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Aerospace Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Turion Space

Senior Aerospace Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

As a Senior Aerospace Engineer you will lead the design, system trades, integration, and testing of both Independent Research and Development (IRAD) and hosted payload projects. You will also be ...

Turion Space

Senior Aerospace Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

As a Senior Aerospace Engineer you will lead the design, system trades, integration, and testing of both Independent Research and Development (IRAD) and hosted payload projects. You will also be ...

Neon Aerospace

Reliability Test Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $138K/yr

Aerospace is at a turning point - costs are rising, supply chains are strained, and old ways of ... This is a hands-on engineering role focused on validating real hardware under real operating ...

Neon Aerospace

Reliability Test Engineer

Irvine, CA

$110K - $138K/yr

This role supports development programs spanning aerospace actuation systems, thermal management ... This is a hands-on engineering role focused on validating real hardware under real operating ...

Kirkhill Inc.

Rotation Summer Internship

Brea, CA

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered products and systems principally for the aerospace and defense markets. Kirkhill, Inc. a wholly-owned subsidiary of Transdigm, is a leading ...

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All JobsAerospace Engineer JobsAerospace Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Aerospace Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$43.8K

$113.3K

$172.1K

How much do aerospace engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineer in Riverside, CA is $113,339.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $138,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineering jobs pay 500,000?

In aerospace engineering, senior roles such as aerospace engineering managers, chief engineers, or specialized consultants can earn salaries of $500,000 or more, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in large aerospace companies, defense contractors, or in roles requiring expertise in systems design, project management, or business development.

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 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.

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.
More about Aerospace Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Aerospace Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Aerospace Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Aerospace Engineer job openings:
Aerospace Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,339 per year, or $54.5 per hour.
Senior Aerospace Engineer

Senior Aerospace Engineer

Turion Space

Irvine, CA • On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

At Turion Space, we're building spacecraft to secure Earth and expand humanity's reach beyond it. As a Senior Aerospace Engineer you will lead the design, system trades, integration, and testing of both Independent Research and Development (IRAD) and hosted payload projects. You will also be responsible for interfacing with the systems engineering team to ensure requirements compliance of our spacecraft payloads.
This is a full-time, exempt position based on-site at our Irvine, California headquarters.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and Development: Independently own the design and development of payload systems, including but not limited to defining system requirements, conducting analysis on system performance, and driving the determination of system specifications.
  • Integration: Integrate payload systems into Turion's spacecraft platform. Ensure compatibility and successful integration of payloads with spacecraft systems and subsystems.
  • Testing: Develop and execute test plans for payload systems. Conduct performance testing, including functional, environmental, and operational tests, to ensure payloads meet mission requirements.
  • Analysis: Perform system analysis and simulations to assess payload performance and reliability. Use modeling and simulation tools to predict and assess payload behavior.
  • Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive documentation for payload systems or operational software, including design reports, test plans, and technical specifications. Ensure all documentation is accurate and compliant with industry standards.
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software engineers, systems engineers, and mission planners, to coordinate payload development efforts as well as address and resolve integration and performance issues. Work with business development to drive proposals
  • Support: Assist operations as the payload subject matter expert.Provide technical support during payload integration and testing phases. Address and resolve issues that arise during system development and mission execution.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Astronautical Engineering, Computer Systems, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in an Aerospace, Payload, or Electrical Engineering role with a primary focus on optics, sensor development, scientific instrument development and/or research & development projects.
  • Experience working with aerospace or space technology sectors, including understanding of the unique requirements and challenges associated with payload systems for space missions.
  • Proficiency with engineering tools and software for simulation and analysis (e.g. Python, Matlab, CAD, Zeemax and/or FreeFlyer).
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to address complex technical challenges and develop effective solutions.
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail in designing, testing, and documenting payload systems.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders.
  • Must be able to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree in Aerospace/Astronautical Engineering, Computer Systems, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or a related field.
  • Strong knowledge of payload system and/or software/electrical design, integration, and testing.
  • Experience designing, developing and testing robotics or spacecraft perception and computer vision systems
  • Experience in image processing and computer vision for object detection or radiometric analysis
  • Experience with Electro-Optical payload development, integration and testing
  • Proven ability to drive innovation and improvements in payload systems design and integration processes.
  • Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines

Senior Aerospace / Senior Payload Engineer: $140,000 - $180,000 USD
ITAR Requirements:
This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:
  • Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
  • Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan with a 3% Employer Direct Contribution to help you plan for your future.
  • Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.
  • Parental Leave: Paid parental leave following the birth of a newborn or adoption.
  • Emotional Wellbeing: A no-cost Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your household's emotional health and wellbeing.
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing internal training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.
  • Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment.

We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.
Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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