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Aerospace Engineer Jobs in Slidell, LA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Kiln, MS · On-site

$83K - $110K/yr

No aerospace experience required--we welcome fresh graduates as well as those with hands-on ... About the Role As a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer, you will work with test stands and test ...

We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ... The Senior Sourcing Engineer will serve as the primary technical liaison between engineering and ...

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Aerospace Engineer information

See Slidell, LA salary details

$36.4K

$94.1K

$143K

How much do aerospace engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineer in Slidell, LA is $94,143.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $114,800.00 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 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 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 kind of jobs do aerospace engineers do?

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on improving aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software and adhering to safety and industry standards. Their work can involve research, manufacturing, and testing in laboratories or on production floors.

What cities near Slidell, LA are hiring for Aerospace Engineer jobs?

Cities near Slidell, LA with the most Aerospace Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineer job openings in Slidell, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,143 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer (pipeline)

Picayune, MS


Rocket Lab Corporation
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees

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

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$106K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time. 

SENIOR / PRINCIPAL PROPULSION ENIGNEER

As Senior/Principal Propulsion Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. You will take ownership of subsystems and engine operation, driving design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness. You will execute testing campaigns, analyze data, improve existing evaluation capability and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations.

This role demands technical expertise, strong autonomy, and the ability to align teams and projects to achieve program goals. Principal Engineers will additionally drive value to teams outside their group, influencing cross-functional efforts and contributing to the broader success of the Neutron program.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
  • Develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
  • Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
  • Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams, resolving competing priorities and ensuring alignment with program goals.
  • Mentor and guide engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
  • Work with manufacturing, testing and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs, operation, and resolve issues each part of the engine lifecycle.

Please note: This position can be hired as a Senior Propulsion Engineer I, Senior Propulsion Engineer II or Principal Propulsion Level.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER I: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
  • Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER II: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
  • Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A PRINCIPAL PROPULSION ENGINEER: 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
  • Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
  • Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
  • Experience with ox-rich staged combustion systems and Methyl/LOX propellants.
  • Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and hydraulics.
  • Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
  • Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production.

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

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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