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Aerospace Engineer Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

As a Guidance, Navigation & Control engineer, you will design the algorithms, simulations, and onboard autonomy that keep every satellite precisely pointed and stable so the payload can serve ...

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Aerospace Engineer information

See Renton, WA salary details

$47.2K

$122.2K

$185.6K

How much do aerospace engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineer in Renton, WA is $122,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,500.00 and $149,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Aerospace Engineers Do?

Aerospace Engineers manufacture and design aircraft, satellites, missiles, aeronautical and astronautical products and technologies for development, research, defense, and commercial use. They document and evaluate the production of aircraft and aircraft technologies, including commercial and military airplanes, propulsion systems, navigation systems, instrumentation, communication, and thermodynamic and aerodynamic materials used in flight. Aerospace Engineers use highly complex computer systems and software to model, design, evaluate, and simulate parts, products, and vehicles in order to determine if proposals are financially feasible and whether designs will meet regulatory and safety standards. They confer with each other on large-scale projects that require group input, completing a multitude of tasks on a single project through the shared duties of many engineers.

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

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid background in aerodynamics, propulsion, materials science, and systems engineering, typically backed by a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and industry certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in collaborative and innovative environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing safe, efficient, and cutting-edge aerospace systems that meet rigorous industry standards.

What will I do as an aerospace engineer?

An aerospace engineer designs, develops, tests, and supervises the manufacturing of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They use principles of aerodynamics, materials science, and propulsion systems, often working with computer-aided design (CAD) software and adhering to safety and regulatory standards. The role typically requires strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering tools and regulations.

What does an aerospace engineer do?

An aerospace engineer designs, develops, tests, and helps manufacture aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on improving flight safety, fuel efficiency, speed, and the design of aerospace products. Aerospace engineers often specialize in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, or structural design and typically work for companies in the aviation, defense, or space exploration industries.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAerospace EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace or aeronautical engineering; often a Professional Engineer (PE) licenseBachelor's in mechanical engineering; PE license optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning aircraft, spacecraft, satellites; working in labs, design offices, and manufacturingDesigning machinery, engines, HVAC systems; working in factories, labs, and offices
Industry UsageAerospace, defense, space explorationAutomotive, manufacturing, energy, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

In summary, aerospace engineers specialize in designing and developing aircraft and spacecraft, often requiring specific aerospace credentials and working in specialized environments. Mechanical engineers have a broader focus on machinery and systems across various industries, with more general credentials. The key difference lies in their industry focus and the types of projects they handle.

Can I make 200k as an aerospace engineer?

Senior aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying industries or companies can earn salaries around or above $200,000 annually. Entry-level or mid-career aerospace engineers typically earn less, with salaries increasing with specialization, certifications, and geographic location. Achieving a $200,000 salary often requires leadership roles, project management, or working in defense or aerospace sectors with high compensation packages.

What kind of jobs do aerospace engineers get?

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They often work in research and development, manufacturing, or testing environments, using tools like CAD software and adhering to safety and industry standards. Employment can be found in government agencies, defense contractors, and private aerospace companies.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and systems, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in the aerospace industry or at major defense contractors. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing and typically requires advanced degrees and specialized certifications.

What are some common challenges aerospace engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Aerospace engineers often collaborate with professionals from fields like electrical, mechanical, and software engineering, which can present communication and coordination challenges. Navigating different technical languages, aligning project goals, and integrating diverse components require strong teamwork and adaptability. Successful aerospace engineers proactively build cross-functional relationships, participate in regular project meetings, and stay open to feedback to ensure seamless integration of all systems. These collaborative skills are just as essential as technical expertise in bringing complex aerospace projects to completion.
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineer jobs in Renton, WA? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineer jobs in Renton, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Engineer jobs in Renton, WA? For Aerospace Engineer jobs in Renton, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for Aerospace Engineer jobs? Cities near Renton, WA with the most Aerospace Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineer job openings in Renton, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,199 per year, or $58.7 per hour.
Aerospace Systems Engineer III

Aerospace Systems Engineer III

Blue Origin

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit.

The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on development, manufacturing, and operation of satellite systems to address one of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space mobility. As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will apply your broad multi-disciplinary engineering knowledge, skills, and methods to help ensure our spacecraft satisfies the needs of our customers through rigorous systems engineering practices. As part our Blue Ring Spacecraft Systems Engineering team you will help ensure that requirements, system designs and operations are shaped to meet program needs. You will assist in the definition and verification of system requirements, interfaces, architecture, and con ops. Finally, you will work with all program interfaces including Assembly, Integration, & Test (AI&T), Mission Systems, Launch Vehicle, Payloads, and Mission Operations.

The position requires strong collaboration within the SSE team and across the entire program. In this fast-paced and dynamic environment, you will contribute to innovative solutions while demonstrating personal leadership, technical competence and judgement, and a commitment to the highest technical standards.

Special Mentions:

  • Travel expected up to 10% of the time
  • Top Secret clearance desired
  • Experience and familiarity with flight software desired

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Work with the program's Lead Systems Engineer to ensure compliance with design standards, processes, and general best practices.
  • Apply a variety of technical principles and tools in Systems Engineering such as CONOPs development, requirements definition and analysis, and interface definition.
  • Decompose high-level requirements into lower-level system architecture, system design requirements, and functional block diagrams.
  • Work with subsystems to ensure proper requirements definition, verification and validation plans, consistency with system and mission objectives
  • Coordinate with specialty engineering functions in support of subsystem development teams.
  • Oversee verification and validation strategies, plans and processes to ensure software and hardware components, and the integrated spacecraft subsystems will meet system requirements and mission goals.
  • Create and oversee the execution of test plans, procedures and generation of results reports.
  • Collaborate with other program elements (I&T, ground systems, flight operations, mission management, and systems architecture) to understand their needs and create holistic solutions.
  • Identify and assist in the management of technical, schedule and cost risks.
  • Work with the flight software team to resolve implementation issues, review the software development processes, link their development to L3 and L4 requirements and needed functional behaviors.
  • Asist in the planning and develop of system-level verication methods and events.
  • Support and collaborate with the Assembly, Integration and Test team in developing test procedures and scripts.
  • Support integration activities "on the oor" in the spacecraft assembly facility.
  • Asist with proposals based on knowledge of spacecraft capabilities and functions.
  • Manage technical performance measures for the overall vehicle.
  • Participate in gated program reviews and drive subsequent actions to closure.
  • Drive process improvements with a sense of ownership and urgency

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a B.S. degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace engineering or equivalent technical field.
  • At least 5 years of relevant experience in systems engineering, preferably in the space industry.
  • Demonstrated understanding of systems engineering fundamentals and experience in multiple system lifecycle phases.
  • Successful candidates in this role typically have 5+ years of related experience in the design, development, and flight test of aerospace systems, preferably spacecraft.
  • Experience developing an integrated system with depth in one or more spacecraft subsystems, and/or system design and integration.
  • Experience in definition of space system requirements and concept definitions that span a broad range of mission objectives.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • M.S. degree in a relevant technical field
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance preferred
  • Domain experience with spacecraft system and subsystem functions, interfaces, and communication protocols (i.e. serial, 1553, Ethernet, embedded software, etc.).
  • Experience defining and performing complex trade studies
  • Experience with design, development, and certification of spaceflight systems
  • Experience with logical and physical architecture definition and decomposition
  • Experience using hardware or software testbeds and lab environments for software and system verification.

Compensation Range for:

CA applicants is $121,023.00 - $169,432.20 CO applicants is $110,938.00 - $155,312.85 WA applicants is $121,023.00 - $169,432.20

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.


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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000