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Launch Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Acara Solutions

Launch Engineer EGSE

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Additionally, EGSE Launch Engineers function as launch operators to support the testing and launch of the Alpha rocket, leveraging succinct communication skills in a fast-paced team environment to ...

Zipline

Launch Manager

South San Francisco, CA

$140K - $180K/yr

As a Launch Manager, you will own deployments in assigned markets from approval through first ... Build the systems, tools, operating rhythms, and readiness mechanisms that make launches safe, fast ...

Zipline

Launch Manager

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

As a Launch Manager, you will own deployments in assigned markets from approval through first ... Build the systems, tools, operating rhythms, and readiness mechanisms that make launches safe, fast ...

Firefly Aerospace

Fluids Launch Engineer I

Lompoc, CA · On-site

SUMMARY The Launch team is hiring for high-impact, dynamic engineering positions for those who ... Experience designing, building, troubleshooting and/or operating complex fluid or pneumatic systems ...

Firefly Aerospace

Fluids Launch Engineer I

Lompoc, CA · On-site

SUMMARY The Launch team is hiring for high-impact, dynamic engineering positions for those who ... Experience designing, building, troubleshooting and/or operating complex fluid or pneumatic systems ...

Firefly Aerospace

Launch Engineer, EGSE

Lompoc, CA · On-site

Additionally EGSE Launch Engineers function as a launch operators to support the testing and launch of the Alpha rocket, leveraging succinct communication skills in a fast paced team environment to ...

Firefly Aerospace

Launch Engineer, EGSE

Lompoc, CA · On-site

Additionally EGSE Launch Engineers function as a launch operators to support the testing and launch of the Alpha rocket, leveraging succinct communication skills in a fast paced team environment to ...

Acara Solutions

Fluids Launch Engineer I

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$93K - $107K/yr

Fluids Launch Engineer I Location: Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA Employment Type: Direct Hire ... troubleshooting or operating complex fluid or pneumatic systems in an operational or project ...

Long Wall

Head of Launch Systems

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible ... Lead detailed system design, operating as 'player/coach' with work split biased towards lead ...

Long Wall

Head of Launch Systems

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible ... Lead detailed system design, operating as 'player/coach' with work split biased towards lead ...

Cardless, Inc

Program Launch Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$145K - $180K/yr

Brands use Cardless to configure, launch, and grow credit card programs that delight their ... People who have sat in this seat have gone on to senior operating and product roles here, and we ...

Long Wall

Head of Launch Systems

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$145K - $230K/yr

Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible ... Lead detailed system design, operating as 'player/coach' with work split biased towards lead ...

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All JobsLaunch Operator JobsLaunch Operator Jobs in California

Launch Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$26

How much do launch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for launch operator in California is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Launch Operator vs Rocket Technician?

AspectLaunch OperatorRocket Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsTechnical diploma or certification in aerospace or mechanical fields
Work EnvironmentLaunch sites, control centers, and testing facilitiesManufacturing plants, testing labs, and launch sites
Industry UsagePrimarily in space agencies, aerospace companies, and defense contractorsIn aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, and testing facilities

While both Launch Operators and Rocket Technicians work in the aerospace industry and may share similar environments, Launch Operators focus on overseeing launch procedures and operations, ensuring safety and compliance. Rocket Technicians are more involved in the maintenance, assembly, and testing of rocket components. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the space industry.

What is a launch operator?

Launch Operators are professionals responsible for managing and operating the equipment and systems used to launch vessels, such as boats or ships, from docks or slipways. They ensure the safe and efficient launching and recovery of watercraft, often working at marinas, boatyards, or ports. Their duties typically include handling winches, ramps, and cradles, coordinating with boat owners or crew, and performing routine maintenance on launch equipment. Safety and attention to detail are crucial in this role to prevent accidents and damage to vessels.

What are some typical challenges faced by a launch operator, and how can they be managed effectively?

Launch Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams under tight schedules, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and quickly troubleshooting technical issues that arise during launch operations. Effective communication and a thorough understanding of standard operating procedures are essential for managing these challenges. Staying updated with safety training and participating in regular drills can also help Launch Operators remain prepared for unexpected situations, ensuring smooth and safe operations.

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

To thrive as a Launch Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and often a relevant certification or license such as a marine or boating license. Familiarity with vessel operation systems, radio communication equipment, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, clear communication, and teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient handling of vessels and passengers, reducing risk and enhancing operational reliability.
What are popular job titles related to Launch Operator jobs in California? For Launch Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Launch Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Launch Operator jobs in California are:
Launch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Launch Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,045 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Launch Engineer EGSE

Acara Solutions

Lompoc, CA • On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Launch Engineer EGSE II & III
Location: Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Industry: Aerospace & Defense
Compensation: Level II $110,151.00 - $130,304.00/Year
Compensation: Level III $130,000.00 - $160,000.00/Year
Schedule: 40 Hours/Week
About the Opportunity:
  • The client Controls and Instrumentation Engineers on the Launch Team leverage their creative background and expertise to design data acquisition, controls, and automation systems used to support integration, test, and launch of the client vehicles. Controls and Instrumentation Engineers are responsible for the design, fabrication, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems for the client launch team and must apply knowledge of electronic, mechanical, and fluid transport principles to ensure the communication of data is optimally configured. You will have full ownership of your project from the initial concept through all phases of project development. Additionally, EGSE Launch Engineers function as launch operators to support the testing and launch of the Alpha rocket, leveraging succinct communication skills in a fast-paced team environment to achieve payload delivery to orbit.
Why You'll Love Working Here:
  • Supportive, team-driven culture that values collaboration, transparency, and accountability.
  • Opportunity to grow your career with a global workforce solutions leader serving multiple industries.
  • People-first environment that encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work.
  • Strong focus on partnership, innovation, and delivering meaningful results for clients and candidates.
Why This Opportunity is Exciting:
This role offers the chance to join a company that prioritises both people and performance-where your contributions directly impact client success while giving you room to grow and develop professionally.
About Acara Solutions
Acara is a premier recruiting and workforce solutions provider-we help companies compete for talent. With a legacy of experience in various industries worldwide, we partner with clients, listen to their needs, and customize visionary talent solutions that drive desired business outcomes. We leverage decades of experience to deliver contingent staffing, direct placement, executive search, and workforce services worldwide.
Sound like a good fit?
APPLY TODAY
What You'll Do:
  • Design data and control systems for the launch site, including data and control I/O diagrams, instrument and control cable schedules, instrument loop diagrams, junction box wiring diagrams, and control panel layout and wiring diagrams.
  • Create and conduct in-house testing and development of equipment and software
  • Obtain and evaluate vendor quotations for all required instrumentation and electrical equipment
  • Work with launch personnel in performing checkouts, commissioning, and calibration of pad electrical systems
  • Design, develop, and test controls, communications, human-machine interface, and PLC systems for equipment involving electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems
  • Work with operations team to ensure compliance with all regulatory and safety requirements, timely build of equipment, and cost efficiency
  • Manage all aspects of controls and data acquisition installation, including design, personnel training, engineering support to launch technicians, and equipment commissioning
  • Perform launch site checkouts and support launch day operations.

What You'll Bring:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering or Aerospace Engineering
  • 1+ years of professional experience with data acquisition and control systems for Aerospace ground systems, Aerospace vehicle systems, Food and Beverage, or Oil and Gas facilities
  • 1+ years of experience with National Instruments Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) for configuring and troubleshooting devices for use with LabVIEW
  • 1+ years of experience with hazard and risk analysis tools (i.e., FMEA, FMECA, FHA, HAZOP, etc.)
What Sets You Apart:
  • Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering or Aerospace Engineering
  • 3+ years of professional experience with data acquisition and control systems for Aerospace ground systems, Aerospace vehicle systems, Food and Beverage, or Oil and Gas facilities
  • The ability to mentor junior engineers and technicians on electrical systems
  • Familiarity with Industrial Ethernet and control-specific networking protocols (i.e., ModbusTCP/RTU, RS-485, RS-232, Analog Communication)
  • Working knowledge of AFSPCMAN 91-710, NASA- STD-5005, GSFC-STD-8009, RCC 319/324, etc.
  • Ability to create process flow diagrams (P&IDs, schematics, cause & effect chart, control narrative, instrument index)
  • Familiarity with NFPA, NEC, UL and ISA codes and electrical codes and requirements
  • Ability to assist in building of panels and electrical harnessing based off drawings
  • Proficiency in programming/configuring PLCs and HMI systems across multiple platforms
  • Working knowledge of multiple bus architectures (PCI/PCIe, PXI/PXIe, GPIB, Serial, USB, etc.) and data communication technologies
Additional Information:
  • Upon offer of employment, the individual will be subject to a background check and drug screen.

After you apply, you may receive a call or message from our AI Talent Scout about this role or other opportunities that match your skills and preferences. AI agent role is to help speed up your hiring process by answering questions, confirming basic information, and identifying whether there's a mutual fit.

The call or chat may be recorded so that our recruiting team can review it - they make all final hiring decisions, while AI agent simply helps move you forward faster. The best part? They are available 24/7, so you can connect whenever it's convenient for you.

By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Acara Solutions and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at Website Privacy Policy | Acara

Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.

Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.
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About Acara Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Acara Solutions, based in Buffalo, NY, is a premier provider of recruitment and workforce solutions. Serving the industry since its inception in 1957, the company has expanded its roots from a small family-owned employment agency to a leading international recruitment agency. Acara provides staffing solutions to a myriad of industries including Engineering, IT, Professional, Industrial and Finance. They offer an array of services from strategic workforce management, talent acquisition, vendor management systems, to executive search services. Driven by the core values of dedication, integrity, teamwork and innovation, Acara exists with the mission to connect job seekers with leading employers while fostering growth and innovation in the industries they serve. A prominent player in the US staffing industry, Acara Solutions has been recognized multiple times on the Staffing Industry Analysts List of Largest US Staffing Firms.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Buffalo, NY, US

Year founded

1957

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