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Launch Vehicle Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xbow

Launch Vehicle Electrical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

X-Bow Systems is seeking a Launch Vehicle Electrical Engineer with at least 10 years of experience ... The candidate should have expertise in avionics design and integration, cable harness design and ...

804 Technology

Air Vehicle Design Engineer

Wichita, KS

$180K/yr

Air Vehicle Design Engineers will take responsibility for planning, optimizing, and executing complex aircraft structural design assignments and integration of LRU's and Wire Harnesses. This will ...

Stoke Space

Senior Structures Design Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$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 ...

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Launch Vehicle Design Engineer information

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

As of Jun 8, 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.

Launch Vehicle Electrical Engineer

Xbow

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

About Us:

X-Bow Systems is a cutting-edge aerospace technology company focused on revolutionizing propulsion systems for space exploration and defense applications. Our team of innovative engineers and scientists is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in rocket propulsion. As we continue to expand our operations, we are seeking a talented and driven Electrical Engineer to join our team.

Job Description:

X-Bow Systems is seeking a Launch Vehicle Electrical Engineer with at least 10 years of experience. The candidate should have expertise in avionics design and integration, cable harness design and integration, and be proficient in using CAD tools for cable harness design. An engineer with experience with telemetry and RF systems is strongly desired.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, select, and integrate avionics systems for launch vehicles.
  • Develop, select, and integrate telemetry and RF systems for launch vehicles.
  • Develop detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and manufacturing drawings for cable harnesses using CAD tools.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams for electrical system design and integration.
  • Conduct functional testing and validation of electrical systems.
  • Support integration and test within Hardware in the Loop (HWIL) labs.
  • Design ordnance initiation circuits to meet NASA range flight safety and Flight Termination System requirements.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
  • 10 years of experience in avionics, telemetry, and cable harness design and integration.
  • Proficiency in cable harness design using CAD tools.
  • Familiarity or experience with the following systems:
  • Flight Computers
  • Batteries
  • Power Management
  • Ordnance Initiation
  • Telemetry Systems

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience with telemetry systems and RF systems.
  • Experience testing integrated Launch Vehicle electrical systems.
  • Experience with SolidWorks Electrical CAD and PDM software.
  • Experience operating in HWIL labs.
  • Experience with ordnance and ordnance initiation circuits.
  • Experience in Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design.
  • Software development experience.
  • Experience in cable harness manufacturing.
  • Familiarity with Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE).
  • Familiarity with Flight Termination Systems (FTS) and RCC 319 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, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a 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.

    X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is based on merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protectedstatus.

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