ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rocket Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kavaliro

L5 / L6 Rocket Engineer

Canoga Park, CA · On-site

$109K - $149K/yr

... rocket engine systems. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in the design and ... Work with designers and project engineers by providing analysis support. Required Skills:

Rocket Lawyer

AI/ML Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$165K - $190K/yr

About Rocket Lawyer We believe everyone deserves access to affordable and simple legal services ... About your role Rocket Lawyer is seeking an experienced, passionate AI/ML software engineer for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRocket Engineer JobsRocket Engineer Jobs in California

Rocket Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$100.4K

$135.7K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket engineer in California is $100,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Rocket Engineers face when working on launch vehicle projects?

Rocket Engineers often encounter challenges related to strict safety requirements, tight project deadlines, and complex multidisciplinary collaboration. Coordinating with teams in propulsion, avionics, and structural engineering is essential to ensure all systems integrate seamlessly. Additionally, adapting designs to new technologies and rigorous testing protocols can require creative problem-solving and a flexible mindset. These challenges make the role both demanding and highly rewarding for those passionate about aerospace innovation.

How much do rocket engineers make?

Rocket engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those working for major aerospace companies can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 with specialized skills in propulsion, systems design, or project management.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, software, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in large corporations or high-demand industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior rocket engineers, aerospace engineers, and systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in propulsion, avionics, or project management can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often require working in high-stakes environments, with certifications and leadership responsibilities contributing to higher compensation.

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

To thrive as a Rocket Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, propulsion analysis tools, and industry-standard simulation systems, as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork abilities set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and innovative design and launch of rockets.

What is the difference between Rocket Engineer vs Propulsion Engineer?

AspectRocket EngineerPropulsion Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; certifications varySimilar degrees; specialized in propulsion systems; certifications may include propulsion-specific training
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development of rockets and launch systemsFocus on propulsion components like engines and thrusters within aerospace projects
Industry UsageUsed across aerospace companies, space agencies, and defense contractorsPrimarily in aerospace, satellite, and space exploration industries
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for roles involving rocket design and launch systemsCompared when focusing on propulsion system development and testing

Rocket Engineers and Propulsion Engineers share overlapping skills and work environments, but Rocket Engineers typically oversee entire rocket systems, while Propulsion Engineers specialize in propulsion components. Both roles are vital in aerospace projects and often collaborate closely.

What do rocket engineers do?

Rocket engineers design, develop, and test spacecraft propulsion systems, structures, and related components. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and simulations to ensure safety and performance in aerospace environments. Their work often involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and adherence to strict safety and industry standards.
What are popular job titles related to Rocket Engineer jobs in California? For Rocket Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rocket Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rocket Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rocket Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Rocket Engineer job openings:
Rocket Engineer jobs near you
L5 / L6 Rocket Engineer

L5 / L6 Rocket Engineer

Kavaliro

Canoga Park, CA • On-site

$109K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job Summary:
  • A qualified candidate shall have the capability to lead the analysis, design, and optimization of turbomachinery for liquid rocket engine systems. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in the design and performance analysis of inducers, impellers, volutes, pumps, turbines, and other associated rotating machinery operating in cryogenic and high temperature environments. This role requires strong understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and hydrodynamics, and their application to high-speed turbomachinery.
  • Shall have a strong understanding of cavitation and NPSH analysis, rotor-stator interaction, tip leakage flows, secondary flow losses, high-temperature turbine cooling techniques.
  • Familiarity with engine cycles (gas generator, staged combustion, expander, etc.), cryogenic propellants, high-speed rotating equipment reliability.
  • May coordinate risk and opportunity management for development and production programs.

Essential Functions:
  • 65% - Perform all or a combination of analysis related to thermodynamics, aerodynamics, hydrodynamics, and computational fluid dynamics. Responsible for utilizing a combination of commercial and in-house developed software tools, and/or hand calculation methods to correlate analysis models and review test data.
  • 15% - Strengthens the technical capacity of the Company and facilitates transfer of technology by mentoring less experienced engineers and team members.
  • 10% - Produce analysis reports and test reports. Present analysis to both internal and external customers.
  • 10% - Support verification tests. Work with designers and project engineers by providing analysis support.

Required Skills:
  • Candidate must have a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or the equivalent combination of education and a minimum of 9 years of experience.
  • Strong background in aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics.
  • High proficiency in utilization of commercial codes such as: ANSYS, Workbench/FLUINT/CFX, CFD++.
  • Experience programming in MATLAB, FORTRAN, Python.
  • Master of Science in Engineering or higher.
Kavaliro provides Equal Employment Opportunities to all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment 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. Kavaliro is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, Kavaliro will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please respond to this posting to connect with a company representative.
Job Requirements
Hybrid
By using best practices and optimal employee recruiting strategies, Kavaliro provides employers with employment solutions by providing the most qualified and professional employees, who can staff both project and permanent positions in order to ensure the ongoing success of all types of businesses. We use a streamlined-yet-thorough approach to staffing that saves our clients administrative time, resources and money.

Apply