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Rocket Engineer Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Mgr I- Eng SW

UT · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

Partnering with developers and engineers to evaluate solid rocket motors, guidance equipment, and propulsion systems. * Strategic Reporting: Translating complex simulation data into technical ...

Showing results 21-40

Rocket Engineer information

See Utah salary details

$35.5K

$92.6K

$125.2K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket engineer in Utah is $92,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $106,100.00 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 and certifications.

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, structural components, and related technologies. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD), and simulation tools to ensure safety, efficiency, and performance of rockets and space vehicles throughout the development process.
Infographic showing various Rocket Engineer job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,632 per year, or $44.5 per hour.
Deputy Chief Engineer - 5

Deputy Chief Engineer - 5

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Corinne, UT • On-site

$152K - $229K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: None
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Expand your horizons, advance your career, and contribute to a secure future for generations. Northrop Grumman's Space Sector invites you to bring your pioneering spirit to our collaborative teams. As a Deputy Chief Engineer - Level 5 located in Promontory, UT, you'll be a linchpin in missions of paramount importance, defining the art of the possible from day one.
The Deputy Chief Engineer is responsible for establishment and execution of all technical aspects of Development, Qualification, and Production of the Stage Three (S3) Solid rocket motors and will work directly with the Chief Engineer. In this role the Deputy Chief Engineer will manage the down and in of the technical products and aspects associated with the design, engineering & manufacturing development (EMD), and the follow-on production phases.
This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off.
Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Perform all assigned Chief Engineer (CE) functions as delegated by the CE
  • Drives technical product to meet program requirements
  • Coordinates expected requirements compliance with customer
  • Supports engineering involvement to new customer directed requirements and scope
  • Manage the Down and In for engineering accountability
  • Sentinel S3 Representative for cross program priority
  • Ability to Travel expectation of 5% - 10%
  • Other duties as assigned

Why you? You're the candidate we're searching for if you are ready to achieve the impossible alongside like-minded innovators.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering with 12 years of professional experience - OR - Master's degree with 10 years of professional experience - OR - PhD with 8 years of professional experience.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government DoD Secret security clearance
  • Ability to work with energetic materials as a U. S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, firearms and explosives; "Employee Possessor" - required
  • Candidate must have a minimum of 3 years of Project Leadership experience.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years in solid rocket motor design and manufacturing experience.
  • Candidate must have demonstrated ability to:
  • Plan and execute complex, fast paced projects
  • Communicate technically complex topics and scenarios clearly and concisely
  • Build relationships necessary to function efficient teams
  • Be capable of actively and efficiently working multiple projects

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong understanding of solid rocket motor system design, development, and manufacture
  • Demonstrated experience with problem solving, problem investigation teams and critical decision-making skills
  • Strong understanding and broad application of PS engineering systems (engineering standards, configuration management, material review board, process control, tooling, facilities, software, etc.)
  • Demonstrated experience in generating technical solutions in the absence of complete customer requirements
  • Management of engineering scope as it pertains to budgeting and participation in EAC reviews
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills including demonstrated experience with high value customer presentations
  • Demonstrated team leadership skills - leader of significant technical projects or investigations and management of multiple program tasks to schedule and budget Experience with the proposal process
  • Knowledge and experience in System Engineering tools and disciplines

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:
https://www.northropgrumman.com/space
Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.
Northrop Grumman Total Rewards
Primary Level Salary Range: $152,900.00 - $229,300.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939