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Astronautical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turion Space

Principal Astronomical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $270K/yr

At Turion Space, our astronautical engineering work is what makes autonomous operations in orbit possible. This team owns the flight dynamics, navigation, guidance, and mission analysis that let our ...

Turion Space

Principal Astronomical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $270K/yr

At Turion Space, our astronautical engineering work is what makes autonomous operations in orbit possible. This team owns the flight dynamics, navigation, guidance, and mission analysis that let our ...

Alutiiq

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$195K - $250K/yr

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

QinetiQ U.S.

SETA Mission Support Member

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Experience supporting IC flight operations and ground ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Mission Support Member

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Experience supporting IC flight operations and ground ...

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Astronautical Engineer information

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How much do astronautical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronautical engineer in the United States is $47.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.70 and $56.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an astronautical engineer?

Astronautical Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the production of spacecraft, satellites, and related systems that operate outside Earth's atmosphere. Their work involves applying principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to solve complex challenges in space exploration and technology. Astronautical Engineers collaborate with scientists and other engineers to create innovative solutions for space missions, satellite communications, and navigation systems. They may work for government agencies like NASA, private aerospace companies, or defense contractors. Their expertise is crucial for advancing space travel, satellite deployment, and scientific research beyond our planet.

What are some of the unique challenges astronautical engineers face when working on spacecraft projects?

Astronautical Engineers often encounter challenges related to the harsh conditions of space, such as extreme temperatures, radiation, and microgravity, which require innovative design solutions. They must also coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams—including systems engineers, scientists, and mission operators—to ensure spacecraft reliability and mission success. Additionally, adhering to strict safety standards and managing tight project timelines are common aspects of the role, making effective communication and problem-solving skills crucial in daily work.

Does NASA hire astronautical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires astronautical engineers to work on spacecraft design, propulsion systems, and mission planning. These engineers typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or astronautical engineering and may require security clearances and experience with CAD tools and testing environments.

What is the difference between Astronautical Engineer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAstronautical EngineerAerospace Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace or astronautical engineeringBachelor's or higher in aerospace or related engineering
Work EnvironmentSpacecraft, satellites, space missionsAircraft, spacecraft, atmospheric and space systems
Industry UsageSpace agencies, satellite companies, space industryAircraft manufacturers, defense, space agencies

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Astronautical Engineers focus on space vehicles and missions, whereas Aerospace Engineers work on aircraft and atmospheric systems. The main difference lies in their specific applications within the aerospace industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an astronautical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astronautical Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or astronautical engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or Simulink, and familiarity with industry standards such as NASA or ESA specifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for designing reliable spacecraft, ensuring mission safety, and advancing space exploration technologies.
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Astronautical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronautical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,145 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Principal Astronomical Engineer

Turion Space

Irvine, CA • On-site

$150K - $270K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

At Turion Space, our astronautical engineering work is what makes autonomous operations in orbit possible. This team owns the flight dynamics, navigation, guidance, and mission analysis that let our spacecraft maneuver, rendezvous, and operate safely in a contested and increasingly crowded domain. As a Principal Astronautical Engineer, you'll lead the design, development, and implementation of astronautical engineering solutions across mission operations, flight dynamics, flight software, and mission/systems engineering.
This is a deeply technical leadership role at the core of how Turion flies. You'll set the standard for rigor across the astronautics stack, from the algorithms that determine and control spacecraft state to the software and test infrastructure that proves it works before it ever reaches orbit. Your work will directly shape the reliability of every mission we fly and the capabilities we can offer our customers. This position requires travel to our Irvine, California headquarters and other locations as needed.
Job Responsibilities
  • Lead the design, development, and implementation of astronautical engineering solutions.
  • Build, develop, and maintain software and systems for space applications.
  • Ensure the quality and rigor of engineering processes and deliverables.
  • Drive for 100% test coverage against canonical sources of truth.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to achieve mission objectives.
  • Contribute to documentation, code reviews, and process improvements.

Basic Qualifications
  • M.S. in Astronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering with an astronautics emphasis, or a related technical field
  • 8 to 20 years of professional experience in astronautical engineering
  • Demonstrated ability to develop astronautics applications supporting mission operations, flight dynamics, flight software, and mission/systems engineering
  • Experience designing and implementing software for space applications, including but not limited to:
    • Space environment modeling and simulation
    • Spacecraft navigation and guidance algorithms
    • Spacecraft attitude control systems
    • Space mission planning and analysis tools
  • Expert-level understanding of the technical and operational aspects of astronautical engineering, including but not limited to:
    • Propagation
    • Time scale and reference frame transformations
    • Coordinate systems and conversions
    • Maneuver planning
    • Safety of flight analysis and operations
    • Orbit determination and state estimation
    • Optimal control
  • Ability to implement and test the numeric methods required to support the above engineering areas, including but not limited to:
    • Numerical integration
    • Root finding
    • Linear programming
    • Non-linear programming
  • Ability to design, develop, and test the aforementioned engineering areas
  • Strong proficiency in C, C++, and Python, and implementation of astronautics functions/applications in these languages
  • Proficiency in build systems (CMake), version control (Git), and software development best practices
  • Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and software testing methodologies
  • Must travel to Irvine, CA or other locations as needed to support customer engagements and team collaboration
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen (dual citizenship not accepted)
  • Must be able to obtain a Top Secret security clearance

Preferred Qualifications
  • Working experience with industry-standard tools relevant to the role, such as:
    • MATLAB/Simulink
    • STK/Astrogator
    • GMAT
    • Orekit
  • Experience developing enterprise-grade astronautics libraries and applications.
  • Operational experience using astronautics applications to support space missions.

Employees may be asked to support alternate shifts, extended shifts, and/or travel during peak work periods.
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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