apply