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Rocket Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 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.
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Rocket Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer, Rocket Motor Systems

Mechanical Engineer, Rocket Motor Systems

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA

Other

Posted yesterday

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 72,416 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Anduril Rocket Motor Systems (RMS) team is on a mission to build next generation solid rocket motors for a safer, more connected world. To achieve our vision of becoming a large-volume provider of tactical rocket motors, we will develop differentiated products and services that maximize our customers' capabilities, and we will establish and maintain a reputation of Quality and Reliability.

ABOUT THE JOB

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will conduct mechanical design and analysis of solid rocket motor components, including motor cases, nozzles, propellant grains, igniters, and/or ignition safety components. The right person for this role has a strong command of mechanical design and stress and thermal analysis principles as well as a solid handle on the usage of tools common in industry. If you are someone who is hardware-focused and detail-oriented then this role is for you.
WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Perform CAD design activities of mechanical components.
  • Perform finite element analysis of structural and thermal systems.
  • Generate, review, and release product definition (i.e. engineering drawings).
  • Create reports and presentations documenting analysis and other supporting work.
  • Present to peers and customers in design reviews.
  • Support prototyping, manufacturing, and test operations onsite at our manufacturing facilities and suppliers' facilities.
  • Own the development of critical subsystems from cradle to grave.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5+ years' experience performing mechanical design and analysis.
  • A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or similar.
  • Prior experience operating CAD software and/or FEA software.
  • A solid understanding of hardware manufacturability and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Ability to travel to other Anduril sites, customer sites, or supplier sites as business demand dictates. Anticipated 10-25% travel.
  • Ability to obtain and hold a Secret Security Clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Exhibits strong initiative and ownership of tasks.
  • Experience with NX CAD software and/or Abaqus FEA software.
  • Certification in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing.
  • Expertise in engineering tool development in Microsoft Excel, MATLAB, and/or Python.
  • Experience with propulsion systems.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

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Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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