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Rocket Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NJ · On-site

$196 - $261/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rocket places tremendous value on our people and fosters a collaborative environment where bold ... Bring an entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and scientific curiosity to data mining, insight ...

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Rocket Scientist information

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How much do rocket scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for rocket scientist in the United States is $41.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $55.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rocket scientist?

Rocket scientists are engineers or physicists who specialize in the design, construction, and testing of rockets and spacecraft. They work on developing propulsion systems, guidance mechanisms, and the overall structure of vehicles intended for space travel or missile technology. These professionals often work for government agencies like NASA, private aerospace companies, or defense organizations. Their work requires strong backgrounds in physics, mathematics, and engineering, and often involves solving complex technical challenges to ensure safe and efficient space missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rocket scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rocket Scientist, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, mathematics, and typically at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or SolidWorks), programming languages, and industry standards like NASA or ESA protocols is essential. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for tackling complex engineering challenges. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and launch of spacecraft and related technologies.

What are some common challenges rocket scientists face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Rocket Scientists frequently collaborate with experts in fields such as materials science, software engineering, and avionics. One common challenge is aligning the objectives and timelines of different specialties, as each team may have unique technical constraints and priorities. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to ensure all components integrate seamlessly into the final rocket design. Navigating these interdisciplinary dynamics can be demanding, but it also provides valuable learning experiences and fosters innovation.

What is the difference between Rocket Scientist vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectRocket ScientistAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a master's or Ph.D. in physics, aerospace engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in aerospace or mechanical engineering, often with specialized training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, space agencies, or private space companiesDesign, develop, and test aircraft and spacecraft in labs, manufacturing, or testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in space research, propulsion systems, and scientific explorationIn aviation, spacecraft design, and related aerospace sectors

Rocket Scientists focus on research and development of propulsion and space systems, often working in scientific and research settings. Aerospace Engineers design and build aircraft and spacecraft, applying engineering principles to create practical solutions. While both roles require strong technical backgrounds, Rocket Scientists tend to be more research-oriented, whereas Aerospace Engineers focus on design and manufacturing.

How do you become a rocket scientist?

To become a rocket scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctorate for advanced roles. Developing strong skills in physics, mathematics, computer programming, and experience with design software like CAD are essential, along with internships or research experience in aerospace projects.

How much do rocket scientists get paid?

Rocket scientists, or aerospace engineers working in the field, typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $160,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in propulsion, aerodynamics, and systems engineering can lead to higher compensation, especially in government or private aerospace companies.
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What cities are hiring for Rocket Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Rocket Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Rocket Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rocket Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Rocket Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,999 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Senior Director, Process Development & MS&T

Rocket Pharmaceuticals

Cranbury, NJ

$220K - $293K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Overview

Create a future where DNA is no longer destiny. Join Rocket Pharma.

Rocket Pharma is a fully integrated, late-stage biotechnology company advancing gene therapies with curative potential for patients with rare and life-threatening diseases. We are a team of creative, compassionate, and driven individuals united by a profound mission of seeking gene therapy cures. Rocket places tremendous value on our people and fosters a collaborative environment where bold ideas thrive and every team member makes a meaningful impact. Our core values guide everything we do: we trust one another, show generosity toward patients, embrace curiosity, and strive to elevate science. Team members receive a competitive total rewards package, including equity participation, 401(k) matching, and excellent health benefits.

Position Summary

The CMC group at Rocket Pharma is seeking an experienced Senior Director of Process Development (PD) and Manufacturing Science and Technology (MS&T) to join our Technical Development team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience and knowledge in process development and manufacturing technical support with a passion for tackling new challenges in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. This role will involve overseeing new and existing platform process development activities to support early- and late-stage pipeline products, as well as providing leadership to a team of scientists.

We are looking for someone who is deeply curious about science and gene therapy and is motivated to translate innovative research into impactful therapies.

Responsibilities
  • Serve as Head of Process Development (Upstream, Downstream) and Manufacturing Science and Technology to represent the functional area on cross-functional and cross-divisional teams working with Analytical, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality and Regulatory functions.
  • Strategically position PD/MS&T to execute on both supporting current Manufacturing campaigns and establishing/optimizing new platforms
  • Lead scale-up and scale-down model establishment and qualification activities to enable process characterization and manufacturing investigations.
  • Author and review regulatory and process development documentation.
  • Provide hands-on leadership and guidance to scientific staff.
  • Foster the development, coaching, and mentoring of a growing team of scientists.
Qualifications
  • PhD in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, bioprocessing, bioengineering, biochemistry, biological sciences, or relevant field of study with 10 years of experience in a biotech/biopharmaceutical industrial setting, M.S. with 12 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience or BS with 15 years of leadership experience.
  • Viral vector process development experience required, hands-on experience with AAV processing preferred
  • Proven success in developing/optimizing processes while leading end-to-end PD/MS&T functional areas
  • Direct experience with process tech transfer, viral clearance, comparability, control strategies, process characterization and process validations/PPQ
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of conveying complex technical information in a clear, thorough, and influential manner is required.
  • Experience with statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) is required.
  • Eager to work with highly skilled and dynamic teams in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, and technical environment.
  • Motivated to drive functional initiatives to evaluate novel technologies and develop templates, platform, and technical standards to support organization growth.
  • Excellent MS Office skills with a specific focus on word, excel and power point applications to author technical reports and presentations.
Compensation

The expected salary range for this position is $220,000 to $293,000. 

At Rocket, our compensation philosophy and ranges are built upon data and insights collected from validated world-class providers. We are committed to compensating employees equitably based on several factors, including responsibilities and level of the position, depth and types of the employee's experience, location of the position and availability of similar talent in a competitive market.

For U.S.-based candidates, this is an at-will position, and Rocket reserves the right to adjust the range at hire or during the year due to market shifts.

In addition to base salary, Rocket offers a competitive total rewards package that may include bonuses (short-term incentives), medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401(k) with company match and generous vesting, paid vacation and holidays, global shutdown days between Christmas and New Year's, and a variety of wellness resources and employee support programs. Also, certain positions are eligible for added forms of compensation, such equity awards (long-term incentives).

EEO Statement

A diverse workforce fosters innovation and strengthens Rocket's business. We ensure equal opportunity without discrimination or harassment in the workplace on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, citizenship, status as a protected veteran, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME