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.
Expert Chief Engineer Technical Advisor - NRG
$146K - $234K *
Lead the charge in providing expert technical guidance and support for program engineering challenges, influencing key stakeholders while enhancing system integration and optimizing performance across...
4 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Join a team that's dedicated to aviation integration and project management. Leverage your engineering expertise to coordinate multiple projects, ensuring seamless system integration and adherence to...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Explore new engineering solutions while collaborating with government teams to enhance project deliveries, assessments, and technical support. This role demands expertise in advancing engineering stan...
3 weeks ago
Senior Advanced Combustion Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Join us to lead advanced combustion engineering efforts, driving combustor design, analysis, and testing. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance engine performance and support innovative t...
2 days ago
Senior / Lead Robotics & Automation Engineer
$110K - $130K *
Engineer cutting-edge automated manufacturing systems, integrating robotics and software to create intelligent production environments. Drive innovation from concept to commissioning, enhancing effici...
1 week ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive innovative mechanical designs by analyzing customer needs, creating detailed CAD models, and collaborating across departments to ensure efficient production and delivery of high-quality packagin...
1 week ago
$130K - $155K *
Shape the future of electrical engineering by leading strategic projects, fostering client relationships, and driving team growth. Leverage your expertise to innovate and elevate engineering practices...
4 days ago
$180K - $190K *
Analyze and support systems engineering activities for Government training systems, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate documentation and verification planning under senior en...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Shape the future of energy by leveraging your expertise in EMT modeling and power system studies. Collaborate with leadership to drive innovative solutions and mentor staff while engaging with clients...
6 days ago
$70K - $117K *
Unlock potential by leveraging your expertise in structural engineering to ensure the integrity and safety of marine vessels. Collaborate with a dynamic team to support critical naval operations and e...
1 week ago
$130K - $155K *
Shape the future of electrical engineering by leading strategic projects, fostering client relationships, and driving team growth in a dynamic environment focused on innovation and excellence in the A...
4 days ago
$135K - $160K *
Join a team that's redefining mechanical design for autonomous vehicles. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you'll lead the development of complex components, ensuring robust performance in dynamic mari...
1 week ago
Mechanical Engineer (Supporting Forward Operations)
$80K - $95K *
Transform the future of defense by leading the transition of sustainment capabilities to Allied Partners, enhancing their equipment maintenance competencies while managing technical projects and train...
6 days ago
$100K - $120K *
Shape the future of manufacturing by managing diverse capital projects, driving improvements in productivity and reliability while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure successful projec...
6 days ago
Principal Engineering Technical Project Manager (TPM)
$140K - $188K *
Lead the execution of complex aerospace and defense engineering projects, ensuring financial control and timely delivery. Collaborate across teams to manage risks, track integration, and optimize sche...
6 days ago
Principal Mechanical Engineer (Starship)
$130K - $155K *
Engineer cutting-edge mechanical systems for revolutionary aerospace projects. Collaborate across disciplines to design, test, and iterate on flight hardware while empowering hands-on engagement with...
4 weeks ago
Senior Principal Process Engineer
$111K - $167K *
Elevate operational excellence by leading process control activities, enhancing automation systems, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize production efficiency and safety in a dyna...
3 days ago
$108K - $138K *
Lead the charge in executing solid rocket motor design and manufacturing programs, overseeing cost, schedule, and technical performance from proposal through qualification, while ensuring effective co...
3 weeks ago
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Research and Development
$100K - $120K *
Innovate power distribution solutions as a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design and produce cutting-edge systems for global clients, ensuring safety a...
Today
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Research and Development
$110K - $130K *
Innovate mechanical designs for power distribution systems, collaborating with engineering teams to meet global customer needs. Engage in diverse projects, ensuring compliance with safety standards wh...
Today
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Research and Development
$100K - $120K *
Explore a dynamic role as a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, collaborating with teams to innovate power distribution systems. Engage in diverse projects, ensuring compliance with safety standards wh...
Today
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Research and Development
$110K - $130K *
Champion innovative mechanical designs for power distribution systems, collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to meet global customer needs. Drive projects from concept to completion i...
Today
$80K - $95K *
Manage custom equipment design projects for food and beverage clients, guiding initiatives from concept to installation. Leverage technical expertise and project leadership to deliver manufacturable s...
2 days ago
$80K - $95K *
Accelerate your career in water resources management, leading projects and teams. Engage in design, analysis, and communication with clients, while ensuring quality standards and safety in challenging...
3 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform your career by providing engineering and consulting services across diverse projects. Lead investigations, design plans, and ensure compliance while collaborating with clients and teams to d...
2 days 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.