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Launch Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

As a design engineer for ground fluid systems for our dedicated launch complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, you will be responsible for developing and commissioning a new launch pad from ...

As a design engineer for ground fluid systems for our dedicated launch complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, you will be responsible for developing and commissioning a new launch pad from ...

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Launch Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$25K

$65K

$97.5K

How much do launch engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for launch engineer in Florida is $65,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $85,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Launch Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, experience with launch vehicle systems, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry-standard safety and quality certifications is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in high-pressure, collaborative environments. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safety, reliability, and success of complex launch operations.

What Is a Launch Engineer?

A launch engineer coordinates different business departments and helps them successfully launch new products or services on time and within budget. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in business or similar fields and years of experience with launch processes. In the aerospace industry, a launch engineer designs and implements rocket launch systems. They plan development tests, review flight and test data, and produce launch procedures and criteria. Whichever industry you work in as a launch engineer, you need top-notch communication and organizational skills. Planning and status reporting are key functions of your daily duties. You take on a blend of management and quality assurance roles. Because of your position, you’re the critical point that ensures the launch, whether for a product or a rocket ship, is on budget and on time.

What are Launch Engineers?

Launch Engineers are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the technical aspects of launching rockets, spacecraft, or other vehicles into space. They coordinate with various engineering teams to ensure all systems are properly integrated and functioning before, during, and after launch. Their duties include developing launch procedures, troubleshooting issues, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and monitoring launch operations in real-time. Launch Engineers play a critical role in ensuring the success and safety of space missions.

What is the difference between Launch Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectLaunch EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, specialized training in launch systemsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering, professional licensure optional
Work EnvironmentSpacecraft/rocket launch sites, aerospace facilitiesManufacturing plants, design offices, research labs
Industry UsageSpace agencies, aerospace companies, defense contractorsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Launch Engineers focus on preparing and executing spacecraft and rocket launches, requiring specialized knowledge of launch systems and safety protocols. Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems across various industries, including aerospace, but with broader application. While both roles require engineering degrees, Launch Engineers typically have more specific training related to launch operations, making them distinct yet related roles within the aerospace sector.

What are some common challenges a Launch Engineer faces during the final countdown and launch operations?

Launch Engineers often encounter high-pressure situations during the final countdown, where quick decision-making and effective communication are critical. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—such as propulsion, avionics, and ground support—is essential to address last-minute technical issues and ensure all systems are 'go' for launch. Managing unexpected anomalies while maintaining strict safety protocols can be challenging, but these experiences also develop strong problem-solving skills and resilience. Working in this role provides exposure to real-time operations and opportunities for career advancement into leadership positions or specialized technical roles.
What cities in Florida are hiring for Launch Engineer jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Launch Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Launch Engineer jobs in FL? For Launch Engineer jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Launch Engineer job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,042 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Launch Engineer - Fluids

Launch Engineer - Fluids

Stoke Space

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

$129K - $193K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

At Stoke, we believe a thriving space economy will enable a vibrant, sustainable, and equitable future here on Earth. That is why we're building Nova, our fully and rapidly reusable launch vehicle. Designed for daily flight, Nova tackles the core challenges of space transportation by reducing cost, increasing availability, and improving reliability. By radically lowering launch costs and increasing flight cadence, we're helping create a truly scalable space industry.
Our team is mission-driven, collaborative, and empowered to take ownership of their work. If you want to work alongside some of the most dedicated and talented people on Earth, we'd love to have you join us.
Description
Reusable systems with frequent launch cadence are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space. A highly operable, reliable, and robust ground system is an integral part of a fully reusable launch system. As a design engineer for ground fluid systems for our dedicated launch complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, you will be responsible for developing and commissioning a new launch pad from scratch. You will be responsible for all phases of the product lifecycle including schematic definition, component selection, detailed mechanical design, component procurement, integration, commissioning, and operations. As part of a small, well-supported team, you will have access to the resources you need to get the job done right while simultaneously boosting your skills at a pace that can't be matched in most other roles. You must be ready to stay focused, move fast, self-direct, and learn on the fly.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain interface requirements and performance requirements for the ground fluid systems in coordination with the launch vehicle development team
  • Develop fluid system schematics and architectural design to implement functional requirements
  • Perform analysis to size fluid system components for cryogenic propellant systems, high pressure pneumatics, and water systems
  • Specify and select components from vendors, then manage the procurement process
  • Design components and routed systems, from initial layout through detailed component design, and create CAD models and drawings using Siemens NX
  • Support technicians with mechanical installation and integration of your designs, both with engineering oversight and hands-on assembly as needed
  • Develop the test plan for commissioning and activation of the ground fluid systems and execute the testing in coordination with the launch site development and operations team
  • Conduct test and launch operations on console in an engineering support and/or operational role
  • Continuously maintain and improve the design configuration and physical configuration of the system throughout ongoing operations and maintenance

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in a related role working on high pressure systems in an aerospace or similar high-performance application (oil & gas, heavy equipment, energy systems, etc.)
  • Practical and theoretical knowledge of mechanical design, thermodynamics, and fluids engineering principles
  • Knowledge of ASME B31.3 Process Piping
  • Proficient with 3D CAD software (Siemens NX preferred)
  • Proficient with developing and maintaining a Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID)
  • Knowledge of the working principles of common fluid components such as valves, regulators, and instrumentation
  • Ability to prioritize and execute
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to lead
  • Ability to follow
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or similar field
  • Willing to relocate to Cape Canaveral, FL

Preferred Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in a related role engineering, building, and operating cryogenic fluids systems in aerospace or similar high-performance application (oil & gas, heavy equipment, energy systems, etc.)
  • Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 range requirements as well as DoD explosive siting for launch vehicle programs
  • Experience working with 45th SW, 30th SW, and/or NASA and other government agencies
  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or similar field
  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) license

Benefits
  • Equity - We know that our employees are the reason we succeed. To give everyone a stake in our future, we are pleased to offer equity in the form of stock options to all regular, full-time employees.
  • Comprehensive benefits program including subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) plan with employer match
  • 4 weeks' Paid Time Off
  • Holidays - 10 days (including an end-of-year closure)
  • Paid Family/Parental Leave
  • On-site gym or monthly wellness stipend (depending on location)
  • Dog friendly offices!

Compensation
Target Levels:
  • Level 3 Range: $129,150 - $193,620
  • Level 4 Range: $151,305 - $252,105

Our job posts are intentionally written to attract a wide variety of experience levels, and we make decisions about the right fit on a per-candidate basis.
Your actual level and base salary will be decided based on your specific experience and skill level.
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including with respect to disability and veteran status. It is committed to compliance with all equal opportunity laws, including the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and Title VII. It does not discriminate on the basis of nationality, race, citizenship, immigration status, or any other protected class when it comes to employment practices, including hiring.
Employment at the Company is contingent upon satisfactory completion of reference and backgroundchecks, and on your ability to prove your identity and authorization to work in the U.S. for the Company. Employees must comply with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services employment verification requirements, and, therefore, they must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9 at the start of employment and re-verify authorization to work periodically.
Separate from this I-9 process, this position entails access to certain technology and technical data that is restricted under U.S. export control laws and regulations. Employment or continued employment may be conditioned on your legal authorization to work with or have access to export control materials as necessary to perform your job.
Candidate Rights & Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or participate in the interview process, please contact careers@stokespace.com. Requests will be handled in accordance with applicable laws. Please do not include medical or other confidential information in your initial request.
For more information about your rights, please refer to the "Know Your Rights" notice here.
E-Verify
Stoke Space uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.