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Rocket Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Specialist, Rocket Motor Quality Engineer Job Code: 41845 Job Location: Orange, VA Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week We are seeking a Rocket Motor Quality ...

DevOps Engineer II/ Senior

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$136K - $175K/yr

S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to ... Engineer II/ Senior based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, you will ...

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Rocket Engineer information

See salary details

$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 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.

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 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.

More about Rocket Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Rocket Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Rocket Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Rocket Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Rocket Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rocket Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer, Rocket Motor Systems

Anduril Industries

Mchenry, MS

$83K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


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 75,237 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

Anduril's Rocket Motor Systems team is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to join our team. The Rocket Motor Systems team is designing and commissioning automated equipment for high rate production of Solid Rocket Motors at our plant in McHenry, MS. In this role, you will design, commission, and upgrade control systems for Solid Rocket Motor production equipment.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Design, commission, and upgrade control systems for Solid Rocket Motor production equipment
  • Architect, write, and debug Siemens PLC code with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable for high-volume manufacturing applications
  • Generate and enforce internal standards for control systems architectures, regulatory compliance, and safety buyoffs
  • Integrate internal and external FactoryOS software into automation equipment and production lines
  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for automation failures, ensuring rapid resolution and long-term reliability
  • Install, configure, and tune servo drives / VFDs
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot equipment issues, reduce downtime, and drive continuous improvement initiatives
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering
  • 8+ years of experience in controls and automation in a production environment
  • Strong in Siemens PLC programming (Ladder and Structured Text)
  • Proficient in servo drive and VFD configuration, PID tuning, STO/SS, etc.
  • Strong knowledge of ethernet based communication protocols (ProfiNET, ProfiSAFE, Ethernet IP.)
  • Proficient with electrical component selection and a solid foundation of wire sizing, circuit protection, and heat management in control cabinets.
  • Experience integrating with SCADA and OT Networking
  • Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities
  • Experience with performing Risk Assessments and Controls Safety Design
  • Proficient with pneumatic concepts and design
  • Familiar with NFPA70e electrical safety practices
  • Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export controlled information or facilities
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 10+ years of experience in controls and automation in a production environment
  • Experience working in an energetics facility
  • Experience with control panel layout, electrical component selection, and cable routing
  • Electrical troubleshooting up to 600VAC
  • TUV FS Engineer certification (Functional Safety of Machinery)

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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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


Anduril Industries logo

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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