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Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$86K - $120K/yr

Vast is looking for an Propulsion Test Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

You will work closely with propulsion engineers, flight test teams, autonomy developers ... Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment ...

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Propulsion Test Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location: Mojave Compensation: $95,000 - $135,000 / year Description As a Propulsion Test Engineer at ...

Propulsion Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$124K - $216K/yr

You'll Bring These Qualifications: * 2+ years of professional experience in powertrain, propulsion, or test engineering, with electric or ideally hybrid-electric systems. * Hands-on experience ...

Propulsion Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$124K - $216K/yr

You'll Bring These Qualifications: * 2+ years of professional experience in powertrain, propulsion, or test engineering, with electric or ideally hybrid-electric systems. * Hands-on experience ...

As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high-performance ...

Propulsion Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Description As a Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high ...

Propulsion Test Engineer

Victorville, CA · On-site

$80K - $170K/yr

The Role Mach Energetics is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer to support the planning, execution, and analysis of next-generation propulsion and energetic systems for advanced defense applications.

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How much do temporary propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary propulsion test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, experience with propulsion systems, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and safety protocols—as well as certifications like FE or EIT—are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in dynamic test environments. These competencies ensure accurate test execution, reliable data collection, and safety compliance, which are critical for propulsion system development.

What types of projects and teams can a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer expect to work with during their assignment?

As a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer, you will often be assigned to specific propulsion system projects, such as rocket engine development or aircraft engine testing. You'll typically work closely with multidisciplinary teams that include design engineers, technicians, and safety specialists to plan and execute test campaigns. Your daily responsibilities may involve preparing test setups, monitoring test data in real time, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring all procedures comply with safety standards. The fast-paced, project-based nature of this role offers valuable exposure to cutting-edge technology and can help you build relationships and experience that may lead to longer-term opportunities in the industry.

What is a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer?

A Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer is a specialized engineer hired for a limited period to conduct and oversee tests on propulsion systems, such as rocket engines or jet engines, in aerospace or automotive industries. Their responsibilities include preparing test setups, analyzing data, ensuring safety protocols, and reporting results to help validate or improve engine designs. These roles are often project-based and may require experience with specific testing equipment and software. Temporary positions allow companies to scale their workforce for critical testing phases without long-term commitments.

What is the difference between Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer vs Propulsion Systems Engineer?

AspectTemporary Propulsion Test EngineerPropulsion Systems Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, testing certificationsEngineering degree, systems design certifications
Work EnvironmentTest facilities, labs, outdoor test sitesDesign offices, integration labs, testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in testing and validation phasesDesign, development, and integration of propulsion systems

The Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer focuses on conducting tests and validating propulsion components, often in test facilities. In contrast, the Propulsion Systems Engineer is involved in designing and developing propulsion systems throughout the product lifecycle. Both roles require engineering credentials and are integral to aerospace and defense industries, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

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What job categories do people searching Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs are:

Propulsion Test Engineer IV/V

Agile Space Industries

Durango, CO • On-site

$117K - $212K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Agile Space Industries is a rapidly growing supplier of propulsion hardware and engineering services for the space industry. Headquartered in Durango, Colorado, with expanding operations in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, Agile has achieved more than 40% year-over-year growth for the past three years, and our momentum continues to accelerate.
At Agile, we design, build, and test in-space propulsion systems that give spacecraft the ability to maneuver with precision, reliability, and purpose. Our technologies play a critical role in missions that range from lunar landings and resource utilization to national defense, human exploration, and commercial space transport.
We are seeking bold and driven individuals who thrive in a hands-on, fast-moving environment and want to help write the next chapter of space history as part of a close-knit, innovative team.
Agile Space Industries is seeking an experienced Propulsion Test Engineer IV/V onsite in Durango, CO to lead the development, planning, and execution of propulsion test campaigns for liquid-fueled rocket engines and propulsion subsystems. This role is highly hands-on while also requiring strong technical leadership across test operations, facility infrastructure, and program execution.
The Test Engineer IV/V serves as a senior technical leader within the test organization, responsible for defining test strategies, leading complex test campaigns, and ensuring safe and efficient operation of propulsion test infrastructure. This role requires deep experience with propulsion testing, fluid systems, instrumentation, and ground support equipment.
The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced environments where engineering judgment, technical leadership, and hands-on problem solving are required to successfully execute propulsion development programs.
This position is ideal for experienced engineers who are comfortable in physically demanding conditions and thrive working outdoors year-round-whether it's actively snowing, raining, or over 100°F.
Responsibilities
  • Lead planning and execution of complex propulsion test campaigns including development testing, qualification testing, and customer test programs.
  • Serve as the responsible engineer for propulsion test campaigns, coordinating test operations, safety, instrumentation, and program teams.
  • Define test strategies, test objectives, and verification approaches for propulsion hardware development.
  • Lead configuration of test stands, fluid systems, and instrumentation required to support test campaigns.
  • Direct real-time test operations including anomaly resolution, troubleshooting, and operational decision-making.
  • Perform detailed analysis of propulsion test data and provide recommendations to propulsion design teams.
  • Develop and maintain advanced test procedures, facility operating procedures, and safety protocols.
  • Support design and upgrade of propulsion test infrastructure including propellant systems, pressurization systems, and ground support equipment.
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior test engineers and technicians.
  • Interface with internal program teams and external customers regarding test plans, test execution, and test results.
  • Drive continuous improvement of test operations, facility capability, and test efficiency.
  • Support failure investigations and root cause analysis following anomalous test events.
  • Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols including operation in hazardous environments requiring PPE and SCBA.
  • Perform other test-related duties as assigned by management.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • 7+ years of hands-on experience in propulsion or hardware testing.
  • Demonstrated experience leading propulsion test campaigns or major hardware test programs.
  • Strong knowledge of propulsion test stand architecture including fluid systems, instrumentation, and safety systems.
  • Experience with test data acquisition systems and analysis tools (NI, LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, etc.).
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for high-pressure fluid systems and propulsion hardware.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills when coordinating cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Ability to work extended shifts

Level Definitions
Test Engineer IV
  • Senior test engineer responsible for leading propulsion test campaigns and mentoring junior engineers.
  • Typically 7+ years of relevant propulsion or hardware test experience.

The expected salary range for this role is $117,000-$176,000 annually. Final compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, and internal equity, and is typically made within the midrange, rather than the upper end
Test Engineer V
  • Principal-level test engineer serving as a technical authority for propulsion test operations and infrastructure.
  • Typically 10+ years of propulsion testing or complex hardware test leadership experience.

The expected salary range for this role is $142,000-$212,000 annually. Final compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, and internal equity, and is typically made within the midrange, rather than the upper end.
Work Schedule: Full Time
Location: Durango, CO
Employment Type: Exempt
Onsite #LI-Onsite
Posting Timeline: This position will remain open for a minimum of five (5) days and will continue to accept applications until the role is filled. Early applications are encouraged, as reviews and interviews may begin during the posting period.
What You'll Love About Us: Agile Space Industries offers exceptional benefits to support you and your family including generous health coverage, dental and vision plans, Flexible Time Off, parental leave, and a 401(k) with 100% company match up to 4%. We are committed to creating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, region, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. Don't meet every single requirement? At Agile, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly align with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might be the perfect fit for this role or another opportunity with us.
Reasonable Accommodation: At Agile, our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please submit a request to hr@agilespaceindustries.com .
Recruitment Notice: Agile Space Industries is not partnering with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Please do not contact our staff directly regarding open positions. All candidates must apply through our official application process to be considered
Salary Description
$117,000-$212,000