Propulsion engineer
Design, build and look after systems that help aircrafts move. You could build eco-friendly engines or produce greener fuel.
About the job
What it's like
Propulsion engineers design the systems that make vehicles, aircraft and spacecraft move. You'll work with the latest technology, turning ideas into powerful engines and thrusters.
You'll create and improve propulsion systems, from jet engines to rocket motors. Using your creativity and technical skills, you'll solve complex problems and see your designs in action. The work is exciting, especially when you test a new engine or see it used in real-world missions.
You might work on designing fuel-efficient engines for planes, developing electric propulsion for satellites or testing rocket boosters. Propulsion engineers work in industries like aerospace, automotive, marine and defense. Some specialise in areas like how engines burn fuel, electric propulsion or how fluids move, while others focus on testing or using computer simulations.
So, are you ready to help make air travel smarter and more sustainable?
Your tasks might include:
designing and modelling engine components using CAD software
running simulations to test engine performance under different conditions
analysing test data to improve efficiency and reliability
selecting materials that can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures
collaborating with teams to integrate propulsion systems into vehicles
troubleshooting issues during engine assembly and testing
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
develop cleaner, more efficient engines for aircraft or vehicles
research alternative fuels and electric propulsion systems
Hours
You’ll usually work Monday to Friday.
You may need to work longer hours or at irregular times to meet deadlines.
Evening or weekend work may be required during key project phases.
Environment
Your week could see you moving between laboratories, offices and busy production floors.
Depending on your project, you might work on aerospace engines, marine propulsion systems or renewable energy turbines.
Travel
You'll often need to travel to different sites to inspect or test vehicles or aircraft.
Travel frequency can vary depending on project needs, with some weeks involving multiple site visits.
Extended travel may be required if you're supporting testing or commissioning at remote locations.
Explore more information about this job
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- working with technology
- working with numbers
- verbal communication
- understanding
- researching
- problem solving
- designing
- building relationships
- attention to detail
- analysing
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Engineering Science
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Aerospace Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Aeronautical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechatronics
Physics
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Mechanical Engineering
Aeronautical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Engineering Systems
Aircraft Engineering
Applied Science
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover MAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Discover GAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a propulsion engineer. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
It will help to join a professional engineering institution. The Engineering Council has a list of recognised bodies you can become a member of.
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