ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Launch Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Long Wall

Head of Launch Systems

Long Beach, CA

Directly manage and develop a team of 3-5 engineers across mechanical, electrical, and systems ... Represent the launch system in internal design reviews, customer briefings, and supplier meetings.

Long Wall

Head of Launch Systems

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Directly manage and develop a team of 3-5 engineers across mechanical, electrical, and systems ... Represent the launch system in internal design reviews, customer briefings, and supplier meetings.

Seneca

Launch Program Manager

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$120K - $220K/yr

Seneca is looking for a Launch Program Manager to own the end-to-end deployment of our aircraft systems with customers. When we say, "We're launching in Aspen," you turn that decision into an ...

K2 Space

Senior Launch Mission Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

As a launch mission manager, you will be hands-on supporting payload, vehicle, and launch integration certification, verification, and execution actions. You'll own certification across multiple ...

K2 Space

Senior Launch Mission Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

As a launch mission manager, you will be hands-on supporting payload, vehicle, and launch integration certification, verification, and execution actions. You'll own certification across multiple ...

K2 Space

Senior Launch Mission Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

As a launch mission manager, you will be hands-on supporting payload, vehicle, and launch integration certification, verification, and execution actions. You'll own certification across multiple ...

Mill

Commercial Launch & Deployment Manager

San Bruno, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Commercial Launch & Deployment Manager , you will serve as the strategic architect and tactical execution lead for Mill's commercial launch and expansion. You will own the hardware launch ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsLaunch JobsLaunch Manager JobsLaunch Manager Jobs in California

Launch Manager information

See California salary details

$15

$36

$60

How much do launch manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for launch manager in California is $36.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $54.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a launch manager?

A Launch Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the introduction of new products, services, or projects within an organization. They manage the planning, execution, and monitoring of launch activities to ensure everything runs smoothly and meets deadlines. Their work often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, managing timelines, and mitigating risks to ensure a successful launch. Launch Managers play a crucial role in aligning stakeholders, handling logistics, and tracking performance metrics throughout the launch process.

What is a launch manager?

A launch manager is responsible for successfully introducing new products and services into the marketplace. As a launch manager, your job duties include collaborating with sales and marketing teams, developing a plan for going to market with a new product or service, implementing that plan, and analyzing results to improve future launches. The qualifications for a career as a launch manager include excellent organization and communication skills, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject or a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and several years of experience in the marketing or advertising industry.

What are some common challenges a launch manager faces when coordinating cross-functional teams during a product launch?

A Launch Manager often encounters challenges such as aligning different departments—like marketing, sales, product development, and customer support—around tight timelines and shifting priorities. Balancing stakeholder expectations, resolving communication gaps, and managing last-minute changes are frequent hurdles. Successful Launch Managers proactively facilitate regular updates, clarify roles, and anticipate potential roadblocks to keep all teams moving toward a unified launch goal. This collaborative environment requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills to ensure a smooth, on-time launch.

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

To excel as a Launch Manager, you need expertise in project management, cross-functional coordination, and a strong understanding of product development, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in launching products or services. Familiarity with project management tools like Asana or Jira, as well as certifications such as PMP or Agile, are commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills set top candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure that complex launches are executed smoothly, on time, and meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Launch Manager vs Product Launch Coordinator?

AspectLaunch ManagerProduct Launch Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire product launch process, manages teams, develops strategiesSupports launch activities, coordinates tasks, assists with logistics
Required SkillsProject management, leadership, strategic planningCommunication, organization, coordination skills
CertificationsProject Management Professional (PMP), relevant industry certificationsNone typically required, but certifications like CAPM can help
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, cross-departmental collaborationSupportive, team-oriented, often in office or remote

The Launch Manager typically holds a more strategic and leadership-focused role, overseeing the entire product launch process, while the Product Launch Coordinator provides essential support and coordination. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the Launch Manager often has more experience and responsibilities in planning and execution.

More about Launch Manager jobs

What are popular job titles related to Launch Manager jobs in California?

For Launch Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Launch Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Launch Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Launch Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Launch Manager job openings:

Launch Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Launch Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,103 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Head of Launch Systems

Long Wall

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Long Wall Company was created in 2024 to accelerate missile defense technology for the U.S. and our allies. Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible missile defense systems and offers rapid, low-cost flight testing. We believe that the future of global security and stability require defensive technology that is lower cost, higher performing, better tested, and more broadly distributed than is possible today. Join us.
 
What we look for
Mission-Driven Problem Solvers. The aerospace frontier demands ingenuity. We want Team members who approach challenges with curiosity, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and stay focused on delivering the best solution for the mission.
 
Total Ownership. We seek staff and engineers who take full responsibility for contributing to and delivering flight-ready work while recognizing that no one succeeds alone. The best engineers, corporate professionals, and technicians make their teammates better. Knowing that complementary skills create force multiplication and drive mission success.

Head of Launch Systems

Description

We are seeking an experienced and driven Head of Launch System to lead the design, development, integration, and qualification of interceptor launchers and ground support equipment. These launchers will enable deployment of a missile defense interceptors in low cost, discreet form factors. This leader will own the full system lifecycle, from design through fielding across all subsystem domains including electrical, power, pneumatic, hydraulic, structural systems, and USG safety requirements. This role will carry forward Long Wall's proven track record of developing mobile launch systems and leverage the heritage of operating the Ironwood ground system for liquid launch vehicles. This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for both technical excellence and people management. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

System Design & Development 

  • Lead end-to-end design and development of a 40-ft containerized launch system for a new interceptor, meeting all performance, safety, and reliability requirements. 
  • Architect, detailed design and validation of all major subsystems, including: 
    • Electrical systems - power distribution, control wiring, and system interfaces 
    • Power systems - primary and backup power, energy storage, and conversion 
    • Pneumatic systems - high-pressure gas management, purge, and actuation circuits 
    • Hydraulic systems - actuator control, pressure regulation, and fluid management 
    • Structural systems - Container mechanical (welded structures and mechanisms) design and structural, thermal, vibration , and acoustic analysis 
  • Define system-level requirements and flow down to subsystem and component levels. 
  • Oversee trades studies, design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR), and technical baseline management. 

Program & Team Leadership 

  • Directly manage and develop a team of 3-5 engineers across mechanical, electrical, and systems disciplines. 
  • Assign work, set priorities, conduct performance reviews, and mentor team members toward career growth. 
  • Interface with internal stakeholders to coordinate schedules and deliverables. 
  • Work closely with external customers to develop key system interfaces and requirements 
  • Represent the launch system in internal design reviews, customer briefings, and supplier meetings. 
  • Own technical risk identification and mitigation planning for all launch system subsystems. 

Development, Integration, Test & Field Operations 

  • Lead detailed system design, operating as 'player/coach' with work split biased towards lead technical contributor 
  • Lead system integration and qualification testing, including functional, environmental, and acceptance testing. 
  • Develop and review test plans, procedures, and anomaly reports. 
  • Support field deployment and operational readiness activities at test and operational sites. 
  • Coordinate with safety engineering to ensure compliance with all applicable range and system safety requirements. 
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 8+ yrs of progressive engineering experience in ground support, launch ground systems, or industrial/energy ground infrastructure.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience with two or more of the following system domains: 
  • Electrical systems (power distribution, wiring harnesses, control electronics) 
  • Power systems (prime power, UPS, switching, protection) 
  • Pneumatic systems (high-pressure gas handling, regulators, valves) 
  • Hydraulic systems (actuators, manifolds, fluid circuits) 
  • Structural/mechanical systems (fabricated ground structures, mechanisms, tight tolerance structures) 
  • Experience leading or co-leading a multi-discipline engineering team on a hardware development program. 
  • Background in aerospace ground systems (launch vehicles, missiles, satellites) or a similar discipline (oil and gas, automotive, large field equipment)  
  • Familiarity with requirements management, design review processes, and systems engineering fundamentals. 
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance (U.S. citizenship required). 
  • This is an on-site role based in Long Beach, California. 
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree in engineering or a related field. 
  • Experience with canister-based or VLS (Vertical Launch System) launch system design and integration. 
  • Background with ISO container-based mobile systems or rapidly deployable weapon/sensor platforms. 
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-810, and MIL-HDBK-17 or equivalent standards. 
  • Experience with structural fabrication and inspection to AWS D1.1, AWS 17.1, or equivalent 
  • Active Secret or Top Secret/SCI security clearance. 
  • Hands-on experience with the integration and testing of propulsion or energetics ground systems. 
  • Knowledge of safety and reliability methodologies, including FMEA, FTA, and PHA. 
  • Program management exposure (Earned Value, IMS, risk registers). 
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work is performed in a combination of office, laboratory, and field environments. 
  • May require work near launch structures, high-pressure systems, and energetic materials; PPE required. 
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs; occasionally work in confined spaces or at elevated heights. 
  • Domestic and international travel up to 25%, including extended periods at remote test sites. 
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time
  • Ability to use a computer to complete assignments
  • Ability to communicate with individuals and groups in person, by phone, and telepresence
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee will typically work in an office environment
$145,000 - $230,000 a year
Compensation and Benefits:

Above is the full compensation range for this role, broken down by:

  • M3 (Manager, Launch Systems) - $145,000 to $185,000
  • M4 (Head of, Launch Systems) - $175,000 to $230,000

This is the lowest to highest compensation range we reasonably and in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee's pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

In addition to base pay and equity, we offer:

  • Heavily employer-subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
  • Long Wall paid life insurance and LTD coverage
  • 4% 401k match
  • Student loan repayment assistance program
  • Paid parental leave
  • Family planning assistance program
  • Long Wall paid financial wellness program
  • Paid time off for non-exempt employees and flexible vacation policy for exempt employees
ITAR Requirement
This position requires access to information protected under US export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and/or the Export Administration Regulations.  As such, US person status (including US citizens, U.S. permanent residents, individuals granted U.S. asylum status, or individuals admitted in U.S. refugee status) is a required qualification for this position.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, genetics, or citizenship status (when otherwise legally authorized to work and access export-controlled data) and will not be discriminated against on the basis of such characteristics or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. We encourage applicants of all ages.
apply for this job

Apply