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Aerospace Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Engineer Position Type: Full-time (ON-SITE) Position Location: Chantilly, VA Clearance ... Develop and maintain physics-based simulation models of spacecraft systems, including structures ...

B.S. or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, Physics, or a related field. Nice-to-have * Scripting in Python or Matlab. * Systems-engineering experience. * Experience with IR-imaging systems or ...

S. or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, Physics, or a related field. Nice-to-have * Scripting in Python or Matlab. * Mechanical CAD (SolidWorks preferred). * Experience with IR-imaging systems or ...

GNC Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * 1+ years of software development experience in either C++ or Python PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE * Master ...

Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * Software development experience in either C++ or Python PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Some preferred ...

Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * Software development experience in either C++ or Python PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Some preferred ...

Master's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or Computational Physics Nice If You Have: * Experience ...

Aerospace Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$86K - $198K/yr

Master's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or Computational Physics Nice If You Have: * Experience ...

Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * Software development experience in either C++ or Python PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: * Some preferred ...

Aerospace Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Master's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or Computational Physics Nice If You Have: * Experience ...

S. Citizenship Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline ...

Citizenship Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline from an ABET ...

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Aerospace Physics information

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How much do aerospace physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace 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.

What is aerospace physics?

An Aerospace Physics job involves applying the principles of physics to the study and advancement of aerospace systems, including aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites. Professionals in this field work on improving aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials, and overall flight dynamics. They may be involved in research, design, testing, and analysis to enhance the performance and safety of aerospace technologies. Aerospace physicists often collaborate with engineers and researchers in industries such as defense, aviation, and space exploration.

What do aerospace physics professionals do?

Aerospace Physics professionals often work on projects involving the analysis and development of propulsion systems, aerodynamics research, materials testing, and spacecraft or aircraft component design. Their daily responsibilities may include running simulations, conducting experiments in wind tunnels or laboratories, and interpreting complex data to address real-world aerospace challenges. They frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, and technicians to deliver project goals and innovate solutions. This diverse and dynamic work environment offers opportunities for continual learning and advancement to senior research or technical leadership roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aerospace physics?

To excel in Aerospace Physics, a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree (Master's or PhD), is essential. Familiarity with computational modeling tools, simulation software (like MATLAB or ANSYS), and hands-on laboratory or experimental techniques is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective teamwork, and clear communication skills are vital soft skills for success in this interdisciplinary field. These competencies ensure the accurate analysis, design, and development of innovative aerospace technologies while facilitating effective collaboration with engineers and researchers.

Can I work in aerospace physics with a physics degree?

A physics degree provides a strong foundation for careers in aerospace physics, which involves applying principles of physics to the design and analysis of aerospace systems. Additional specialized training or advanced degrees in aerospace engineering or related fields can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with tools like computational modeling and data analysis is often beneficial.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Physics jobs?

The most popular types of Aerospace Physics jobs are:

What states have the most Aerospace Physics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerospace Physics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aerospace Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

New Graduate Engineer, GNC- '26/'27 (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

NEW GRADUATE ENGINEER, GNC - '26/'27 (STARLINK)

SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to join the Starlink guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team. Come help us write the autopilot algorithms for thousands of satellites (the world's largest constellation!) and more than two million user terminals, enabling access to high-speed broadband internet in all corners of the world.

There are several sub-teams within Starlink GNC with different focus areas. Applicants will interview for specific teams based on hiring needs and qualifications. Specific team responsibilities might include:

  • Constellation design and optimization
  • Fleet management and satellite orbit transfer automation, including all supporting software infrastructure
  • Constellation-level and network-level analysis of both existing and proposed satellite systems
  • Satellite collision avoidance
  • Satellite attitude determination and control
  • Satellite orbit control, such as low thrust trajectory optimization and station-keeping
  • Precision state estimation and control of various network payloads (RF antennas, laser inter-satellite links)

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, services, and dashboards using C++ or Python; Starlink GNC Engineers write actual production code, not just prototypes for transcription by another team
  • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews
  • Bulk data analysis to review performance data from various elements of the Starlink constellation and network
  • Write high quality technical documentation of programs, algorithms, or analysis
  • Support your relevant on-call operations rotation, commanding satellites or reviewing network data to keep our network continuously operating at peak performance

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline
  • Software development experience in either C++ or Python
  • Graduating in the class of 2026 or 2027

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Some preferred skills and experience depend on the specific team within Starlink GNC.

  • Master's degree or PHD in an engineering discipline or physics
  • Developed, debugged and deployed software that has been used in real world applications/projects
  • Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals
  • Cradle to grave development of three axis stabilized spacecraft incorporating momentum, magnetic, and propulsive control
  • Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, including low thrust trajectory optimization and stationkeeping
  • Experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance via simulation, and validation of the simulation's models
  • Experience with state estimation, particularly attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation
  • Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall
  • General familiarity with the disciplines necessary for spacecraft flight including; structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch and mission operations, and integration. Practical experience in real world development of these systems is highly desired
  • Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction
  • Passion for advancing the commercial space industry
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

What SpaceX employees say

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Benefits

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US