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Rocket Lab

Stage Fluids Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and ... STAGE FLUIDS ENGINEER II A Stage Fluids Engineer II owns the design, build, and test of their fluid ...

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$39K

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How much do rocket engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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 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.
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Rocket Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Engineer, Air Vehicles (Solid Rocket Motor Integration)

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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 76,515 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Integration team is responsible for designing and integrating advanced hardware for Group 5 air vehicles and across missile platforms. Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Engineers own the full development lifecycle, from concept generation, to integration and flight test, ensuring high-performance, resilient, and scalable mechanical systems that meet the demands of complex, contested environments.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Serve as a lead or key contributor in the selection, architecting, and integration of Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs), ignition systems, Thrust Vector Control (TVC) systems, and associated ordnance on missile platforms and air vehicles.
  • Design, fabricate, and test prototype components, structural interfaces, and thrust vectoring or ignition control systems.
  • Plan, instrument, and execute ground static fire, environmental, and integration tests of solid rocket propulsion systems.
  • Coordinate with SRM vendors, develop strategic partnerships, and manage development projects.
  • Lead or support critical hardware demonstrations with customers as needed.
  • Critical member of team supporting CAD design for structural integration, motor cases, nozzles, blast tubes, and aerodynamic / structural interfaces.
  • Travel to vendor sites, test sites and test ranges as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering.
  • 8+ years of propulsion engineering experience on tactical missiles, launch vehicles, or air vehicles.
  • Experience with Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs) for aerospace or defense applications.
  • Strong understanding of solid rocket motor ballistics, propellant chemistry, and familiarity with grain design.
  • Proven experience designing complex mechanical parts, structural interfaces, or rocket motor components (using 3D CAD).
  • Exposure to static fire testing, environmental testing, or qualification of rocket motors.
  • Familiar with manufacturing methods (machining, composites / filament winding, high-temperature materials, sheet metal, 3D printing, etc.).
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in NX / Teamcenter, Python, MATLAB.
  • Hands-on experience with solid rocket motor testing, including static fire test practices, instrumentation, and data processing.
  • Previous work experience at a Solid Rocket Motor OEM or supplier, with a deep understanding of propellant formulation, grain geometries, and nozzle performance trade-offs.
  • Knowledge and experience working with Thrust Vector Control (TVC) systems, Ignition Safety Devices (ISD / ESAD), ordnance systems, telemetry / flight termination systems, burn rate enhancers (BRE).
  • Experience tailoring and conducting sensitive munition testing.
  • Experience procuring parts and working in a machine shop. Working knowledge of machine safety and shop safety protocols.
  • Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

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

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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