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Launch Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apex

Launch Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies ...

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 delivery and transition to stable operations. This is hands-on launch ownership, not coordination. You ...

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 delivery and transition to stable operations. This is hands-on launch ownership, not coordination. You ...

IESE Solutions

Launch Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

IESE Solutions is seeking a Launch Systems Engineer to support and drive execution of launch integration efforts under the Space Systems Command (SSC) organizations of the US Space Force (USSF) in El ...

KBR

Launch Support SME

El Segundo, CA

$162K - $223K/yr

Launch Support SME Launch Support SME Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR, Inc.

Launch Support SME

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$162K - $223K/yr

Launch Support SME Launch Support SME Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

IESE Solutions

Launch Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

IESE Solutions is seeking a Launch Systems Engineer to support and drive execution of launch integration efforts under the Space Systems Command (SSC) organizations of the US Space Force (USSF) in El ...

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 customers and strengthen their core business. Customers include Coinbase, Bilt Rewards, Alibaba, Qatar ...

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 thrive on solving real problems in diverse environments. We are looking for a propulsion and fluids ...

Acara Solutions

Launch Engineer EGSE

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

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

New

K2 Space

Principal Launch Mission Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

The rise of heavy-lift launch vehicles is shifting the industry from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance, and we believe this new era demands a fundamentally different class of ...

Skio

Launch Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

As a Launch Engineer, you will onboard new merchants, provide best practices support for custom-built solutions, and resolve any technical challenges involving the Skio Platform. You'll guide ...

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All JobsLaunch JobsLaunch Jobs in California

Launch information

See California salary details

$15

$36

$60

How much do launch jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for launch in California is $36.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $54.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in launch management roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in launch management roles often face challenges such as coordinating cross-functional teams, managing tight timelines, and addressing unforeseen issues that arise before and after a product or project launch. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and maintaining clear documentation can help mitigate risks and ensure a smoother launch process.

What is the difference between Launch vs Product Manager?

AspectLaunchProduct Manager
Primary FocusLaunching new products or servicesManaging the entire product lifecycle
Required SkillsProject coordination, marketing, communicationProduct development, strategy, user research
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, marketing, salesDevelopment teams, design, marketing
Common UsageIn startups, marketing campaigns, product launchesIn tech companies, software development, product planning

While both roles involve bringing products to market, Launch focuses on the execution and initial release, whereas Product Managers oversee the entire product lifecycle, including strategy, development, and improvement.

What is a launch manager?

Launch managers are professionals responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing the introduction of new products, services, or projects to the market. They work with cross-functional teams to ensure all aspects of the launch, such as marketing, operations, supply chain, and technical requirements, are aligned and executed smoothly. Their role includes developing launch strategies, managing timelines, identifying potential risks, and measuring the success of the launch to ensure organizational goals are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product launch manager?

To thrive as a Product Launch Manager, you need expertise in project management, marketing strategy, and cross-functional coordination, often supported by a degree in business or marketing. Familiarity with tools like project management software (e.g., Asana, Jira), CRM platforms, and analytics systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help you navigate complex launch processes and collaborate across teams. These skills are vital to ensure successful, timely product launches that align with business goals and market demands.
What are the most commonly searched types of Launch jobs in California? The most popular types of Launch jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Launch jobs in California? For Launch jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Launch jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Launch jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Launch jobs? Cities in California with the most Launch job openings:
Launch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Launch job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,103 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Launch Engineer

Apex

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
About the Role
Apex is seeking a dynamic, organized, and driven Launch Engineer to join our expanding team. As a company at the forefront of space exploration and satellite technology, Apex is looking for an individual capable of owning complex projects and serving as the primary liaison between our internal teams and launch providers while also leading launch campaigns. The Launch Engineer is also responsible for setting up companywide processes to ensure our vehicles launch reliably.
**We are open to considering candidates across multiple levels, so if this opportunity interests you but the posted range does not fully align with your expectations, we still encourage you to apply
Responsibilities:
  • Manage and coordinate the integration of satellite payloads with various launch vehicles.
  • Work closely with launch providers to define mission requirements, interfaces, and integration schedules.
  • Develop and maintain satellite launch plans, procedures, and readiness reviews.
  • Oversee satellite transportation, handling, and pre-launch processing at launch sites.
  • Ensure compatibility between the satellite and launch vehicle, including mechanical, electrical, and environmental interfaces.
  • Support environmental testing (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC) to validate satellite launch readiness.
  • Conduct system-level checkouts and troubleshooting during pre-launch and countdown operations.
  • Interface with regulatory agencies to secure launch approvals and compliance with international spaceflight standards. Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 submittal processes.
  • Provide real-time technical support during launch campaigns, including anomaly resolution.
  • Collaborate with internal teams, including mechanical, avionics, and systems engineers, to optimize satellite integration processes.

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • At least 5 years of experience in production scheduling, preferably in a manufacturing or aerospace environment.
  • Experience in satellite manufacturing or related industries (aerospace, defense, or high-tech) is strongly preferred.
  • Experience working with launch vehicle providers
  • Previous launch campaign ownership
  • Hands-on experience with satellite testing, integration, and environmental qualification
  • Proven track record of successfully managing complex projects with multiple interdependent tasks.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other office productivity tools.
  • Experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing timelines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with the ability to prioritize and adapt to changing demands.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively across the Apex team
  • High attention to detail with a focus on technical accuracy of launch regulatory documents
  • Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-changing environment with shifting priorities and deadlines.

#LI-RC1
Why Join Apex?
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.
What We Offer For Full-time Employees:
  • Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
  • Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
  • Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
  • Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
  • Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
  • Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
  • World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
  • Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

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