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Launch Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Launch Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$80K - $120K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Launch Integration Engineer to support national security space missions by integrating satellite programs with launch vehicle providers. This role supports ...

SAIC

Launch Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Launch Integration Engineer to support national security space missions by integrating satellite programs with launch vehicle providers. This role supports ...

SAIC

Launch Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Launch Integration Engineer to support national security space missions by integrating satellite programs with launch vehicle providers. This role supports mission ...

EAB

Associate Director, Launch Consulting

Richmond, VA · On-site

Associate Director, Launch Consulting As a critical member of the Research Growth Strategy team, the Associate Director, Launch Consulting leads the implementation of Decision Engine dashboards ...

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Launch information

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$15

$36

$60

How much do launch jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for launch in Virginia is $36.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $54.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Launch jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Launch jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Launch jobs in Virginia?

For Launch jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Launch jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Launch jobs in Virginia are:

Launch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Launch job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,452 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Test and Launch Engineer II - Launch Pad

Wallops Island, VA • On-site

Rocket Lab Corporation
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Rocket Lab Corporationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven history with Electron – the second most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. If you're interested in joining an incredible team in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity. 

HASTE 

HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations. 

TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II – LAUNCH PAD

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers, developing procedures, conducting real-time operations, analyzing data, and ensuring safe and reliable launches from Mission Control. They are responsible for troubleshooting issues, leading training exercises, and making critical decisions during live missions. Test and Launch Engineer II position is an advanced role for operators who can independently manage console operations, mentor junior staff, and lead projects to improve procedures and systems. This engineer plays a key role in continuous operational improvement and support both Electron and Neutron missions.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Work in Mission Control as a console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations
  • Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations
  • Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control
  • Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
  • Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems issues
  • Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
  • Develop, operate, and test ground systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
  • Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch pad systems including GSE, fluid systems, and industrial controls
  • Lead and manage testing projects for ground systems, including cryogenic loading tests, pressurization system checkouts, and integrated pad operations
  • Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch pad systems and ground operations
  • Author, review and carry out operations procedures for launch pad systems
  • Support the development of Neutron ground systems and operations procedures
  • Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering)
  • 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on ground systems, industrial controls, or fluid systems
  • 4+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

  • 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
  • Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
  • Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative
  • Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
  • Experience with ground support equipment, launch pad systems, or industrial control systems
  • Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/cryogenic/pressurized/hazardous systems
  • Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
  • Experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, or automated control sequences
  • Knowledge of propellant handling operations
  • Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, or HMIs
  • Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia's pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base Pay Range (VA Only)
$87,000—$110,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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