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Rocket Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Vehicle Integration Engineer

Wattsville, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services ... SENIOR VEHICLE INTEGRATION ENGINEER The Neutron Vehicle Integration Engineer is responsible for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Rocket Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$100.9K

$136.3K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket engineer in Virginia is $100,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $115,500.00 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 Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,879 per year, or $48.5 per hour.
Junior Mechanical Engineer (NASA Sounding Rocket Program)

Junior Mechanical Engineer (NASA Sounding Rocket Program)

Peraton

Wallops Island, VA

$51K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 213 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

NASA's Sounding Rocket Operations Contract (NSROC) is a sub-orbital space flight program located at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility (WFF), a part of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). NSROC provides suborbital launch vehicles, payload development and field operations support to NASA's Science Mission Directorate. The program enables the collection of Earth, Heliophysics and Astrophysics science.

The Mechanical Engineer will be a team member using principles of mechanical engineering; develop, design, analyze, test, and document sounding rocket payload systems, sub-systems, and GSE systems in support of the NASA Sounding Rocket Operations Contract (NSROC).

Responsibilities of the position:

  • Research, develop, design, and analyze sounding rocket mechanical structures, components, and equipment applying principles and techniques of mechanical engineering to fulfill mission requirements. 
  • Fulfill mission duties and requirements with teams of fellow engineers from Electrical, GNC, Flight Performance, LV Engineers under direction System Engineers and Mission Managers. 
  • Work with SolidWorks and SolidWorks Simulation for design and analysis efforts. 
  • Manage Mass Properties and Gravimetrics of concepts, designs, and actual measurements of flight hardware. 
  • Create Design and Manufacturing Documentation with SolidWorks
  • Submit documentation to Production and provide oversight of fabrication in NSROC Machine Shop and provide assembly drawings and procedures to Mechanical Technicians staff. 
  • Direct and coordinate activities involved in assembly, operation, problem resolution, and repair of sounding rocket mechanical structures and systems; and create required processes and procedures. 
  • Coordinate and participate in environmental testing of sounding rocket components, subassemblies, and full payloads. To include generating test plans and loads, oversight and setup of testing, performing tests, validation of new designs, and interpreting results.
  • Create documentation for design and testing, and present to a panel of peers and customers for review. 
  • Serve as lead mechanical engineer for sounding rocket missions and other program or project efforts.
  • Brief customers on technical development projects and negotiate design modification if needed. May be responsible for cost and schedule requirements. 
  • Provide support for field operations when needed, including payload, ground, and launcher systems support 
  • Balance workload of numerous simultaneous projects & missions at different levels of development, (design, fabrication, testing, etc) 
  • Perform Mechanical engineering support assignments such as material management and procurement, peer review, and development projects 
  • Management of mechanical engineering assignments, and the development of new products and engineering specifications for applicable projects. 
  • Travel may occasionally be 2-4 weeks per year.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Math, or Physics. (Mechanical or Aerospace engineering preferred)
  • Zero to two years of experience.
  • Working knowledge of SolidWorks and SolidWorks Simulation or similar design and analysis tools. 
  • Must be a US Citizen and ability to obtain a NASA PIV badge
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$51,000 - $82,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017