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How much do launch operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for launch operations in the United States is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Launch Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Launch Operations, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, systems integration, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with launch procedures. Familiarity with technical tools such as mission control software, telemetry systems, and safety protocols is crucial. Attention to detail, effective teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities help you excel in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, successful, and timely execution of complex launch missions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Launch Operations, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Launch Operations often encounter challenges such as coordinating cross-functional teams, managing tight launch timelines, and troubleshooting last-minute technical issues. Clear communication, robust contingency planning, and strong attention to detail are essential to address these challenges. Collaborating closely with engineering, safety, and mission control teams helps ensure smooth execution and quick resolution of any issues that arise. Developing a proactive mindset and staying adaptable are also crucial for success in this fast-paced environment.

What are Launch Operations?

Launch operations refer to the coordinated activities and processes involved in preparing, managing, and executing the launch of a spacecraft, satellite, or rocket. This includes mission planning, system integration, countdown procedures, and post-launch monitoring to ensure the safety and success of the mission. Launch operations teams work closely with engineers, mission controllers, and range safety officials to address technical and logistical challenges throughout each phase of the launch process.

What is the difference between Launch Operations vs Flight Operations?

AspectLaunch OperationsFlight Operations
CredentialsTypically requires engineering or technical certifications, sometimes with project management experienceOften requires pilot licenses, aviation certifications, or flight-specific training
Work EnvironmentGround-based, involving coordination of launch activities, equipment, and teamsCan be both ground and in-flight, focusing on managing aircraft or spacecraft during missions
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, space agencies, and commercial launch companiesIn aviation, airlines, and aerospace sectors

Launch Operations and Flight Operations are distinct roles within aerospace. Launch Operations focus on preparing and executing spacecraft or rocket launches from the ground, requiring technical and project management skills. Flight Operations involve managing aircraft or spacecraft during missions, often requiring pilot or flight-specific certifications. Both roles are essential in aerospace but differ in responsibilities, environment, and credentials.

More about Launch Operations jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Launch Operations jobs? The most popular types of Launch Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Launch Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Launch Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Launch Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Launch Operations jobs are:
Launch Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Launch Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 43% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,239 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Launch Engineer - Ground Operations

Launch Engineer - Ground Operations

Stoke Space

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours 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 launch operations engineer for our dedicated launch complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, you will be responsible for developing, commissioning, and operating new launch systems from scratch and serving as a key member of the ground operations team for test and orbital launch campaigns. You will be responsible for engineering, procedures, integration, commissioning, operations, and on-console control. 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
  • On-console control of launch ground systems
  • Own launch readiness, day-of launch console operations, and test & launch campaigns for ground systems
  • Serve as main point of contact for anomaly investigations and own anomaly response and closure for ground systems
  • Develop, maintain, and execute procedures, control logic, and automation sequencing for ground systems
  • Develop and implement test plans and procedures, complete data reviews, and oversee launch readiness reviews for launch site operations
  • Perform real time and post operation data reviews for the ground systems
  • Work closely with vehicle software team, and help architect launch automation
  • Coordinate with multiple departments and disciplines, including headquarters and test, inclusive of software and hardware, to ensure the launch complex is ready to receive, process, integrate and operate high cadence flight hardware
  • Develop, build, operate, and maintain supporting launch facilities including launch control center
  • Continuously improve launch operations and functions to enable high-cadence launch and recovery operations
  • Provide engineering expertise, oversite, and hands-on support during day-to-day site operations
  • Serve as on-console support or pad lead for day-to-day launch pad operations
  • Ensure operations are performed industry best practices and EHS policies are followed. Work with EHS to optimize safety policies and operational procedures to reduce or eliminate risk to personnel

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience as a test site operations engineer, launch site operations engineer, ground controller, and/or flight vehicle controller or equivalent experience with similar high-performance applications (aircraft, missile systems, naval, oil & gas, energy systems, etc).
  • Strong engineering fundamentals across multiple disciplines (thermodynamics, fluids, software, electrical, and/or structures)
  • Ability to troubleshoot problems and implement solutions real time.
  • Ability to architect launch automation logic & sequencing and an understanding of software state machine applications
  • Experience utilizing and enforcing EHS policies including fall protection, lockout/tagout, confined space, hot work, job site safety, hazmat, and waste streams
  • Experience operating and calibrating EHS tools utilized in a launch complex environment including hazardous gas detectors, FLIR cameras, and sound meters
  • Willing and able to travel up to 20% of the time to Stoke HQ and Moses Lake Test Site to help ensure seamless Cape Launch Site operations
  • Ability to prioritize and execute
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to lead
  • Ability to follow
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or similar field.
  • Willing to relocate to Cape Canaveral, FL

Preferred Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience as a test site operations engineer, launch site operations engineer, ground controller, and/or flight vehicle controller or equivalent experience with similar high-performance applications (aircraft, missile systems, naval, oil & gas, energy systems, etc).
  • Experience working hazardous operations including operations with high pressure gas systems, cryogenic liquid systems, high power systems, and/or explosive ordnance
  • Experience performing hazardous analyses for cryogenic and high-pressure gas systems
  • Experience working test and operations of systems involving integration of software, electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems
  • Experience with data acquisition and control systems and sensing elements (pressure, temperature, accelerometers, load cells, infrared, optical, strain gauges, flow meters, etc)
  • Proficient with Python programming language is desirable
  • Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710, MSPSP, and HazOp 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 aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or similar field

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 2 Range: $109,725 - $148,470
  • Level 3 Range: $129,150 - $193,620

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.

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