ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Launch Vehicle Design Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaunch Vehicle Design Engineer JobsLaunch Vehicle Design Engineer Jobs in Florida

Launch Vehicle Design Engineer information

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?

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 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 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.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Launch Vehicle Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Launch Vehicle Design Engineer job openings:

Launch Vehicle Project Engineer

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

ManTech International
IT Services • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about ManTech Internationalexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

ManTech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

General information
Requisition #
R68660
Locations
USA-FL-Cape Canaveral
Posting Date
06/12/2026
Security Clearance Required
None
Remote Type
Onsite
Time Type
Full time
Description & Requirements
Shape the future of defense with MANTECH! Join a team dedicated to safeguarding our nation through advanced tech and innovative solutions. Since 1968, we've been a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, delivering cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. Dive into exciting opportunities in Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and more. Propel your career forward and be part of something extraordinary. Your journey starts now-protect and innovate with MANTECH!
MANTECH seeks a highly talented Launch Vehicle Project Engineer with experience related to Launch Vehicle (LV) systems to help the Space Force redefine the future of National Security Space Launch (NSSL). This position is based in Cape Canaveral, FL.
This position will support the United States Space Force (USSF) System Delta 80 New Entrant Launch Operations Division.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Provide Launch Vehicle Systems Engineering Expertise at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, FL, in areas such as propulsion, avionics, structures, mechanical systems, guidance navigation and control (GNC), mission analysis, software, manufacturing engineering, mission assurance, and launch operations.
  • Perform core systems engineering functions including requirements definition, design and test reviews, hardware acceptance, performance assessments, verification, operations, post-flight analyses, and failure analysis. Provide risk assessments and mitigation planning throughout the engineering lifecycle.
  • Support missions and launch operations by preparing Customer teams for launch contractor reviews, audits, site walkdowns, rehearsals, launch operations, and anomaly resolution. Perform technical and engineering data management by ensuring separation and protection of proprietary information.
  • Collaborate with The Aerospace Corporation (Aerospace), new launch contractors, launch site personnel, production teams, and suppliers to achieve mission objectives.
  • Serve as a technical authority by assisting U.S. Space Force (USSF) customers with Chief Engineer briefings, Weekly Status Reviews, and Space Systems Command processes. Use sound judgment and analytical decision-making to address multi-disciplinary engineering challenges.
  • Demonstrate extensive knowledge of Launch Vehicle (LV) and range systems through experience with LV systems such as liquid propellant rocket engines, ordnance, hydraulics, in-flight avionics, ground support equipment, structures, and composite materials, as well as knowledge of USSF and NASA launch and range systems, operations, and testing processes.
  • Perform engineering tasks with independence, initiative, collaboration, proactive problem solving, and customer support. Utilize strong capability to assess requirements, design drawings, processes, procedures of engineering systems, and perform risk assessments, design reviews, and failure analysis.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in an Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical) or STEM field. 1.5 years relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of each 1 year of education/degree requirement
  • 5+ years systems engineering, technical program management, or other related areas.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with space, launch, and safety standards.
  • Experience with USSF, NASA, National Reconnaissance Office, and LCs preferred.
  • Experience with agile software products, such as Warp Core, Jira, Confluence, MS Office Suite, SharePoint, Google Workspace, and Information Technology systems is highly preferred.
  • Ability to create and deliver thoughtful and articulate written and verbal presentations and reports to senior engineers and management.
  • Previous project management experience preferred.

Clearance Requirements:
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret clearance.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50%.
  • Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine and computer printer.
  • Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers, which may involve delivering presentations. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.

MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.

What ManTech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply