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Aerospace Engineering Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Aerospace Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Minimum 5 years of related experience and Bachelor's degree (preferably Aerospace Engineering, Physics) * 5+ years of experience in electrical component design and/or system operations; hands-on ...

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Aerospace Engineering Physics information

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How much do aerospace engineering physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace engineering physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do aerospace engineering physicists typically collaborate with engineers and other specialists during a project?

Aerospace engineering physicists often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including aerospace engineers, materials scientists, and computer simulation experts. Their role is to bridge the gap between fundamental physics concepts and practical engineering solutions, such as optimizing aerodynamics or developing new propulsion systems. Effective collaboration involves regular design reviews, sharing simulation data, and integrating theoretical models into engineering workflows. This teamwork ensures that projects benefit from both a deep understanding of physical principles and practical engineering expertise.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineering Physics vs Aerospace Engineering?

AspectAerospace Engineering PhysicsAerospace Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics or Aerospace Physics; often includes engineering fundamentalsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; includes extensive engineering coursework
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, aerospace R&D centersDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, testing sites
Industry UsageResearch, development, theoretical modelingDesign, manufacturing, testing of aircraft and spacecraft

While Aerospace Engineering Physics focuses on applying physics principles to aerospace problems, Aerospace Engineering emphasizes designing and building aircraft and spacecraft. Both roles may overlap in research and development, but Aerospace Engineering is more engineering and application-oriented, whereas Aerospace Engineering Physics leans toward theoretical and experimental physics in aerospace contexts.

What is Aerospace Engineering Physics?

Aerospace Engineering Physics is an interdisciplinary field that combines principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the design, development, and analysis of aircraft and spacecraft. Professionals in this area apply advanced concepts from mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and aerodynamics to create and improve aerospace technologies. The field prepares graduates to work on cutting-edge projects in aviation, space exploration, and defense, often requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineering Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in aerospace engineering or engineering physics. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or CATIA), computational modeling, and relevant industry certifications are highly valuable. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, analyzing, and optimizing complex aerospace systems to meet safety, efficiency, and innovation standards.
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineering Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Space Systems and Orbit Determination Operations Engineer

Space Systems and Orbit Determination Operations Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace's strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The divisionleveragesa broad array of engineering disciplines against a dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities.

The Space Control and Awareness Department (SCAD) is seeking a new team member to supportspacemission analyses and operations.SCAD performs concept development, systems engineering, mission support, architecture analysis, algorithm development, and evaluation support for national security space customers.Mission areas includespace domain awareness (SDA), positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT),command and control (C2), electronic warfare (EW),and space protection and security; key technologies includeKalmanfilteringandorbit determination (OD)algorithms,as well asradar, electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) sensors.

Work Model:This is a 100% on-site positionlocatedin Colorado Springs, CO, El Segundo, CA, or Chantilly VA.

WhatYou'llBe Doing

  • Provide support forspacedomain awareness andPNTmissionareasthroughanalysis, algorithm development, systemsengineering, and modeling and simulation(M&S).

  • Advise and support key stakeholders and government customersbyplanning,executing, and reporting on analytic studies

  • Provideastrodynamicanalytical support, algorithm development, systems engineering and architecting, and modeling and simulation analysis for space surveillance systemsand missions.

  • Conduct analysesleveragingin-house, commercial, and government-provided M&S and analysiscapabilities

  • Develop system specifications, conduct tests, support exercises, and evaluate training requirements for space systems

  • Perform orbit determination, target tracking,andnavigation analyses using Kalman filtering andotherestimation techniques

  • AnalyzeEO, IR,radar, and passive radio frequency sensor concepts, architectures, and algorithms

  • Conduct space protection, threat susceptibility, vulnerability, and resiliency assessments

  • Developproficiencyacross SDA,PNT,BMC2, and space control mission areas

  • Independently evaluate, select, adapt, and developtechniques and approaches to solve novel problems

  • Collaborate with inter-organizational teams and external customers on matters of technical importance

What you need to be successful

MinimumRequirements

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, orrelated technical discipline

  • Two (2) years of applicable aerospace engineering, physics, or mathematics experience

  • Experience inM&S,analysis,and/or algorithm development

  • Software development experienceandproven capabilitiesin at leastone ofthe following programming languages; Java, C++, Python, MATLAB, C, or FORTRAN

  • Experience with and knowledge of filtering algorithms and state estimation techniques

  • Stronginterpersonal andcommunicationskills. Ability to work independently and interact effectively with Aerospace and contractor personnel

  • Abilityto obtain andmaintaina security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship isrequiredto obtain a security clearance.

How you can stand out

  • Advanceddegree in engineering, physics, mathematics, orother related technical discipline

  • Four(4) years of applicable aerospace engineering, physics, or mathematics experience

  • Experience with orbit determinationand satellite tracking

  • Experience withGNSSand PNT applications

  • Advanced knowledge offiltering algorithms and state estimation techniques

  • Background inmodeling of EOand radarsensor systems,particularlythe Space Surveillance Networksensors

  • Experiencein analysis ofdirected energy threat mitigation concepts for EO and Infrared IR sensors

  • Familiarity withmachinelearning andartificialintelligencefor space systems

  • Experience in researching,developing,and applying advanced and innovative techniques for algorithm development for directed energy threat detection and reporting

  • Current TS/SCI clearance

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$86,600.00 - $129,800.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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