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Mission Design Engineer information

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$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do mission design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for mission design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mission design engineer do?

A Mission Design Engineer is responsible for planning and designing space missions, including determining spacecraft trajectories, launch windows, and mission timelines. They analyze technical requirements, perform simulations, and optimize mission parameters to ensure the mission's objectives can be achieved efficiently and safely. Mission Design Engineers work closely with other engineering teams to integrate spacecraft systems and address any potential challenges in the mission profile. Their work is crucial in ensuring the success of space exploration, satellite deployment, and other aerospace projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mission design engineer?

To thrive as a Mission Design Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in orbital mechanics, and a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Proficiency with mission analysis tools such as STK, GMAT, and MATLAB, as well as familiarity with simulation and modeling software, is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set outstanding engineers apart. These competencies ensure the creation of successful, efficient, and safe space missions that meet rigorous technical and operational objectives.

What are some typical challenges a mission design engineer faces when coordinating with interdisciplinary teams?

Mission Design Engineers often work closely with specialists in propulsion, avionics, systems engineering, and operations. One common challenge is ensuring that the mission trajectory and requirements are clearly communicated and harmonized across different technical domains. Balancing competing constraints—such as payload capacity, fuel efficiency, and launch windows—requires strong collaboration and negotiation skills. Addressing these challenges successfully can lead to innovative solutions and is key to mission success.

What is the difference between Mission Design Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectMission Design EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; certifications like PMP or specific aerospace credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related fields; certifications like INCOSE CSEP
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning space missions, often in aerospace or defense sectorsIntegrating and managing complex systems across industries like aerospace, defense, or technology
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, space agencies, defense contractorsWidely in aerospace, defense, IT, and manufacturing sectors

While both roles require engineering backgrounds and involve complex technical work, Mission Design Engineers focus specifically on planning and designing space or mission-specific operations. Systems Engineers have a broader scope, managing entire systems' integration and functionality across various industries.

How much do mission design engineers make?

Mission design engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills in spacecraft systems or orbital mechanics can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense industries.

What cities are hiring for Mission Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Mission Design Engineer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Mission Design Engineer jobs?

The top employers for Mission Design Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Mission Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mission Design Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Mission Design Engineer jobs?

For Mission Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mission Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Mission Design Tools Software Engineer P1

Houston, TX • On-site

Oceaneering International, Inc.
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Oceaneering International, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Are you passionate about solving complex problems? Join our dynamic team as a Mission Design Tools Software Engineer and become a vital contributor to support NASA as an Oceaneering Teammate on the JSC Engineering, Technology, and Science (JETS) II contract. As an integral part of our organization, you'll play a crucial role in the On-orbit GN$C and Flight Mechanics section in the Engineering Department on the NASA JSC Engineering, Technology and Science II (JETS II) Contract.
This role will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of human spaceflight and deep space exploration programs. Your contributions will ensure that our services not only meet - but outperform all standards and expectations. As a Mission Design Tools Software Engineer, you'll find yourself at the forefront of innovation, collaborating with a passionate team who shares your dedication to excellence. If you're seeking to immerse yourself in an environment where your skills and expertise will make a genuine impact, we invite you to join our team!
We are seeking someone with a keen eye for detail, a strong commitment to owning their work, and providing superior quality. You should be a person who thrives in a diverse environment and who is comfortable communicating at all levels of the organization. To be successful in this role, you should have a sense of genuine, engaging curiosity, and a desire for growth and continuous learning.
Someone in this role would typically have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering. This position can be hired at any level in our professional career framework, depending on business need at the time of hire.
**International travel may be required. Possible straight time overtime and a 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) **
Responsibilities
As a Mission Design Tools Software Engineer you will:
  • Work on NASA's Mission Design Software Development Team, which provides software development support for a variety of tools that support multiple NASA and commercial programs.
  • Develop variable degree-of-freedom simulations and related software tools for NASA and commercial spaceflight programs
  • Develop, integrate, and test new software enhancements and capabilities within mission design tools
  • Develop software documentation for software deliveries
  • Provide recommendations for improvements in software design and software development processes
  • Support activities to bring mission design software up to Class C, per NPR 7150.2.
  • Maintain mission design software tools at Class C, following established procedures.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications
Required
  • Typically requires a Bachelor's degree in Engineering with experience in the field or related area.
  • Proficient in C++, Fortran, and Python
  • Experience in product delivery utilizing source code management tools such as Git/GitLab
  • Experience with implementing and enforcing software coding standards
  • Experience in the full software lifecycle activities e.g. requirements, design, implementation, testing, and release
  • Proficient in use of CI/CD tools and techniques
  • Proficient in use of software task management/collaboration tools
  • Experience with Agile frameworks, methodologies, and techniques
  • Experience working in multiple environments including Windows, Mac, and Linux
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work in a team environment consisting of NASA civil servants and contractor employees
  • Strong interpersonal skills to enable successful performance in a collaborative engineering team
  • Ability to organize and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and schedules with limited supervision
  • Ability to prepare written documents and to verbally present at meetings
  • Experience with Microsoft Office products.

Preferred
  • Experience with NASA Software Engineering Requirements NPR-7150.2D or DO-178C
  • Experience with NASA Software Assurance and Software Safety Standard.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) is a requirement for this position.
Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised.
Requires working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions
Job tasks are performed in close physical proximity to other people
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factors.

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