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.
Propulsion System Controls Test Engineer
$95K - $115K *
Take ownership of propulsion system testing by planning, executing, and reviewing control tests for electric vehicles, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in advanced automotive technologies...
4 weeks ago
$165K - $245K *
Innovate propulsion systems for advanced space vehicles. Lead design, testing, and optimization efforts while mentoring engineers. Collaborate across teams to ensure mission success and enhance system...
2 weeks ago
$165K - $245K *
Join us to design and optimize advanced propulsion systems for next-gen space vehicles. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, mentor engineers, and drive innovation in missile defense technology...
2 weeks ago
Lead Propulsion Integration Engineer
$130K - $155K *
Drive aerospace innovation by leading propulsion module integration, transforming requirements into flight-ready systems. Collaborate, ensure safety compliance, and mentor your team while scaling prod...
3 weeks ago
Propulsion Engineer - Pressure Vessels Lead (COPV)
$136K - $193K *
Lead the charge in designing and qualifying pressure vessels for human-rated space stations. Oversee a team, set technical direction, and manage the full product lifecycle from concept to end-of-life...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Explore your potential as a Marine Engineer, enhancing vessel modernization for military projects. Collaborate with various teams to deliver technical solutions and support data management throughout...
4 weeks ago
Staff Mechanical Engineer, Propulsion
$180K - $215K *
Join a team that's redefining propulsion systems for sUAS platforms. You'll lead engine selection, integration, and testing, ensuring optimal performance and reliability across various flight conditio...
1 week ago
Aerospace Engineer (Propulsion) - Direct Hire
$110K - $130K *
Support major aviation investigations by providing expert analysis on propulsion systems, leading teams, and developing safety recommendations to enhance aviation safety and compliance...
2 weeks ago
Senior Propulsion Engineer, Fluids
$120K - $145K *
Lead the design of pressurized fluid systems for propulsion modules, driving architecture, testing, and compliance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure systems are safe, efficient, and r...
3 weeks ago
$150K - $181K *
Drive innovation in aerospace by leading the design and analysis of launch vehicle structures. Collaborate with global teams to ensure performance and reliability while mentoring engineers in a dynami...
2 weeks ago
$151K - $252K *
Shape the future of in-space propulsion by leading design, analysis, and testing of advanced systems. Drive architecture decisions and manage teams to deliver innovative propulsion solutions for diver...
Today
Technical Professional II-III (Propulsion)
$95K - $115K *
Join a dynamic team supporting propulsion systems for the International Space Station. Collaborate with international partners, manage technical meetings, and ensure system performance meets mission r...
1 week ago
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Propulsion Systems and Integration
$140K - $180K *
Join a team that's redefining defense technology by integrating advanced propulsion systems into next-gen platforms. Collaborate across disciplines to transform concepts into reliable, manufacturable...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform marine propulsion systems through expert maintenance and troubleshooting. Collaborate with customers and lead service teams to ensure safety and efficiency while delivering top-notch technic...
5 days ago
Senior Hypersonics & Advanced Propulsion Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Unlock potential by driving the development of hypersonic flight systems and advanced propulsion technologies. Collaborate on innovative aerospace projects, enhancing your expertise in solid rocket mo...
1 week ago
Rocket Propulsion Systems Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Inspire innovation in rocket propulsion research by providing expert technical advisory support. Collaborate with a dynamic team to enhance national Space Access capabilities through rigorous systems...
6 days ago
Spacecraft Development Engineer
$100K - $160K *
Lead innovative projects in spacecraft development, collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize system performance and deliver exceptional space vehicles while ensuring compliance with custo...
4 weeks ago
Propulsion Design Engineer II, Integrated Design
$104K - $156K *
Innovate in aerospace by designing and analyzing Aeon-R propulsion systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize engine performance and support the launch of Terran R in 2026. Lead proj...
3 weeks ago
Sr. Principal Propulsion Engineer
$135K - $203K *
Innovate and advance your career by designing advanced propulsion systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and optimize components, ensuring project success through effective planni...
Reposted 1 week ago
$130K - $155K *
Build and lead a propulsion test engineering team, designing test infrastructure for thrusters and systems. Drive safety, data quality, and operational excellence while managing capacity to support gr...
3 weeks ago
Senior Turbomachinery Aerodynamics Engineer
$140K - $185K *
Lead the charge in developing advanced turbomachinery designs for nuclear reactors. Collaborate across disciplines to ensure optimal aerodynamic performance and structural integrity throughout the lif...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$84K - $115K *
Join a team that's committed to innovation as you develop custom mechanical systems, perform simulations, and support design processes, ensuring top-tier performance from concept to assembly, with occ...
Reposted 6 days ago
Mechanical Engineer (Payload Design & Integration)
$85K - $105K *
Drive innovation by supporting the design, testing, and integration of payload hardware for DoD projects. Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to ensure project success throughout the developme...
4 weeks ago
$100K - $140K *
Transform your career by leading spacecraft testing initiatives, enhancing processes, and collaborating with diverse teams to ensure the success of cutting-edge aerospace projects. Drive innovation an...
2 weeks ago
$185K - $280K *
Drive the design and development of advanced propulsion systems for spacecraft, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure performance and reliability. Shape the future of space exploration...
2 weeks 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.