Principal Engineer – Propulsion

RTX

. Apply or develop advanced technologies, scientific principles, theories, and concepts for systems integration of propulsion, thrusters, controllers, software, mechanical and electrical interfaces into missile systems and space vehicles .

Posted 10/20/2026full-timeUnited StatesLead💰 $107,500 - $204,500 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in propulsion technology, including solid and air-breathing propulsion systems, with a strong focus on systems integration and project management. Capable of leading collaborative efforts across multiple engineering disciplines while ensuring compliance with DoD standards and requirements.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Propulsion Technology ExpertiseSolid Propulsion System DevelopmentProject Engineering SkillsSupplier Collaboration ExperienceActive Security Clearance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Solid Propulsion SystemsAir-Breathing Propulsion SystemsHigh-Speed Combustion MechanicsCompressible Fluid DynamicsInlet Geometry DesignExhaust Geometry DesignEarned Value Management SystemProposal ManagementTechnical Presentation DevelopmentSystems Integration

Soft Skills

Collaborative LeadershipProblem SolvingCommunication SkillsCustomer Engagement

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. Government-Issued Security ClearanceDoD Secret Clearance

Industry Keywords

Missile SystemsSpace VehiclesManufacturing ProcessesSubcontract ManagementTechnical CapabilitiesDoD Compliance

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Assembly

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Apply or develop advanced technologies, scientific principles, theories, and concepts for systems integration of propulsion, thrusters, controllers, software, mechanical and electrical interfaces into missile systems and space vehicles
Participate in development and production programs across Raytheon product lines
Review manufacturing processes and resolve problems
Work directly with subcontractors on solid rocket motor propulsion system design and manufacturing
Collaborate with program management on long-range planning for technological research and advancements
Serve as a key spokesperson for program technical capabilities and future directions
Manage propulsion system development projects and propulsion subcontracts
Review and disposition subcontract data and change requests
Oversee supplier operations
Develop and deliver technical presentations to management and government
Interface frequently with customers to identify user needs
Support new business acquisition
Independently uncover and resolve issues in operational missile program development and implementation
Travel, including internationally, to provide supplier support

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and 8 years of prior relevant experience OR an Advanced degree and 5 years of relevant experience
Eight (8) years of experience in propulsion technology and its application to solid or air breathing propulsion systems
Experience in the development of solid propulsion systems from conceptual design through final test / assembly
Ability to obtain and maintain a US security clearance prior to the start date
U.S. citizenship required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Active and transferable U.S. government-issued security clearance required prior to start date
DoD Secret clearance; ability to obtain interim clearance
Advanced degree preferred
Ten (10) or more years of directly related experience preferred
Experience with air-breathing, solid, and/or liquid propulsion systems
Systems knowledge for propulsion requirements development and flow-down to subcomponent levels
Experience with highspeed combustion mechanics
Experience designing and developing inlet geometry
Experience with compressible fluid dynamics (CFD, NPSS, etc.)
Experience designing and developing exhaust geometry
Project engineering skills and experience using Earned Value Management System
Proposal/cost account management and project/team leadership experience
Ability to develop and lead collaborative efforts across structural, thermal, aerodynamics, and low-observables disciplines
Supplier collaboration and oversight experience, including specifications and statements of work (SOW)
Working knowledge or experience with missile design/development, production support, and integration
Experience with DoD customers and/or contractor executives and technical leadership
Active Secret or Top Secret Clearance preferred

Benefits

Comp & perks

Healthcare benefits
Wellness benefits
Retirement benefits
Work/life benefits
Parental and paternal leave
Flexible work schedules
Achievement awards
Educational assistance
Child/adult backup care
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Short-term disability
Long-term disability
401(k) match
Flexible spending accounts
Employee assistance program
Employee Scholar Program
Paid time off
Holidays
Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be available
International travel opportunities for supplier support