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Jpl Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... JPL and NASA. The Deep Space Network is NASA's international array of giant radio antennas that ... Closely work with the Mechanical (HVAC), Electrical, Fiber Optic and Fire Protection project design ...

... JPL and NASA. The Deep Space Network is NASA's international array of giant radio antennas that ... Closely work with the Mechanical (HVAC), Electrical, Fiber Optic and Fire Protection project design ...

Facilities Controls Design Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

... JPL and NASA. The Deep Space Network is NASA's international array of giant radio antennas that ... Closely work with the Mechanical (HVAC), Electrical, Fiber Optic and Fire Protection project design ...

Forward Deployed Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $300K/yr

Master's degree or higher in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a ... NASA JPL, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, Amazon, Tesla Autopilot, Cruise Self-Driving, Zoox, Toyota ...

Master's degree or higher in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a ... NASA JPL, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, Amazon, Tesla Autopilot, Cruise Self-Driving, Zoox, Toyota ...

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JPL Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do jpl mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for jpl mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does JPL hire mechanical engineers?

Yes, JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory) hires mechanical engineers to work on space exploration projects, spacecraft design, and related research. Candidates typically need a relevant engineering degree, experience with CAD tools, and knowledge of aerospace systems. Job opportunities are posted on NASA's careers website and require security clearances for certain positions.

What is a JPL Mechanical Engineer?

A JPL Mechanical Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and oversees the manufacture of mechanical systems and components for spacecraft, instruments, and robotics at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Their work often involves creating innovative solutions for challenging environments, such as space, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure mission success. Mechanical engineers at JPL play a crucial role in building and maintaining the hardware that enables groundbreaking space exploration missions.

How much does a Mechanical Engineer at JPL make?

A Mechanical Engineer at JPL typically earns an average salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific role responsibilities. Salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, with opportunities for advancement based on performance and tenure.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership or managerial responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Mechanical Engineers at JPL, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Mechanical Engineers at JPL often work on complex, multidisciplinary projects that require innovative solutions and precise attention to detail. A common challenge is balancing strict mission requirements with the realities of building hardware that must survive harsh environments, such as those found on Mars or in deep space. Applicants can prepare by gaining experience with systems engineering, collaborating across specialties, and developing a strong foundation in thermal, structural, and materials engineering. Familiarity with rapid prototyping, testing standards, and iterative design processes will also be advantageous.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a JPL Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a JPL Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving, and often a bachelor's or higher degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or CATIA), FEA analysis tools, and experience with NASA or aerospace-specific standards are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and creativity are essential to excel in multidisciplinary project environments. These skills and qualities are vital for designing reliable, innovative systems that meet the rigorous demands of space exploration.

How hard is it to get a job at JPL?

Securing a mechanical engineering position at JPL is competitive due to high standards for education, experience, and technical skills, including proficiency in CAD software and knowledge of aerospace systems. Candidates typically need a strong background in engineering principles, relevant internships or research experience, and often a master's degree or higher. The hiring process involves multiple interviews and assessments to evaluate technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
More about JPL Mechanical Engineer jobs
What states have the most Jpl Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Jpl Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
Facilities Controls Design Engineer

Facilities Controls Design Engineer

Peraton

Monrovia, CA • On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Peraton rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 205 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities
Peraton is seeking a Controls Design Engineer to join our team in Monrovia, California to support our Deep Space Network (DSN) program with JPL and NASA.
The Deep Space Network is NASA's international array of giant radio antennas that supports interplanetary spacecraft missions, plus a few that orbit Earth. The DSN also provides radar and radio astronomy observations that improve our understanding of the solar system and the larger universe. The antennas of the Deep Space Network are the indispensable link to explorers venturing beyond the moon. They provide the crucial connection for commanding our spacecraft and receiving their never before seen images and scientific information on Earth, propelling our understanding of the universe, our solar system and ultimately, our place within it.
Develop innovative technical solutions to complex problems and make recommendations for improvement to sustain and support the development of the various assemblies in the Facilities and Antenna Subsystems serving NASA's Deep Space Communications Complexes (DSCCs) in Australia, Spain and California.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee all aspects of design, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, repair and installation of controls equipment for the DSN facilities and antennas
  • Perform a wide variety of difficult and highly complex engineering, design, analysis, or other technical tasks utilizing current technology and available standards, templates and cataloged products
  • Provide engineering support to facilities systems; driving upgrade projects from concept to completion, as required for continuous improvement of the facilities systems to ensure that support and services of the department meet the highest quality of standards, safety and performance
  • Closely work with the Mechanical (HVAC), Electrical, Fiber Optic and Fire Protection project design team members
  • Ensure all relevant safety objectives and legal requirements are observed for all work completed.
  • Interpret client requirements, identify and address design parameters and engineering problems and ensure solutions are implemented accurately and within budget.
  • Coordinate design elements with other design disciplines
  • Create and finalize designs to meet project requirements.
  • Provide technical support to customers.
  • Commission customized products and systems onsite and at customer facilities ensure working as designed
  • Document, report and generate user manuals, installation procedures, test procedures, etc.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • 5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD
  • Are able to obtain a trusted background check and pass a National Criminal Information Check (NCIC). In order to obtain a clearance, you need to be a US Citizen and show proof of citizenship.
  • Demonstrated experience with at least one general-purpose programming language (e.g. Assembly, C, C++, Python, etc.)
  • Demonstrated experience with linear electrical/electronic components (resistors, capacitors, relays), electro-mechanical components (actuators, AC/DC motors, VFD or VSD, motor controllers), serial and parallel communication protocols (I2C, Modbus, CAN bus, BACnet)
  • Basic understanding with Building Management System (BMS) such as ALC and Carrier system such as Johnson Metasys
  • Basic understanding of various sensor equipment (pressure, flow, voltage, current), analog and discrete inputs/outputs (I/O), Ladder logic/PLC programming, and computer networking.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Masters Degree.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification or Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Project Manager Professional (PMP) Certification
  • Basic understanding of AC power, especially medium voltage, UPS's, protection devices
  • Basic understanding of mechanical engineering principles (torque, moment of inertia, etc.)
  • Basic understanding of HVAC components (fans, compressors, chillers, dampers, actuators)
  • Basic understanding of non-linear electrical/electronic components (transistors, diodes, AC-DC/DC-AC converters/inverters)
  • Basic understanding of project/task management
  • Able to multi-task, adapt to change quickly, are an analytical thinker and are detail oriented.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Able to work independently with minimal direction
  • Seeks out answers and the people who can provide them
  • Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus

Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$86,000 - $138,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

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At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017