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Launch Operations Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Long Wall

Test & Operations Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$91K - $140K/yr

Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible ... TEST AND OPERATIONS ENGINEER Test and Operations Engineers are the end users and final guardians of ...

Long Wall

Test & Operations Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$91K - $140K/yr

Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible ... TEST AND OPERATIONS ENGINEER Test and Operations Engineers are the end users and final guardians of ...

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$135K

How much do launch operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for launch operations engineer in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Launch Operations Engineers?

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

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 cities are hiring for Launch Operations Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Launch Operations Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Launch Operations Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.
Launch Engineer - Vehicle Controller

Launch Engineer - Vehicle Controller

Stoke Space

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

$123K - $184K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Launch Engineer - Vehicle Controller with a focus on launch automation, launch vehicle systems, and software for our Nova launch vehicle. In this critical role, you will develop launch day concept of operations, automation systems, coordinate with engineering teams, and ensure a seamless transition from ground operations through launch, flight, and handoff to orbital or recovery operations. This role will be well served by someone who is an expert in software engineering AND aerospace propulsion systems including tanks and structures.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, implement, and refine automation and software to support test and mission operations and streamline test and launch day processes.
  • Work closely with Vehicle RE's to ensure that software is enabling test and launch operations for the integrated vehicle.
  • Operate and build systems that monitor telemetry from the Nova launch vehicle and assess real-time launch commit criteria.
  • Work with Kent, Moses Lake and Launch Site teams to streamline integrated vehicle testing as a continuation into Launch Site processing and Launch Operations.
  • Aggregate and synthesize engineering inputs from subject matter experts to enable and inform critical decision-making.
  • Collaborate closely with Mission Operations Engineering, advising on launch sequence adjustments and anomaly resolution when needed.
  • Drive the continuous improvement of launch day CONOPS to increase operational efficiency and mission success.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in mission operations, launch systems, or a related aerospace field.
  • Experience in vehicle automation, telemetry analysis, and operational command and control.
  • Experience operating and troubleshooting high pressure fluid systems or cryogenic systems
  • Experience operating and troubleshooting mechanical/electrical or avionics systems
  • Strong problem-solving skills, especially in high-stakes, real-time environments.
  • Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with multidisciplinary teams and provide guidance under pressure.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 10+ Years experience in mission operations, launch systems, or a related aerospace field.
  • Expertise in reusable launch systems.
  • Familiarity with mission control software and systems integration.
  • Experience in developing launch commit criteria and real-time response protocols

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) 

Compensation

Target Levels:

  • Level 3 range: $123,000 - $184,400
  • Level 4 range: $144,100 - $240,100
  • Level 5 range: $168,100 - $312,200

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.

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