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Astronautical Engineering Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Astronautical Engineering information

See Athens, AL salary details

$17

$45

$67

How much do astronautical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronautical engineering in Athens, AL is $45.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.36 and $54.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is astronautical engineering?

An Astronautical Engineering job involves the design, development, and testing of spacecraft, satellites, and other space-related technology. Engineers in this field work on propulsion systems, navigation, communications, and structural design to ensure spacecraft can operate in the harsh conditions of space. They may be employed by government agencies like NASA, private aerospace companies, or defense contractors. Their work contributes to space exploration, satellite communications, and national defense.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in astronautical engineering?

To thrive as an Astronautical Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, aerospace fundamentals, and typically a bachelor's or higher degree in astronautical or aerospace engineering. Proficiency with tools like CAD software, systems simulation platforms, and familiarity with industry standards such as NASA or ESA protocols is important. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart. These capabilities are crucial for designing, testing, and managing spacecraft, ensuring mission safety, performance, and innovation in a highly technical field.

What are some common challenges faced by astronautical engineers in their daily work?

Astronautical engineers often tackle complex challenges related to designing reliable spacecraft and systems that can withstand the harsh conditions of space. They must account for strict safety requirements, severe environmental factors like radiation and vacuum, and extremely tight tolerances for weight and cost. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, project managers, and manufacturing specialists, is essential to meet project objectives. Successfully addressing these challenges requires creative problem-solving and a commitment to continuous learning, making the work both demanding and rewarding.

Are astronautical engineers in demand?

Astronautical engineers are in demand in aerospace, defense, and space exploration industries, especially as space agencies and private companies expand their programs. Employment opportunities often require strong skills in systems design, propulsion, and satellite technology, with demand influenced by government budgets and technological advancements.

Do astronautical engineers make good money?

Astronautical engineers typically earn competitive salaries, with median annual wages often exceeding the national average for engineering roles. Salaries vary based on experience, education, location, and employer, with those working for government agencies or aerospace companies generally earning higher compensation. Advanced skills in systems design, propulsion, and spacecraft technology can also influence earning potential.

Does NASA hire astronautical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires astronautical engineers to work on spacecraft design, propulsion systems, and space mission planning. These roles typically require a degree in aerospace or astronautical engineering, strong technical skills, and security clearances. NASA offers employment opportunities for qualified engineers in various research and development projects related to space exploration.

What do astronautical engineers do?

Astronautical engineers design, develop, and test spacecraft, satellites, and related systems used in space exploration and communication. They work with principles of aerodynamics, propulsion, and orbital mechanics, often using simulation software and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Their work typically involves research, analysis, and ensuring safety and reliability of space vehicles.

What cities near Athens, AL are hiring for Astronautical Engineering jobs?

Cities near Athens, AL with the most Astronautical Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Astronautical Engineering job openings in Athens, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,722 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

2026 Intern Conversion - Industrial Engineer I

Blue Origin

Huntsville, AL

$75K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Blue Origin corporate functions, providing centralized support across Blue Origin business unit teams, functions, and locations.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Successfully completed an internship with Blue Origin in 2026.
  • Enrolled or recently graduating student attending a college or university.
  • Able to start working full-time on or before September of 2027.
  • Minimum of a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, or equivalent.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team on rapid development programs.
  • Self-driven with the ability to seek out requirements with minimal direction.
  • Strong written, verbal, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Passion for Blue's Mission with a strong desire to continuously learn and improve.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Relevant internship/co-op and academic project experience that demonstrate development of both technical skills relevant to the internship as well as leadership qualities.
  • Hands-on project experience.
  • Co-curricular engagement.

Base Pay Range for:

CA applicants is $75,289.00 - $105,404.25 CO applicants is $69,015.00 - $96,621.00 WA applicants is $75,289.00 - $105,404.25 VA applicants is $75,289.00 - $105,404.25

Other site ranges may differ


Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.


Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.


Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.


Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.



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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000