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Rocket Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior DevOps Engineer I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and spacecraft design. The Senior DevOps Engineer I will support the U.S. Space Development Agency's Proliferated ...

Senior DevOps Engineer I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and spacecraft design. As a Senior DevOps Engineer I, you will automate CI/CD pipelines and deploy applications for ...

Senior DevOps Engineer I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and advanced spacecraft design. The Senior DevOps Engineer I will support the Optical Systems division by automating CI ...

Senior Manager, DevOps Engineering

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services and spacecraft design. The Senior Manager, DevOps Engineering will manage a team of software development operations ...

Senior Manager, DevOps Engineering

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company focused on responsive launch services and spacecraft design. As a Senior Manager in DevOps Engineering, you will lead a team responsible for deploying ...

Manufacturing Engineer (Tool Design Engineer) Job ID: 37372 Job Location: Culpeper, VA Job Schedule ... This position will focus on component and system tooling design for solid rocket propulsion systems ...

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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 Jun 12, 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 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 job categories do people searching Rocket Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Rocket Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Avionics Test and Launch Engineer II / Senior

Avionics Test and Launch Engineer II / Senior

Rocket Lab

Wallops Island, VA

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

AVIONICS TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II / SENIOR

This role is part of the Test and Launch Engineering team at Rocket Lab which is the division responsible for testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicle, starting with stack testing through pre-launch processing, launch operations, and on-orbit operations. Integrated Operations is also responsible for configuration, checkout, and operation of related facilities, equipment, and infrastructure. 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

Develop, integrate, and test avionics and electrical systems for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles 
Oversee the configuration and checkout of avionics systems 
Lead and manage testing projects for avionics and electrical systems 
Mentor and train other operators within the Integrated Operations team on avionics and electrical systems 
Develop Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) related to ground- and vehicle- electrical hardware 
Author, review and carry out operations procedures 
NOTE: This position can be hired as a Level II Engineer or a Senior Engineer I level.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LEVEL II ENGINEER:

Bachelor Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, mechanical, electrical or  mechatronic engineering) 
2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, in the focus of electrical/software engineering 
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR ENGINEER I:

Bachelor Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, mechanical, electrical or  mechatronic engineering) 
5+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, in the focus of electrical/software engineering 
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations 
Experience with Java, Python, or other object-oriented programming language 
Software development skills with solid understanding and experience working with web-based tools such as HTML and XML 
Good understanding of networking required with knowledge and experience in TCP/IP, UDP, multicast protocols, and packet switching and routing 
Knowledge of and/or experience with electrical systems  
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.    
Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.   
Must be physically able to commute to buildings  
Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise. 

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type 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. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

PandoLogic. Keywords: Avionics Engineer, Location: Wallops Island, VA - 23337