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Rocket Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rocket Lab Corporation

Sr. FPGA Engineer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$133K - $171K/yr

SPACE SYSTEMS Rocket Lab's Space Systems division builds complete spacecraft, precision payloads to ... SENIOR FIRMWARE ENGINEER II Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

Sr. FPGA Engineer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$133K - $171K/yr

SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space ... SENIOR FPGA ENGINEER II Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain ...

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Rocket Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$100.9K

$136.3K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rocket engineer?

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 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.

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.

How do I become a rocket engineer?

To become a rocket engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or doctorate. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, propulsion systems, and thermodynamics, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your qualifications. Working in aerospace companies or research labs provides practical experience in rocket design, testing, and manufacturing.

What do rocket engineers do?

Rocket engineers design, develop, and test spacecraft and propulsion systems used in space exploration and satellite deployment. They work with engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and often require knowledge of aerodynamics, materials science, and safety standards. Their work involves analyzing performance data, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Rocket Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Rocket Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

Rocket Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,879 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

IT Network Engineer II - Launch

Rocket Lab Corporation

Wallops Island, VA • On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

IT 

Rocket Lab's IT team is responsible for how our global teams access information and run operations across our computer systems, networks, and devices. Our hardworking IT team is a group of flexible problem-solvers working in a fast-paced environment but who also thrive under the challenge of supporting all of our proprietary systems and people, from finance to launch operations.

IT NETWORK ENGINEER II – LAUNCH

Located onsite at our Wallops, VA East Coast Launch Facility, the IT Network Engineer II will deliver day-to-day IT support and advanced technical expertise to Rocket Lab engineers while contributing to infrastructure implementations and projects across the organization. Join our IT team in maintaining the global IT infrastructure that empowers mission success through highly reliable and available systems.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Resolve complex technical issues across network infrastructure, systems, and integrations requiring escalated troubleshooting and analysis
  • Deliver subject matter expertise and technical guidance to ensure optimal performance and availability of critical IT systems
  • Drive upgrade and maintenance initiatives with a focus on continuous improvement, reliability, and security
  • Implement and champion IT infrastructure standards for deployment and management across Space Systems environments
  • Participate in an on-call rotation supporting 24/7/365 Launch Mission Operations
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, deploy, and optimize infrastructure solutions that meet organizational needs
  • Implement and champion IT infrastructure standards for the deployment and management of Launch environments to ensure:
    • Compliance with Rocket Lab Policies
    • Compliance with cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures
    • Simplified and consistent environment management practises
    • Automated build and maintenance processes
    • Improvements to increase reliability of systems
    • System High Availability and Disaster Recovery
    • Clear and concise reporting on usage, uptime, support levels, etc.
    • Comprehensive documentation of environments and support
    • Efficient cost control
  • Work with a team of world class IT, engineering, and business professionals.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 2+ years of experience in a network focused technology role and a bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience (6+ Years of work experience)
  • Hands-on experience with the deployment of networking hardware (routers, switches, firewalls, etc..)
  • Understanding of networking concepts including network security, network architecture design, technical standards and deliverables, troubleshooting tools
  • In-depth knowledge of at least one of:
    • Fortinet Firewalls and Juniper/Cisco Switches
    • Enterprise Network architecture or administration
    • Multicasting and Switching (VLAN) overlays
    • Network Monitoring tools and Packet capture practices
    • Linux/Windows system administration
  • US citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Specialist qualifications in area of expertise: Linux, CCNA, AWS, Microsoft, Azure, etc.
  • Experience with mass deployment of devices or IaC
  • Experience with Puppet, Ansible, or other automation frameworks
  • Experience with Python, Shell, Bash, and/or other languages
  • Experience with Promethius, Grafana, InfluxDB
  • Advanced problem solving and analytical skills – able to see the big picture, make connections and appropriate decisions.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia's pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base Pay Range (VA Only)
$75,200—$94,000 USD

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This 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.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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