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The differences between spacecraft systems engineers and propulsion engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a spacecraft systems engineer and a propulsion engineer. Additionally, a propulsion engineer has an average salary of $98,475, which is higher than the $96,404 average annual salary of a spacecraft systems engineer.
The top three skills for a spacecraft systems engineer include systems engineering, MATLAB and spacecraft systems. The most important skills for a propulsion engineer are propulsion system, CAD, and MATLAB.
| Spacecraft Systems Engineer | Propulsion Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $96,404 | $98,475 |
| Hourly rate | $46.35 | $47.34 |
| Growth rate | 6% | 6% |
| Number of jobs | 78,004 | 45,629 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 75% | Bachelor's Degree, 72% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A spacecraft system engineer develops simulations and performs analysis. They create design documents and work with teams to carry out projects. They must also maintain amicable relationships with customers.
A Propulsion Engineer is responsible for inspecting the condition and stability of rocket engines and control systems within the aerospace industry. They create engine systems by utilizing various software applications and tools for construction. They also identify cost-reduction materials and techniques by negotiating contracts and agreements with trusted suppliers and vendors. A Propulsion Engineer must have excellent technical and mechanical skills to resolve engine issues and conduct preventive maintenance to prevent operational delays and potential hazards.
Spacecraft systems engineers and propulsion engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Spacecraft Systems Engineer | Propulsion Engineer | |
| Average salary | $96,404 | $98,475 |
| Salary range | Between $72,000 And $128,000 | Between $70,000 And $138,000 |
| Highest paying City | - | - |
| Highest paying state | - | - |
| Best paying company | - | - |
| Best paying industry | - | - |
There are a few differences between a spacecraft systems engineer and a propulsion engineer in terms of educational background:
| Spacecraft Systems Engineer | Propulsion Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 75% | Bachelor's Degree, 72% |
| Most common major | Aerospace Engineering | Mechanical Engineering |
| Most common college | Stanford University | Georgia Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between spacecraft systems engineers' and propulsion engineers' demographics:
| Spacecraft Systems Engineer | Propulsion Engineer | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 90.3% Female, 9.7% | Male, 96.0% Female, 4.0% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.2% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 11.2% Asian, 10.9% White, 68.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 4.2% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 11.4% Asian, 10.9% White, 68.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |