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Aerospace Engineer Contract Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Systems Engineer, Aerospace Systems Engineer, Spacecraft Systems ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Systems Engineer, Aerospace Systems Engineer, Spacecraft Systems ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

SIMILAR CAREER TITLES Satellite Systems Engineer, Aerospace Systems Engineer, Spacecraft Systems ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

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All JobsAerospace Engineer Contract JobsAerospace Engineer Contract Jobs in Reston, VA

Aerospace Engineer Contract information

See Reston, VA salary details

$43.8K

$113.2K

$172K

How much do aerospace engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineer contract in Reston, VA is $113,231.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,200.00 and $138,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineer Contract vs Aerospace Engineer Full-Time?

AspectAerospace Engineer ContractAerospace Engineer Full-Time
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related fieldSame as contract; often requires additional certifications for senior roles
Work EnvironmentProject-based, temporary assignments, often on-site or remotePermanent employment, consistent work environment, on-site or office-based
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aerospace firms, government agencies, and contractors for specific projectsEmployed directly by companies or agencies for ongoing roles
Work DurationShort-term, project-specificLong-term, ongoing

In summary, Aerospace Engineer Contract roles are temporary, project-focused positions often requiring similar credentials as full-time roles but offering more flexibility. Full-time aerospace engineers have stable, long-term employment with benefits, working consistently within the same organization.

What are Aerospace Engineer Contracts?

Aerospace engineer contracts refer to temporary or project-based roles where engineers are hired to work on specific aerospace projects or for a set duration. These contracts can involve designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, or related systems and components. Contract aerospace engineers often work for government agencies, private aerospace companies, or as independent consultants. These roles provide flexibility and the opportunity to gain experience on a variety of projects, though they may not offer the same job security or benefits as permanent positions.

What Does a Contract Aerospace Engineer Do?

Contract aerospace engineers are independent contractors who work for aerospace companies on a short- or long-term contract basis. Your specific job duties vary, depending on the scope of the project and the type of company. Responsibilities may include designing parts for airplanes, researching technology for spacecraft and satellites, or developing the tools necessary for making industry parts used in different machinery. Contract aerospace engineers often focus on specific areas, such as mechanical systems or navigation and control components. These positions typically last anywhere from several weeks to a few months; contracts that last longer than a year are relatively rare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Engineer on a contract basis, and why are they important?

To excel as a contract Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and experience with industry standards like FAA or EASA regulations. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks), simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB), and project management systems is essential, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Six Sigma can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and communication skills help you integrate quickly into new teams and projects. These competencies ensure you can deliver innovative and compliant solutions efficiently within the often tight timelines of contract work.

What are some common challenges faced by aerospace engineers working on contract positions, and how can they be managed?

Aerospace engineers on contract positions often face challenges such as rapidly adapting to new project teams, meeting tight deadlines, and quickly familiarizing themselves with proprietary systems or processes. Managing these challenges involves strong communication skills, proactive learning, and flexibility to integrate seamlessly with diverse team environments. Contract engineers benefit from staying updated on industry software and standards, and establishing clear expectations with supervisors to ensure project goals and timelines are met effectively.
More about Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs in Reston, VA? For Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Aerospace Engineer Contract job openings:
Aerospace Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineer Contract job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,231 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer

Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer

Ventus Solutions

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Ventus Executive Solutions is a dynamic small business at the forefront of innovation and consulting. We believe our employees’ success is integral to our mission, which is why we prioritize work-life balance, personal development, and fostering a sense of belonging. In addition to providing opportunities to thrive, we offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits to attract and retain top talent ready to make a meaningful impact. As part of the Ventus Solutions team, you’ll collaborate with government and industry leaders to develop constructive architecture models that inform decision-making at the highest levels of the Department of Defense. As an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) we value curiosity, collaboration, and excellence, and we’re committed to supporting your professional growth through mentorship, career development, and a culture of continuous learning. Join a team where your ideas matter, your expertise drives impact, and your work advances the mission. 

Ventus Executive Solutions is seeking a skilled Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer to support an innovative program office. You will provide technical support and independent assessments to the Government Program Manager while supporting the development and execution of advanced aerospace technology initiatives. Responsibilities include evaluating technical progress across multiple performers, leading technical interchange meetings and design reviews, supporting experimentation and test activities, developing technical documentation and program briefings, and assisting with transition planning to military Services and Combatant Commands. You will possess extensive experience in GNC systems, flight control, navigation, autopilot technologies, or related aerospace vehicle subsystems and have demonstrated success leading complex technical development efforts within defense research, development, and acquisition environments. Join our innovative team and contribute to impactful national security initiatives. 

Work Location: Onsite: Arlington, VA  

Travel: Up to 25% local and domestic

Clearance: Active Secret required, TS/SCI preferred

Required Experience: 

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical field.
  • Minimum 12 years of professional engineering or scientific experience.
  • 5+ years of experience developing guidance, navigation, and control (GNC), flight control, navigation, autopilot, and/or power electronics systems for aerospace vehicles.
  • Experience supporting a Department of War (DoW) research and development organization (DARPA, SCO, AFRL, JHTO, etc.), acquisition organization, or as a performer supporting such organizations.
  • Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional engineering teams and technical development efforts.
  • Experience supporting technical reviews, technical interchange meetings, experimentation activities, and test programs.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Desired Experience: 

  • Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience supporting the development of hypersonic vehicles, re-entry systems, tactical missile systems, or other high-speed aerospace platforms.
  • Familiarity with Department of Defense programming, requirements development, science and technology initiatives, and acquisition processes.
  • Experience conducting system architecture trades, modeling and simulation activities, verification and validation efforts, or flight test campaigns.
  • Experience supporting transition planning and engagement with military Services, Combatant Commands, and other government stakeholders.

The expected salary range for this position is $150,000 - $200,00. This range represents a good-faith estimate and is not a guarantee; final compensation is determined by factors such as experience, qualifications, and government contract labor rate requirements and may fall outside the stated range. In addition to base pay, Ventus offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare benefits (medical, dental, and vision), ESOP participation, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. 

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