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Rocket Science Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Senior RF Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Alternatively, Radar Systems or Data Science experience, with a strong quantitative and mechanical measurements foundation * 5+ years of experience inRF telemetry in rocket, missile or space ...

Senior RF Systems Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Alternatively, Radar Systems or Data Science experience, with a strong quantitative and mechanical measurements foundation * 5+ years of experience in RF telemetry in rocket, missile or space ...

Senior RF Systems Engineer

Houston, TX

$99K - $136K/yr

Alternatively, Radar Systems or Data Science experience, with a strong quantitative and mechanical measurements foundation * 5+ years of experience in RF telemetry in rocket, missile or space ...

Senior RF Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Alternatively, Radar Systems or Data Science experience, with a strong quantitative and mechanical measurements foundation * 5+ years of experience in RF telemetry in rocket, missile or space ...

Senior RF Systems Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

Alternatively, Radar Systems or Data Science experience, with a strong quantitative and mechanical measurements foundation * 5+ years of experience in RF telemetry in rocket, missile or space ...

SOFTWARE ENGINEER We are looking for a software engineer who will work at the Texas Rocket ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or other science discipline * 1+ years of ...

Software Engineer

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

SOFTWARE ENGINEER We are looking for a software engineer who will work at the Texas Rocket ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or other science discipline * 1+ years of ...

New

SOFTWARE ENGINEER We are looking for a software engineer who will work at the Texas Rocket ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or other science discipline * 1+ years of ...

Showing results 41-60

Rocket Science information

See Texas salary details

$22.8K

$45.1K

$73.6K

How much do rocket science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket science in Texas is $45,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,900.00 and $48,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 skills in systems engineering or project management can earn higher salaries, especially in government agencies 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 are also important for securing a job in this field.

What degree is needed to be a rocket scientist?

Rocket scientists typically hold at least a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Many positions require a master's degree or Ph.D. for advanced research and development roles, along with strong skills in mathematics, physics, and computer-aided design (CAD).

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 found in government space agencies, private aerospace companies, and defense contractors.

What job categories do people searching Rocket Science jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Rocket Science jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Rocket Science jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Rocket Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Rocket Science job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,084 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Sr. Software Engineer (Data Science/Data Engineering)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

Bastrop, TX • On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Bastrop, TX

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER (DATA SCIENCE/DATA ENGINEERING)

The application software team is the central nervous system of SpaceX – we create mission critical applications that are used throughout SpaceX to accelerate launch vehicle production and flights as well as systems that allow Starlink to grow into a worldwide fast, reliable internet service. We are looking for engineers who treat fellow teammates with fairness, respect, and support.

Our team is creating systems to analyze data from events like rocket launches or factory production workloads to always‑on telemetry from the Starlink satellite constellation with point‑in‑time analysis, historical analysis and machine learning. We work closely with engineers throughout the company to create and update our systems with respect to crewed launches, Starship flights, changes to the Starlink network and much more.

Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving problems and want to make an impact on a super inspiring mission. You will have full ownership of challenging problems, working with a team of enthusiastic engineers to design and produce solutions that enable SpaceX to move towards our goals at a rapid pace. The success of the missions at SpaceX depends on the software that you and your team produce.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop highly reliable and scalable data analysis libraries, systems, and data pipelines, to empower engineers across SpaceX
  • Create new applications that improve how the business at SpaceX operates
  • Collaborate with peers on architecture, design, and code reviews
  • Build prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Own all aspects of software engineering and product development
  • Deep dive into engineering problems and involve in corporation/coordination with domain experts
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline and 5+ years of professional experience in software development; OR 7+ years of professional experience building software in lieu of a degree
  • 3+ years of professional experience in full‑stack development
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • 3+ years of professional experience in data engineering or data science
  • 2+ years of hands‑on experience applying ML techniques (ex: CNNs, RNNs) to datasets
  • Programming experience in Python, C#, or similar languages
  • Experience working with data analysis libraries such as Python Pandas
  • Experience with machine learning libraries like SciPy and PyTorch
  • Experience with data exploration tools like Grafana, Jupyter Notebooks, Metabase, PowerBI or similar
  • Experience with relational databases such as PostgreSQL
  • Experience applying computer vision libraries such as OpenCV and Ultralytics to real‑world problems
  • Good understanding of machine learning algorithms, linear algebra, calculus, probability, statistics, and optimization methods.
  • Good understanding of version control, testing, continuous integration, build, deployment and monitoring
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • You may be asked to work extended hours/weekends dependent on launch cadence
  • Must be willing to travel when needed
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affiantive Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US