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Accelerator Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Neuroscale AI

Forward Deployed Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

We're backed by top operators and investors , and we're growing fast. Our momentum is further ... features, implementation accelerators, and reference architectures. * Write clear technical ...

Berkley

Principal Data Scientist

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our vision is to enable operating unit profit and growth objectives by designing and delivering ... Establish reusable accelerators: Build and document shared libraries, templates, and design ...

Berkley

Principal Data Scientist

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our vision is to enable operating unit profit and growth objectives by designing and delivering ... Establish reusable accelerators: Build and document shared libraries, templates, and design ...

Deloitte

Technology Strategy Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

Leading strategy and transformation workstreams for clients across business, operating model, and ... proprietary accelerators, and deep technical talent, we help you unlock the promise of the ...

Berkley

Principal Data Scientist

Glen Allen, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our vision is to enable operating unit profit and growth objectives by designing and delivering ... Establish reusable accelerators: Build and document shared libraries, templates, and design ...

Peraton

Business Process Consultant

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$135 - $216/hr

... office environment, operating with the pace and precision required to support the customer ... Experience supporting emerging technology initiatives or innovation accelerators Peraton Overview ...

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All JobsAccelerator Operator JobsAccelerator Operator Jobs in Virginia

Accelerator Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$22

$26

$29

How much do accelerator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for accelerator operator in Virginia is $26.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.05 and $28.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an accelerator operator, and why are they important?

An accelerator operator controls a particle accelerator during an experiment. A particle accelerator is a complex machine used in physics research that conducts charged particles at near light speed in confined beams. As an accelerator operator, you work directly with the physicist or research team running the experiment and ensure that all the parameters of the experiment are accounted for and set. Your duties and responsibilities are to calibrate the systems, review the schedule, make any adjustments to the particle beam before running the test, and help analyze the outcome.

What are some typical challenges an accelerator operator might face during a shift, and how are they addressed?

Accelerator Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, unexpected fluctuations in beam performance, or strict adherence to safety protocols. Addressing these issues requires quick troubleshooting skills, close collaboration with engineers and physicists, and the ability to follow detailed operational procedures. Operators typically document all anomalies and work closely with technical teams to resolve issues efficiently, ensuring minimal downtime and a safe working environment.

What is the difference between Accelerator Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectAccelerator OperatorPump Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, power plants, manufacturing plantsRefineries, chemical plants, water treatment facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEnergy, manufacturing, research facilitiesOil & gas, chemical, water industries

Both Accelerator Operators and Pump Operators require similar certifications and work in industrial environments. However, Accelerator Operators focus on managing particle accelerators or similar equipment, while Pump Operators handle fluid transfer systems. Their roles are distinct but share overlapping skills in safety and technical operation within industrial settings.

How much do accelerator operators make?

Accelerator operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require technical skills and safety certifications, and may work in manufacturing, research facilities, or energy plants.

What does an accelerator operator do?

An accelerator operator is responsible for managing and maintaining particle accelerators used in research or industrial applications. They monitor equipment, ensure safety protocols are followed, and troubleshoot technical issues, often working with control systems and requiring technical training or certifications. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of accelerator facilities and experiments.
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Accelerator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Accelerator Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,530 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer - Launch Pad

Rocket Lab Corporation

Wallops Island, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven history with Electron – the second most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. If you're interested in joining an incredible team in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity. 

HASTE 

HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 2 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations. 

Lead Test & Launch Engineer – Launch Pad

Based out of Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, VA, the Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer are responsible for the end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, including the configuration and operation of related facilities and infrastructure. As a senior operational leader, you will oversee teams of engineers, manage operational projects, and ensure the readiness and capability of your discipline area. You will develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for your systems during mission-critical operations. In this role, you will coordinate across disciplines to resolve complex issues, drive process improvements, and ensure operational procedures and infrastructure scale to support an increasing launch cadence. The Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer balances time between Mission Control operations, team leadership, and strategic planning for future operational capabilities.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Lead and manage a team of Engineers responsible for launch pad ground systems, fluid systems, and infrastructure for Electron and Neutron launch operations 
  • Work in Mission Control as the console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations 
  • Develop and maintain Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for launch pad systems and ground support equipment 
  • Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations 
  • Design and implement Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control 
  • Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for ground systems operations 
  • Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems anomalies 
  • Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities 
  • Develop comprehensive training programs and qualification matrices to ensure operators are prepared for console positions 
  • Lead structured root-cause analysis and corrective action programs for ground systems anomalies 
  • Drive the development of Neutron ground systems operations procedures and testing campaigns 
  • Responsible for leading teams of engineers, managing operational projects, and ensuring the overall readiness and capability of their discipline area.
  • Develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for their systems during mission-critical operations

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical, chemical engineering, or other technical field
  • 5-8+ years of engineering experience in ground systems, industrial controls, fluid systems, or launch operations
  • Proficiency with ground support equipment, industrial control systems (including PLCs and automated sequencing), and launch pad systems
  • Experience with cryogenic systems, pressurization systems, propellant handling, and launch vehicle tanking operations
  • Experience in high-reliability ground systems design, testing, or operations
  • Demonstrated leadership competencies, including change management, conflict resolution, escalation, and effective team management
  • Understanding of hazardous operations and safety protocols for ground systems
  • Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and conducting mission simulations

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
  • Aviation, aircrew, or flight test experience as an alternative background
  • Hands-on experience with launch vehicle ground operations at an active launch site
  • Experience leading ground systems testing programs or static test campaigns
  • Track record of leading teams
  • Solid understanding of fluid systems and high-pressure gas systems
  • Experience developing HMIs for operational monitoring and control systems
  • Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting during live operations

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia's pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Base Pay Range (VA Only)
$110,000—$145,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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