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Astronautical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QinetiQ US

SETA Former COTR

Chantilly, VA

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Certification in program management, contracts ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Former COTR

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Certification in program management, contracts ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Former COTR

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Certification in program management, contracts ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Former COTR

Chantilly, VA

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Certification in program management, contracts ...

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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.

Propulsion Engineer (Merlin Hardware Development)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
PROPULSION ENGINEER (MERLIN HARDWARE DEVELOPMENT)
As a Merlin Propulsion Engineer, you will own engine hardware and software from first build through acceptance test, flight, and re-flight. You will drive design, process, and operational changes that improve Merlin reliability, producibility, and performance-and help Falcon scale production and flight rate without sacrificing the flight heritage that made it the world's most reliable launch vehicle. On any given week you might be hands-on with the engine, in a design or test review, briefing a customer, or closing an anomaly investigation before the next launch.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Serve as the Responsible Engineer for a Merlin engine component or system, where you will be the primary technical point of contact for your hardware through the complete life cycle
  • Lead Merlin development and qualification test campaigns for hardware improvements or root cause investigations
  • Design, analyze, produce, and operate Merlin propulsion hardware and systems across development and flight operations
  • Partner with engineers and technicians across production, test, launch, avionics, GNC (guidance, navigation & control), software, mission management, and flight reliability to deliver flight-ready engines
  • Resolve day-to-day production, test, and launch issues by getting hands-on with the hardware
  • Brief commercial and government customers on hardware changes and issues as a technical authority for mission success
  • Make sound, risk-informed decisions under time pressure, including during test and launch campaigns
  • Implement and maintain hardware and software verification and validation using automation and process controls that scale with flight rate
  • Develop and improve engine maintenance procedures with the launch site and test teams to improve hardware readiness and reduce turnaround time
  • Lead anomaly investigations related to your hardware, drive rapid resolution, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence
  • Build tools, especially while leveraging AI, to automate analysis, reduce repetitive work, and speed up engineering decisions
  • Run multiple concurrent projects, prioritizing against program milestones and business needs while maintaining excellent attention to detail

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or physics
  • 1+ years of academic or professional hands-on experience performing fabrication, assembly, and/or testing
  • 1+ years of academic or professional experience using CAD to design parts/assemblies

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering or aeronautical/astronautical engineering
  • 1+ years of academic or professional experience related to combustion devices or rocket engine development
  • Strong foundation in fluid mechanics (compressible and incompressible), thermodynamics, combustion, structures/fracture mechanics, and materials-and the judgment to apply them to real hardware decisions.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes such as CNC mill/lathe, welding, castings, additive, etc. and proficient with the fundamentals of Design for Manufacturing/Assembly (DFMA)
  • Experience across the full engineering lifecycle-from design trade and CAD through manufacturing, test, qualification, production, and flight/operations.
  • Experience performing risk assessments or supporting timely closure of root-cause investigations
  • Analytical/scientific programming experience (Python, Matlab, etc.)
  • Experience using Siemens NX (Unigraphics) and ANSYS preferred, Fluent or other comparable CFD package also desirable
  • Comfortable briefing senior leadership and external customers on technical risk and hardware status
  • Ability to work well in a collaborative team environment including daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with both internal and external customers

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to travel in support of testing, launching, and maintenance of engine hardware (up to 10%)
  • Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends when production, test, or launch timelines require it

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000.00 - $117,500.00
Level 2: $115,000.00 - $140,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX 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.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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About SpaceX

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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

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