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Launch Vehicle Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Launch Support SME

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering or related major * Over 15 years of space launch experience (launch vehicle design, build, and test) * Experience with classified ...

KBR, Inc.

Launch Support SME

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering or related major * Over 15 years of space launch experience (launch vehicle design, build, and test) * Experience with classified ...

Stoke Space

Structures Design Engineer

Kent, WA

$109K - $148K/yr

Description Fully reusable launch vehicles are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space. As an aerospace Structures Design Engineer on this launch vehicle, you will own the design, analysis ...

Stoke Space

Senior Structures Design Engineer

Kent, WA

$151K - $252K/yr

Description Fully reusable launch vehicles are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space. As a Senior Structures Design Engineer on this launch vehicle, you will provide technical leadership ...

Stoke Space

Structures Design Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

Description Fully reusable launch vehicles are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space. As an aerospace Structures Design Engineer on this launch vehicle, you will own the design, analysis ...

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Launch Vehicle Design Engineer information

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$33.5K

$87K

$130.5K

How much do launch vehicle design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for launch vehicle design engineer in the United States is $87,037.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Launch Vehicle Design Engineers during the development process?

Launch Vehicle Design Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing performance, safety, and cost constraints while meeting strict project deadlines. They must frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, such as propulsion, avionics, and systems engineers, to resolve integration issues and ensure that all subsystems work seamlessly together. Additionally, adapting to evolving requirements and rapidly changing technologies requires strong problem-solving skills and flexibility. Navigating these challenges successfully is key to delivering reliable launch vehicles that meet mission objectives.

What does a Launch Vehicle Design Engineer do?

A Launch Vehicle Design Engineer is responsible for designing and developing rockets and other vehicles that carry payloads into space. They work on various aspects such as structural design, propulsion systems, aerodynamics, and integration of complex subsystems. Their work involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the vehicle meets safety, performance, and mission requirements. They also use advanced modeling and simulation tools to optimize designs and support testing and manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Launch Vehicle Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Launch Vehicle Design Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, and structural analysis, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and simulation platforms like MATLAB or ANSYS is essential, along with familiarity with industry standards and possibly a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills are vital for collaborating across multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design of launch vehicles, which is crucial for mission success and safety.

What is the difference between Launch Vehicle Design Engineer vs Propulsion Engineer?

AspectLaunch Vehicle Design EngineerPropulsion Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; specialized knowledge in vehicle designBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering; focus on propulsion systems
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, simulation environments, and manufacturing facilitiesTest facilities, laboratories, and integration sites
Industry UsageDesigning entire launch vehicles for space missionsDeveloping and testing propulsion systems for rockets and spacecraft

While both roles require aerospace engineering expertise, the Launch Vehicle Design Engineer focuses on overall vehicle architecture, whereas the Propulsion Engineer specializes in rocket engines and propulsion systems. Both collaborate closely in space mission development but have distinct technical focuses.

Infographic showing various Launch Vehicle Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,037 per year, or $41.8 per hour.
Principal Launch Vehicle Design Engineer II

Principal Launch Vehicle Design Engineer II

CesiumAstro

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.

We are looking to add a Principal Launch Vehicle Design Engineer II to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment, and have expertise in the structural and thermal design of launch vehicle (LV) components and systems, including tanks, fairings, and related hardware, we would like to hear from you
 
In this position, you serve as a subject matter expert, overseeing subsystem development from concept through flight, while ensuring compliance with performance, safety, and reliability requirements. This role requires both deep technical expertise and the ability to guide and mentor engineering teams within a fast-paced start-up environment.
 
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in FEA and thermal simulations, combined with hands-on experience in experimental development and testing of high-performance aerospace systems. This role involves close collaboration with an international R&D team to optimize performance and reliability of LV hardware.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead the design, analysis, and development of primary and secondary launch vehicle structures, stage interfaces, and payload accommodations.
  • Perform static and transient structural and thermal analysis of LV components and systems to ensure mechanical integrity under operational loads.
  • Develop and execute test programs, analyze experimental data, and apply findings to optimize designs.
  • Prepare CAD models for FEA analysis and manufacturing.
  • Generate technical documentation, including reports, specifications, and contributions to PDRs and CDRs.
  • Collaborate across mechanical, aerospace, and controls engineering teams to deliver flight-ready systems.
  • Mentor junior and senior engineers to build technical understanding and professional development.
  • Participate in mission operations, anomaly investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 11+ years of industry experience in aerospace design and analysis.
  • Expertise in Ansys tools: Mechanical, Explicit Dynamics (LS-Dyna), Linear and Nonlinear Eigenvalue Buckling, Harmonic Response, and Random Vibrations.
  • Proficiency in MATLAB for programming, data analysis, and optimization.
  • Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX).
  • Strong foundation in systems engineering principles, requirements flowdown, and integration.
  • Hands-on experience with hardware development, testing, and qualification.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Prior experience with cryogenic systems, liquid rocket systems, and LV components.
  • Hands-on experience designing and improving LV hardware.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing and technological processes for aerospace parts.
  • Familiarity with aerospace safety and reliability practices.
  • Experience in a start-up or rapid development environment.
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.  
 
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.