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Rocket Science Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

TerraFirma

Robotics Engineer - Embedded Software

Austin, TX · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Our Story & Mission At SpaceX, we were part of the teams that built the largest rocket in human ... S. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field ...

SpaceX

Application Software Engineer

Bastrop, TX · On-site

Required : • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline ... SpaceX develops and operates rockets, satellite networks, and AI infrastructure including launch ...

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Rocket Science information

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$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do rocket science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket science in Austin, TX is $47,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,500.00 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 are popular job titles related to Rocket Science jobs in Austin, TX?

For Rocket Science jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rocket Science jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Rocket Science jobs in Austin, TX are:

Rocket Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket Science job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,965 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Sr. Software Engineer (Data Science/Data Engineering)

Bastrop, TX • On-site

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about SpaceXexternal

$113K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

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 withdata analysis libraries such as Python Pandas
  • Experience with machine learning libraries like SciPi 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
  • Goodunderstanding of machine learning algorithms, linear algebra, calculus, probability, statistics, and optimization methods. 
  • Good understanding of version control, testing, continuous integration, build, deployment and monitoring
  • Some front-end experience in Angular, React, or similar JavaScript framework

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • You may be asked to work extended hours/weekends dependent on launch cadence
  • Must be willing to travel when needed
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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

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