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Rocket Science Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

TerraFirma

Mission Control Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Our Story & Mission At SpaceX, we were part of the teams that built the largest rocket in human ... S. in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field * 2+ years of ...

TerraFirma

Robotics Engineer - Perception

Austin, TX · On-site

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

SpaceX

Factory Software Engineer (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX · On-site

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

SpaceX

Thermal Engineer (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX · On-site

THERMAL ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX, we are applying our expertise in building rockets and ... Master's degree in relevant engineering discipline * 1+ years of experience using scientific ...

SpaceX

Sr. Operations Engineer (Starlink Growth)

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Required : • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science ... SpaceX develops and operates rockets, satellite networks, and AI infrastructure including launch ...

SpaceX

Sr. Operations Engineer (Starlink Growth)

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Starlink is leveraging SpaceX's experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy the world ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, or STEM ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRocket Science JobsRocket Science Jobs in Austin, TX

Rocket Science information

See Austin, TX salary details

$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do rocket science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 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.

Full Stack Software Engineer (Application Software)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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

Job Summary:
SpaceX is actively developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. The Full Stack Software Engineer will create mission critical applications that accelerate launch vehicle production and support the growth of Starlink as a worldwide Internet service.
Responsibilities:
• Develop highly reliable software solutions that are used across SpaceX
• Create new applications that improve how SpaceX operates
• Build prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
• Own all aspects of software engineering and product development
• Deep dive into your users’ problems to find and create efficient solutions
• Bring your voice to the table in team collaborations on architecture, design, and code reviews
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience building software in lieu of a degree
• Experience in full stack development
• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as 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.
Preferred:
• Programming experience in Python, C#.NET, Go, Scala, Java, or similar object-oriented language
• 1+ years of rigorous experience building single page web applications
• Experience with version control, continuous integration, and continuous delivery concepts
• Expertise in designing software systems
• Deep understanding of testing, continuous integration, build, deployment & monitoring
• Expertise in profiling and improving application performance
• Experience with build systems (Make, Bazel/Pants/Buck, Gradle) and package management tools (pip, npm)
• Experience with UNIX-like operating systems and tools like Terraform, Ansible, Puppet for managing them
• Experience working with in-stream data processing using Apache Kafka, RabbitMQ, ActiveMQ, or similar technologies
• Production experience with Docker and Kubernetes
• Front-end experience in Angular, React, or similar JavaScript framework
• Database experience with PostgreSQL, SQL Server, or similar database technologies
Company:
SpaceX develops and operates rockets, satellite networks, and AI infrastructure including launch, connectivity, and cloud services. Founded in 2002, the company is headquartered in Hawthorne, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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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