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Nasa Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineering Manager

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical ... As our Systems Engineering Manager, you will lead a dynamic and growing team of approximately 12 ...

Systems Engineering Manager

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical ... As our Systems Engineering Manager, you will lead a dynamic and growing team of approximately 12 ...

NASA enforces REAL ID requirements for all visitors and badge holders. Please visit www.dhs.gov/real-id to view a list of compliant documents. The successful candidate will join the Engineering ...

NASA enforces REAL ID requirements for all visitors and badge holders. Please visit www.dhs.gov/real-id to view a list of compliant documents. The successful candidate will join the Engineering ...

Principal Electrical Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site +1

$142K - $174K/yr

Preferred Qualifications MSEE or PhD in Electrical Engineering. Experience supporting NASA, DoD, NRO, SDA, Space Force, or commercial space programs. Experience with radiation-tolerant, radiation ...

Showing results 41-60

Nasa Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$29

$63

How much do nasa engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for nasa engineering in Virginia is $29.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $32.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a NASA engineer do?

NASA engineers are responsible for designing, building, testing, and maintaining spacecraft, satellites, rockets, and other technology used in space exploration and research. They work in a variety of engineering fields, such as aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. NASA engineers collaborate on missions that advance scientific knowledge and develop technologies that benefit both space exploration and life on Earth. Their work involves problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork to overcome the unique challenges of working in space.

What are some common challenges engineers face when working on NASA projects?

NASA engineers often encounter unique challenges, such as working with strict safety standards, tight deadlines, and complex interdisciplinary teams. Projects may involve cutting-edge technology, requiring constant learning and adaptability. Additionally, engineers must be prepared to troubleshoot unexpected technical issues and communicate effectively with scientists, technicians, and other stakeholders to ensure mission success. The ability to handle pressure and collaborate across various specialties is vital in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a NASA engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a NASA Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, mathematics, and problem-solving, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree and sometimes advanced studies. Familiarity with specialized software such as MATLAB, CAD tools, and simulation systems, along with security clearances and professional certifications like a PE license, are commonly required. Exceptional teamwork, communication, and creativity help individuals contribute to complex multidisciplinary projects and adapt to rapidly changing mission requirements. These skills ensure the successful design, testing, and deployment of innovative aerospace technologies critical to NASA's objectives.

What is the difference between Nasa Engineering vs Aerospace Engineering?

AspectNasa EngineeringAerospace Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, often with NASA-specific trainingBachelor's or higher in aerospace or mechanical engineering
Work EnvironmentNASA facilities, research centers, space missionsAircraft design, testing labs, aerospace companies
Industry UsagePrimarily within NASA and government space agenciesCommercial aerospace, defense, research institutions

Nasa Engineering focuses on space missions, spacecraft, and research within NASA, often requiring specialized knowledge of NASA projects. Aerospace Engineering covers a broader field including aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Nasa Engineering is more specialized towards space exploration and NASA-specific projects, whereas Aerospace Engineering offers wider career opportunities in commercial and defense sectors.

Can engineers work for NASA?

Yes, engineers can work for NASA in various roles such as aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering. These positions typically require relevant degrees, technical skills, and security clearances, and often involve working on spacecraft, satellites, and research projects within a highly technical environment.

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

The top searched job categories for Nasa Engineering jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Nasa Engineering jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Nasa Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Nasa Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,897 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Flight Termination Systems Engineer

Relative Dynamics

Newport News, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

At Relative Dynamics we value knowledge as a process rather than knowledge as an answer. Founded in 2011, our goal is to define the new space era by continuously pushing the boundaries of engineering, models, services, and technology development. Visit us at www.relativedynamicsinc.com .
Relative Dynamics is a subcontractor supporting the NASA Safety and Mission Assurance Services III (SMAS III) contract at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). In this role, you will be employed by Relative Dynamics and assigned to work on projects in support of SMAS III. We are seeking a highly skilled Electrical Engineer specializing in Flight Termination Systems (FTS) to join the aerospace engineering team in the Range Safety Operations Division at Wallops Flight Facility. This position is located on site at NASA Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, VA.
This role is critical to ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of launch vehicle operations. The incumbent will review designs, test, and certify FTS hardware and electronics that meet stringent regulatory and mission requirements. The SMAS III contract provides full life cycle hardware and software quality oversight, reliability and risk assessments, system safety design, operational support, and related services to NASA's science and exploration missions and ground support elements, including the Roman Space Telescope (RST) and the Dragonfly (Titan moon) probe. The program also provides flight safety analysis and operational support for NASA/Wallops orbital and suborbital rockets, balloons, and other aerial projects.
What You'll Get to Do:
FTS Design Review & Certification
  • Review, test, and certify FTS hardware and electronics against regulatory and mission requirements
  • Ensure the safety, reliability, and compliance of launch vehicle operations

Systems Testing & Environmental Qualification
  • Perform and evaluate environmental testing (thermal, vibration, EMI/EMC) on safety-critical hardware

Range Safety Compliance & Documentation
  • Apply NASA, MIL-STD, and FAA range safety and FTS requirements across design and certification activities

Required Skills & Background
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, with 5+ years of experience in aerospace or defense electronics, including FTS or safety-critical systems.
  • Experience with FTS and/or safety-critical systems for rockets.
  • Strong knowledge of Radio Frequency (RF) systems, command destruct receivers, and high-reliability circuit design.
  • Familiarity with NASA, MIL-STD, and FAA range safety and FTS requirements.
  • Hands-on experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, EMI/EMC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in cross-disciplinary teams.
  • Security clearance may be required depending on program.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with launch vehicle avionics and telemetry systems.
  • Knowledge of redundancy design and fault-tolerant architectures.
  • Prior work with government ranges (e.g., NASA Wallops Island, Eastern Range, Western Range).
  • Familiarity with DO-254 certification processes.

Who You Are:
  • A self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment
  • A quick learner who is always ready to gain depth of knowledge
  • A reliable worker who knows the importance of showing up when it counts
  • Accept assignments with open, cooperative, positive, and team-oriented attitudes
  • Able to plan and execute plans across teams
  • Effective communicator, both written and verbal

What You'll Enjoy:
  • Competitive wage and benefits package
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life/disability insurance
  • Vacation and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 401k with company match
  • Employee referral program
  • Community involvement, investing and giving back to the community

Relative Dynamics conducts a comprehensive background check that includes drug testing. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status.