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Rocket Science Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

It's a testament to the commitment and dedication of our team of rocket scientists and support employees combined with the systems and processes we use to pull them together. As a ULA employee, you ...

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Rocket Science information

See Alabama salary details

$22.2K

$43.9K

$71.6K

How much do rocket science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket science in Alabama is $43,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,900.00 and $47,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do rocket scientists get paid?

Rocket scientists, often aerospace engineers or specialists in propulsion and spacecraft design, typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with advanced degrees and security clearances can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private aerospace companies.

How to get a job as a rocket scientist?

To become a rocket scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required, with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, research projects, or working with aerospace companies is valuable, along with developing skills in CAD software, propulsion systems, and physics. Professional certifications and a strong understanding of mathematics and engineering principles also enhance job prospects in this field.

What are some typical challenges faced by rocket scientists when working on launch projects, and how are these challenges addressed within a team?

Rocket scientists often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, complex system integration, and the need for precise coordination between various engineering disciplines. These challenges are typically addressed through rigorous project management, detailed simulation and testing, and close collaboration with specialists in propulsion, avionics, and materials science. Regular team meetings and cross-functional reviews help ensure that issues are identified early and solutions are developed collaboratively, fostering a supportive environment for innovation and problem-solving.

What is rocket science?

Rocket science is the field of engineering and physics that focuses on the design, development, testing, and operation of rockets and spacecraft. It involves disciplines such as propulsion, aerodynamics, materials science, structural analysis, and control systems. Rocket scientists work to overcome the significant technical challenges involved in sending vehicles and payloads into space, ensuring safety and efficiency. This field is crucial for space exploration, satellite deployment, and advancing our understanding of the universe.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rocket scientist?

To thrive as a Rocket Scientist, you need a deep understanding of physics, mathematics, and aerospace engineering, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree or advanced scientific education. Familiarity with simulation software, CAD tools, and industry-specific certifications like those from NASA or aerospace societies is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing, testing, and launching complex aerospace systems safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Rocket Science vs Aerospace Engineering?

AspectRocket ScienceAerospace Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Aerospace, or Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, space agencies, aerospace companiesDesign, testing, manufacturing in labs, factories, and research facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on designing and launching rockets and spacecraftBroader field including aircraft and spacecraft design

Rocket Science and Aerospace Engineering share overlapping skills and educational backgrounds, but Rocket Science specifically emphasizes the design and development of rockets and spacecraft. Aerospace Engineering covers a wider range of aerospace vehicles, including aircraft. Both roles are vital in the aerospace industry, with Rocket Science being a specialized subset of Aerospace Engineering.

What kind of jobs use rocket science?

Rocket science is primarily used in aerospace engineering roles such as spacecraft design, satellite development, and missile technology. These jobs often require knowledge of physics, propulsion systems, and advanced mathematics, and are typically found in government space agencies, private aerospace companies, and defense contractors.
What are popular job titles related to Rocket Science jobs in Alabama? For Rocket Science jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rocket Science jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Rocket Science jobs in Alabama are:
Infographic showing various Rocket Science job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,861 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Senior Scientist

Anduril Industries

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$128K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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 75,061 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
ABOUT THE JOB
Anduril - Rocket Motor Systems is seeking a Lead Scientist to join our organization. The Rocket Motor Systems business line designs, develops, and manufactures next-generation solid rocket motors for defense and space applications. The ideal candidate has extensive experience with numerous types of energetic materials and demonstrated expertise in one area of solid composite propellant manufacture and formulation. This role requires considerable knowledge of energetic materials chemistry, significant experience in rocket motor manufacturing, and demonstrated effectiveness as the principal investigator on internal research and development efforts.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Execute production rocket motor contracts as the program propellant chemist.
  • Act as the principal investigator on at least one internal research and development effort.
  • Provide technical guidance on explosives chemistry and manufacturing.
  • Maintain databases and analyze technical data to ensure specification and regulatory compliance.
  • Support implementation of innovative techniques and technologies.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field plus two years of experience; or a master's degree plus four years of experience; or a bachelor's degree plus six years of experience.
  • Minimum of two years of relevant experience within the aerospace/defense industry, preferably in solid rocket motor production.
  • Demonstrated expertise in some area of rocket motor manufacture, e.g., composite propellants, energetic materials, case/nozzle/insulation design, solid rocket motor manufacturing.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to operate in a fast-paced, challenging environment.
  • Ability to obtain and hold a U.S. Secret Security Clearance..
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemistry with a concentration in energetic materials, polymer chemistry, or reactive materials.
  • Minimum of three years of relevant experience within the aerospace/defense industry, preferably in solid rocket motor production.
  • Demonstrated experience formulating propellants at laboratory or production size.
  • Active DOD Secret or Top-Secret security clearance.
  • At least one publication or presentation within the defense industry in a relevant journal or at a relevant conference.

US Salary Range
$128,000-$171,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

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

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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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