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Aerospace Engineering Nasa Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer (NASA HHPC)

Houston, TX · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related ... Familiarity with NASA Johnson Space Center engineering and configuration management tools (e.g ...

HLS Navigation Aerospace Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

We are searching for highly qualified candidates to support NASA's Flight Dynamics Team in the ... Qualifications A degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related field ...

HLS Navigation Aerospace Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

We are searching for highly qualified candidates to support NASA's Flight Dynamics Team in the ... Qualifications A degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related field ...

Showing results 41-60

Aerospace Engineering Nasa information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace engineering nasa jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineering nasa in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineering Nasa vs Aerospace Engineering Contractor?

AspectAerospace Engineering NasaAerospace Engineering Contractor
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace engineering, often with security clearancesSimilar educational background, may require specific certifications depending on client
Work EnvironmentGovernment facilities, research centers, mission controlVarious locations, including private offices, labs, or client sites
Employer & IndustryNASA, government agenciesPrivate aerospace firms, defense contractors
Work FocusResearch, space missions, government projectsDesign, development, testing for clients' aerospace projects

Both roles require strong aerospace engineering skills and similar credentials, but NASA engineers focus on government-led space missions and research, while contractors work on client-specific projects across private industry.

What does an aerospace engineer at NASA do?

Aerospace engineers at NASA design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on cutting-edge projects such as space exploration missions, satellite systems, and advanced aeronautics. Their responsibilities can include research, simulations, materials testing, and ensuring that all aerospace systems meet rigorous safety and performance standards. Collaboration with other scientists and engineers is common, and tasks may range from theoretical design to hands-on testing and analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace engineer at NASA?

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineer at NASA, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, advanced mathematics, and physics, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with computational design software (such as MATLAB, CATIA, or ANSYS), simulation tools, and knowledge of relevant industry certifications are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help individuals excel in this highly collaborative and innovative environment. These competencies are crucial for developing safe, efficient, and cutting-edge aerospace technologies essential to NASA's mission.

What are some common challenges that aerospace engineers face when working on NASA projects?

Aerospace Engineers at NASA often encounter challenges such as managing complex project timelines, adhering to strict safety and reliability standards, and integrating cutting-edge technologies into their designs. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams is essential, as projects typically involve specialists in propulsion, materials, avionics, and systems engineering. Additionally, engineers must navigate rigorous testing and validation phases, ensuring that every component meets NASA's high expectations for performance and mission success.

Does NASA hire aerospace engineers?

Yes, NASA hires aerospace engineers to work on spacecraft, aircraft, and related technologies. These positions often require a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, along with skills in design, analysis, and testing. NASA offers opportunities for engineers at various experience levels, often requiring security clearances and adherence to federal employment standards.

How hard is it to get a job as an aerospace engineer?

Securing a position as an aerospace engineer at NASA is highly competitive due to the organization's prestige and specialized requirements. Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related fields, strong technical skills, relevant experience, and often advanced degrees or security clearances. Demonstrating expertise in design, analysis, and problem-solving increases the chances of employment.
More about Aerospace Engineering Nasa jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerospace Engineering Nasa jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Engineering Nasa job openings:
What states have the most Aerospace Engineering Nasa jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerospace Engineering Nasa jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineering Nasa job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer II

Firefly Aerospace

Cedar Park, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Firefly Aerospace rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE

Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.


SUMMARY

Firefly Thermal Engineers apply advanced simulation and heat transfer expertise to solve complex spacecraft thermal challenges from concept development through flight operations. Engineers in this role independently own subsystem thermal analyses, develop validated thermal models, and influence engineering decisions through high-quality analytical work.

Successful candidates are expected to drive thermal analyses from problem definition through documentation while collaborating across multiple engineering disciplines.


RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Independently develop and maintain subsystem and vehicle-level spacecraft thermal models.
  • Own thermal analyses from model setup through documentation with minimal oversight.
  • Execute thermal trade studies supporting design, integration, testing, and mission operations.
  • Develop thermal control solutions including MLI, radiator sizing, heater strategies, coatings, and other passive and active thermal control technologies.
  • Coordinate thermal environments with internal engineering teams and external customers.
  • Organize and support testing, including vehicle-level thermal vacuum testing.
  • Support the thermal control subsystem on console during launch operations.
  • Correlate analytical models using thermal vacuum and environmental test data.
  • Break large analytical efforts into actionable tasks while managing priorities across multiple programs.
  • Document analysis results for internal and customer design reviews.
  • Mentor entry-level engineers by reviewing models, analyses, and reports.
  • Identify model sensitivities, uncertainties, and technical risks while recommending mitigation strategies.
  • Contribute to process improvements, automation, and modeling best practices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field
  • Approximately 3–8 years of spacecraft or aerospace thermal analysis experience
  • Strong experience with Thermal Desktop and related thermal analysis software
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft thermal control systems
  • Experience correlating analytical models with test data
  • Working knowledge of Python and MATLAB
  • Excellent technical communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to independently execute complex engineering analyses

Desired

  • M.S. degree
  • Experience with ANSYS SpaceClaim, NX, or Simcenter
  • Experience developing thermal test plans and coordinating thermal vacuum tests
  • Familiarity with NASA spacecraft thermal standards
  • Experience supporting spacecraft through integration and environmental testing

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