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Rocket Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Rocket Money

Senior Data Platform Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$119K - $162K/yr

Rocket Money is dedicated to improving the financial prosperity of millions by providing valuable financial services. They are seeking a Senior Data Platform Engineer to build and maintain the ...

Rocket Lab

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 ...

Rocket Lab

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 ...

Rocket Lab

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 ...

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All JobsRocket Engineer JobsRocket Engineer Jobs in Washington

Rocket Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$44.2K

$115.2K

$155.7K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket engineer in Washington is $115,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $131,900.00 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 Washington? For Rocket Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rocket Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Rocket Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Rocket Engineer jobs near you
Rocket Propulsion Engineer

Rocket Propulsion Engineer

Advanced Technology and Research Corporation

Indian Head, MD • On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Rocket Propulsion Engineer
Location: Indian Head, MD              Department: Engineering Services
Type: Full-Time Min. Experience: Mid-Level Salary Range: $100,000 to $115,000 USD per year
Advanced Technology & Research Corporation (www.atrcorp.com) is seeking to fill the following full-time permanent position. Based in Maryland and incorporated in 1973, ATR is an equal-opportunity engineering company with a solid reputation in various engineering disciplines for the government and Fortune 500 commercial customers.
Salary for the position is competitive according to qualifications. ATR offers an attractive comprehensive benefits package, including Medical/Dental insurances, free basic life/ADD, and long-term and short-term disability insurances, 401(k) plan, educational assistance program, and 5 weeks of paid leave per year for minimum seniority.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.
Qualified persons should apply at:
https://advancedtechnologyandresearchcorporation.applytojob.com/apply
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The successful applicant will join ATR's Engineering Services Division, working as an mid level Engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, Indian Head, MD. You will have an opportunity to work on world-class military programs that support the US Navy's Warfare technology as part of the Surface Systems Branch.  The applicant shall work on-site with other engineers and provide support for rocket motor and energetic component In-Service and production engineering. Including fleet failure investigations, energetic components and explosive test and analysis, failure investigations, and configuration management of technical data.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
  • BS degree in Mechanical engineering
  • 3+ years of engineering experience
  • Experience with design, analysis, fundamentals of rocket motor propulsion is preferred
  • Job experience with DoD is a plus
SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIREMENTS:
  • Analytical skills with respect to mechanical drawings, schematics, and diagrams
  • Possess strong MS Office skills to include, MS Word, MS Excel, and MS Project
  • Experience with MATLAB (or similar) and CAD (Creo or SolidWorks) is preferred
  • Hands-on experience with testing ordnance and explosives is preferred
  • Experience with working in teams and individually
  • Experience with tracking and managing projects
  • Experience handling multiple assignments and work in a dynamic environment
  • Possess excellent verbal/written communications skills and attention to detail
  • Experience with analysis report writing and weekly report writing
  • Some travel required

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Candidate must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance or favorable adjudication of a national security background investigation. Current successful background investigation completion is a plus.

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