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.
$139K - $157K *
Lead the charge in ensuring quality assurance for aerospace manufacturing. Develop and implement quality programs, oversee inspections, and drive continuous improvement for high-reliability spacefligh...
3 weeks ago
Thermal Engineer - Aerospace Systems
$95K - $115K *
Shape the future of aerospace by conducting advanced thermal analyses and supporting NASA research. Collaborate with diverse teams to enhance propulsion systems and materials, driving innovation in na...
2 days ago
Mechanical Engineer - Product Development
$80K - $95K *
Drive innovation by developing mechanical products from concept to production. Engage in hands-on design, prototyping, and testing while collaborating with manufacturing teams to bring diverse commerc...
2 days ago
$95K - $115K *
Lead the charge in designing and optimizing mechanical systems for biorefinery operations, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure innovative technologies transition from concept to reliab...
2 weeks ago
Lead Engineer Stability Analysis-2
$85K - $164K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing reactor safety through advanced thermal-hydraulic stability analyses. Collaborate across disciplines to support operational needs and fuel-related projects fo...
Yesterday
Mechanical Engineer Body Systems
$95K - $115K *
Unlock potential by leading innovative mechanical engineering projects that enhance performance and drive cost efficiency. Collaborate across disciplines to deliver impactful solutions while engaging...
1 week ago
$89K - $148K *
Elevate aerodynamic design and analysis for turbomachinery products through innovative solutions and strong collaboration. Drive continuous improvements from concept to execution, ensuring high-qualit...
Reposted yesterday
Sentinel Principal/Sr. Principal Loads & Dynamics Engineer - 20011
$98K - $147K *
Lead the charge in advanced structural dynamics analysis to enhance aerospace systems. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to tackle complex vibration and shock challenges while supporting compre...
3 weeks ago
Power Systems Software Engineer
$100K - $120K *
Champion the future of transmission planning by designing and automating cloud-based tools that enhance workflows for utilities and developers. Collaborate with engineers to ensure reliable, efficient...
2 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Explore your engineering expertise in designing custom instrumentation and systems. Collaborate on international projects, applying advanced knowledge in electronics, programming, and circuit design t...
2 weeks ago
$85K - $106K *
Elevate manufacturing excellence by developing and standardizing processes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency, reduce variation, and ensure quality in fabrication, machinin...
2 weeks ago
Senior Mechanical Engineer (Marine Auxiliary Equipment)
$95K - $110K *
Unlock your potential as you support the US Coast Guard by designing and evaluating marine auxiliary systems. Collaborate with a dedicated team, enhance your skills, and contribute to vital engineerin...
1 week ago
$120K - $165K *
Optimize nuclear reactor design by leading critical component development, including neutronics, thermal-hydraulics, and safety. Collaborate with experts in a dynamic environment to innovate and valid...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Airframe Manufacturing Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Drive the establishment and scaling of airframe manufacturing operations, transforming engineering concepts into tangible hardware through hands-on collaboration across teams to ensure quality and eff...
6 days ago
$153K - $164K *
Shape the future of marine operations as you oversee the safe and efficient maintenance of tugboat machinery and systems, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and operational excellence...
2 days ago
$153K - $164K *
Oversee the safe and efficient operation of all machinery and systems on the tugboat, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and maintenance standards while coordinating with crew and management fo...
2 days ago
Reactor Core Mechanical Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Unlock potential by designing mechanical components for nuclear reactors at sea. Collaborate across teams to enhance structural integrity under dynamic marine loads while influencing future reactor sy...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Lead and inspire a dynamic team of automotive engineers to bring exceptional exterior components to market on time and on budget while collaborating with design, quality, and supply chain teams to ens...
4 weeks ago
Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Topside)
$110K - $130K *
Unlock potential by managing package procurement engineering, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with specifications while collaborating effectively with suppliers, subcontractors, and cross-func...
4 weeks ago
Lead Engineer Stability Analysis-1
$85K - $164K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing reactor safety through advanced thermal-hydraulic stability analyses, collaborating across disciplines to support operational needs and innovative fuel design...
Yesterday
$88K - $105K *
Lead a dynamic engineering team to deliver high-quality project outcomes, ensuring effective communication and integration across all engineering functions while managing schedules, resources, and tec...
3 weeks ago
Mechanical Engineer P5 - Senior
$95K - $115K *
Join a dynamic MEP team to tackle diverse projects, mentor staff, and lead initiatives. This role offers opportunities for professional growth and business development while working on innovative desi...
2 weeks ago
Engineering Manager, EPC Services
$110K - $130K *
Optimize engineering execution and internal capabilities for EPC projects, ensuring alignment with client requirements, quality standards, and financial objectives. Lead a high-performing team while m...
1 week ago
Electrical Engineer - Forward Deployed
$95K - $115K *
Transform your career by deploying cutting-edge electrical systems in maritime environments. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate and troubleshoot technologies, ensuring operational su...
1 week ago
Electrical Engineer - Forward Deployed
$95K - $115K *
Transform maritime technology by deploying innovative electrical systems in real-world environments. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate and troubleshoot complex systems, ensuring mis...
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.