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Launch Operations Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Science Applications International Corporation

SAIC is seeking a Launch Operations Support Engineer at Vandenberg Space Force Base CA to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program ...

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Launch Operations Engineer information

What is a launch operations engineer?

Launch Operations Engineers are professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating the technical aspects of spacecraft or rocket launches. Their work involves preparing, testing, and integrating launch vehicles and payloads, as well as managing countdown procedures and troubleshooting issues that may arise before or during a launch. They collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure safety, reliability, and mission success. These engineers often work at launch sites and must be adept at problem-solving in high-pressure environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a launch operations engineer?

To thrive as a Launch Operations Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, systems integration, and problem-solving, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with launch vehicle systems, telemetry, control software, and certifications like EIT or PE are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are essential to ensure safe, reliable, and successful spacecraft launches in a high-stakes environment.

What are common challenges faced by launch operations engineers during a rocket launch campaign?

Launch Operations Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating real-time communication across multidisciplinary teams, managing tight launch windows, and troubleshooting unexpected technical issues under time pressure. They must also ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory requirements while working in high-stress environments. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective collaboration with engineers, technicians, and mission control staff.

What is the difference between Launch Operations Engineer vs Launch Systems Engineer?

AspectLaunch Operations EngineerLaunch Systems Engineer
Primary FocusOverseeing launch procedures, ground operations, and launch site activitiesDesigning, integrating, and testing launch vehicle systems
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, technical background, certifications in launch operationsBachelor's or higher in aerospace or systems engineering, certifications in systems integration
Work EnvironmentLaunch sites, ground control facilitiesDesign labs, testing facilities, integration centers
Industry UsageSpace agencies, commercial launch providersManufacturers, aerospace companies, system integrators

The Launch Operations Engineer primarily manages ground and launch site activities, ensuring successful launches. In contrast, the Launch Systems Engineer focuses on designing and testing the vehicle systems. Both roles require engineering credentials and are integral to the launch process, but they differ in daily responsibilities and work environments.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Launch Operations Engineer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Launch Operations Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Launch Operations Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Launch Operations Engineer I - Launch Operations

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

Relativity Space
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Relativity Spaceexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Relativity Space rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

About the Team:

The Launch team operates at the intersection of every major aspect of Terran R, from stages and payloads to ground systems, launch, landing, and refurbishment. The Cape is the only place where you see it all come together, offering a level of exposure and responsibility unmatched elsewhere in the program. This is where first flights happen, where history is built on top of history, and where the scale of what's underway is unlike anything in modern aerospace. The mission stays the same, but the work evolves with every milestone: from first launch to reuse, high-cadence operations, and beyond. If you're looking to define what's next in space launch and write a new playbook, not just repeat what's already been done, this is where it happens.

About the Role:

As a Launch Operations Engineer I, you will have a front-row seat in the launch control room during one of the most demanding and exhilarating moments in engineering: a live rocket launch. You will not just observe the countdown; you will own critical systems, make real-time decisions, and help guide a vehicle from initial power-up through liftoff. In this role, you will bring structure and disciplined execution to complex propulsion development and launch operations, shaping how missions are prepared, tested, and flown. From hands-on hardware integration in the field to commanding systems through integrated control software and analyzing live telemetry under pressure, you will operate at the intersection of precision, speed, and accountability. 

  • Conduct complex propulsion tests and launch operations to evaluate rocket engine and stage performance.
  • Create and optimize automated test sequences, procedures, and data review processes to ensure safe, efficient, and repeatable execution.
  • Command and monitor the launch pad and flight hardware through GUIs and integrated control, automation, and telemetry systems.
  • Perform hardware setup, system configuration, and cross-disciplinary troubleshooting.
  • Analyze test data and partner with design engineering to improve rocket system performance based on real-world results.

About You:

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Software Engineering, or Computer Science; aerospace experience not required. We value diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
  • Strong engineering fundamentals across thermal, structural, electrical, and fluid systems.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively in team environments and perform under high-pressure, schedule-driven conditions.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as required by operations.

Nice to haves but not required:

  • Working knowledge of rocket subsystems, including structures, mechanisms, high-pressure fluid systems, and avionics.
  • Hands-on experience supporting propulsion test and launch operations.
  • Intermediate proficiency in object-oriented programming. 
  • Proven ability to quickly learn new skills, programming languages, and tools.
  • Experience developing user interfaces and operator-in-the-loop automation tools for manufacturing and test.

Successful candidates must clear a background check administered by the US government to obtain clearance for on-site work at our government partner location in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

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