Propulsion engineers design, analyze, test, and improve the systems that move aircraft, spacecraft, launch vehicles, and other high-performance platforms. Their work may involve rocket engines, gas turbines, electric propulsion, fuel systems, combustion, and thermal management. Explore vetted Propulsion Engineer opportunities on Ladders, focused on professional roles paying $100,000 or more.
Responsibilities vary by employer and product, but can include developing propulsion concepts, building performance models, evaluating components, interpreting test data, and supporting systems through design, qualification, and production. Engineers also collaborate across disciplines such as aerodynamics, structures, controls, manufacturing, and systems engineering to meet performance, safety, reliability, and cost goals.
Many roles call for a degree in aerospace, mechanical, or a related engineering discipline, along with experience in propulsion or thermal-fluid systems. Employers may seek knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, turbomachinery, materials, simulation tools, and experimental testing. Depending on the position, familiarity with requirements management, technical documentation, and regulated or defense programs may also be valuable.
Propulsion engineers work across aerospace, commercial aviation, space exploration, launch services, defense, and advanced technology. Career paths can lead to senior or principal engineering positions, technical leadership, chief engineering, program management, or specialized work in engine performance, combustion, testing, or electric propulsion.
Use Ladders to explore vetted professional opportunities with compensation of $100,000 or more. Compare roles by employer, location, experience level, and technical focus to find a position aligned with your expertise and career goals. Job requirements and compensation vary by opening.
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Operations Engineering
$110K - $130K *
Lead the design and optimization of mechanical systems for data centers, ensuring reliability, energy efficiency, and compliance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance operational perform...
2 weeks ago
$84K - $87K *
Unlock potential by leveraging engineering expertise to analyze, design, and deliver innovative solutions for diverse civil projects, collaborating across disciplines to meet client needs and regulato...
4 days ago
$84K - $87K *
Launch your engineering career by contributing to innovative civil projects, utilizing advanced software, and collaborating across disciplines to shape the future built environment while adhering to r...
4 days ago
Lead Distribution Engineer with PE License - REMOTE WORK
$118K - $192K *
Innovate as a Lead Distribution Engineer, overseeing design teams on complex distribution projects. Drive client relationships and enhance utility solutions, ensuring efficiency and compliance while f...
4 weeks ago
Support Scientist for Operational Wave Modeling Development
$100K - $120K *
Drive advancements in operational wave modeling by enhancing predictive capabilities, integrating innovative AI techniques, and collaborating across sectors to protect coastal communities and improve...
3 weeks ago
Solutions Engineer, Federal (U.S. Army)
$245K - $260K *
Lead technical solutions for U.S. Army accounts, enhancing digital performance and visibility. Collaborate with executives to develop strategies, conduct presentations, and address complex challenges...
2 weeks ago
Transmission Line Engineer (Remote)
$104K - $141K *
Elevate your career by designing high voltage transmission lines using PLS-CADD. Collaborate with multi-discipline teams, manage project scopes, and deliver expert consultation to ensure successful pr...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Champion the qualification and validation of pharmaceutical manufacturing systems, ensuring compliance with FDA and GMP standards. Engage in commissioning, testing, and documentation while collaborati...
1 month ago
$90K - $100K *
Contribute to the development and integration of mission-critical systems, applying systems engineering principles to ensure high reliability and security. Collaborate across teams to support the enti...
Yesterday
Mid-Level Water and Wastewater Engineer
$85K - $120K *
Transform communities by providing technical assistance for sustainable water infrastructure. Collaborate with underserved utilities to enhance funding access, evaluate projects, and promote innovativ...
2 weeks ago
Program Director for Construction Management (Owners Agent)
$157K - $283K *
Lead the charge in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, managing client relationships, overseeing construction management efforts, and ensuring program success through strategic planning an...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Asset Management Program Manager - Manufacturing & Specialty Chemicals
$93K - $157K *
Transform asset management programs by leading multi-site inspections and enhancing client partnerships. Drive continuous improvement while managing project scope, budget, and quality in the manufactu...
2 days ago
Software Engineer, Design Systems
$130K - $170K *
Lead the evolution of our design system by building accessible, reusable components and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance user experiences and streamline adoption across products...
2 weeks ago
$125K - $150K *
Unlock potential by leading complex control systems projects, ensuring delivery excellence across safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. Mentor Project Managers and drive strategic alignment to s...
Today
$98K - $164K *
Unlock potential by leading power system engineering efforts to design innovative electrification solutions for EHV/HV substations, ensuring project execution success and maximizing business developme...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior Transmission Line Engineer 1 - Grid
$84K - $129K *
Drive the design and development of high-voltage transmission lines, overseeing project teams and ensuring compliance with engineering standards while collaborating with clients and vendors to deliver...
Today
$110K - $130K *
Transform engineering concepts into successful project implementations by collaborating with design teams and providing technical expertise on cooling systems for optimal project execution and custome...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join us to transform enterprise OS infrastructure through modern practices, leveraging your Python expertise and operational skills to drive modernization, package migrations, and effective CI/CD impl...
3 weeks ago
Senior Advanced Project Engineer - Electronics Supplier Development
$135K - $182K *
Lead the charge in enhancing supplier performance and quality for electronic components. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives and ensure compliance with...
Today
Lead Metallic Materials Application Engineer
$112K - $149K *
Join a team that's dedicated to advancing aerospace materials technology. In this role, you'll lead the definition and qualification of materials for engine hardware, collaborating with cross-function...
Yesterday
$100K - $111K *
Champion complex systems engineering initiatives with a focus on safety, delivering innovative solutions that comply with DoD standards. Lead hazard analysis and risk mitigation efforts while mentorin...
4 days ago
Engineering Manager, Active Sensors (LiDAR)
$135K - $160K *
Drive the development of advanced machine learning systems for autonomous trucks, leading a team in perception capabilities. Oversee the complete lifecycle from data requirements to deployment, ensuri...
2 weeks ago
Research Engineer - RL Infrastructure
$150K - $350K *
Drive the development of cutting-edge AI infrastructure to enhance large-scale reinforcement learning and distributed training systems, optimizing performance and efficiency across various layers and...
3 days ago
Simulations Software Developer
$82K - $156K *
Join us to design and implement advanced software for spacecraft simulators, enhancing simulation capabilities through collaboration, innovation, and adherence to industry best practices in a fast-pac...
3 weeks ago
$115K - $156K *
Pioneer innovative maintenance processes and CMMS capabilities, driving global engineering operations. Collaborate with stakeholders to enhance asset management, reliability, and sustainability while...
1 week ago
What does a propulsion engineer do?
A propulsion engineer designs, analyzes, tests, or improves systems that generate thrust or power for vehicles such as aircraft, spacecraft, and launch vehicles. Specific duties depend on the technology and employer.
What qualifications are common for propulsion engineer jobs?
Many positions seek a bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field, plus relevant experience. Requirements may include expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, turbomachinery, modeling, or testing.
Which industries hire propulsion engineers?
Common employers include aerospace and aviation companies, spaceflight and launch providers, defense contractors, and organizations developing advanced propulsion technologies.
What skills are useful in a propulsion engineering career?
Useful skills include propulsion-system analysis, thermal-fluid sciences, simulation, test planning, data analysis, technical communication, and cross-functional collaboration. The most relevant skills vary by specialty and role.
Are Propulsion Engineer jobs on Ladders $100,000 or more?
Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more. Compensation and eligibility requirements vary by listing, so review each opening for current details.