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Rocket Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fluid System Design Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

... testing, and maintenance of Talon-A hypersonic aircraft rocket propulsion systems. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience. This position will ...

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Rocket Testing information

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$10

$38

$62

How much do rocket testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rocket testing in the United States is $38.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in rocket testing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in rocket testing often encounter challenges such as strict safety protocols, tight project deadlines, and the need for precise data analysis. Working in a multidisciplinary team, they must coordinate closely with engineers, technicians, and quality assurance specialists to ensure each test runs smoothly and safely. Adapting quickly to unexpected results or test anomalies is crucial, and effective communication is key when troubleshooting issues. Continuous training and adherence to established procedures help mitigate risks and foster a culture of safety and innovation within the testing environment.

What is rocket testing?

Rocket testing is the process of evaluating rocket engines, components, or entire launch vehicles under controlled conditions to ensure they perform safely and reliably. This includes static fire tests, where engines are fired while the rocket remains secured, as well as tests of individual parts like fuel pumps or control systems. Data collected during these tests helps engineers identify potential flaws, improve designs, and verify that rockets meet required safety and performance standards before actual launches.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rocket Testing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rocket Testing Engineer, a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, experience with propulsion systems, and relevant technical degrees are crucial. Familiarity with data acquisition tools, test stand control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA or specific aerospace standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help individuals excel in this high-stakes environment. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safe, accurate, and efficient testing of rocket systems, minimizing risks and supporting mission success.

What is the difference between Rocket Testing vs Rocket Propulsion Technician?

AspectRocket TestingRocket Propulsion Technician
CredentialsEngineering degrees, certifications in testing proceduresTechnical certifications, experience with propulsion systems
Work EnvironmentTesting facilities, labs, and test rangesManufacturing plants, maintenance facilities, test sites
Industry UsageDesign validation, safety testing, performance analysisAssembly, maintenance, and repair of propulsion systems

Rocket Testing focuses on evaluating rocket systems through controlled tests to ensure safety and performance, often involving data analysis and validation. Rocket Propulsion Technicians handle the assembly, maintenance, and repair of propulsion components, ensuring they operate correctly. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, Rocket Testing emphasizes testing procedures and data analysis, whereas Rocket Propulsion Technicians focus on hands-on maintenance and system upkeep.

What cities are hiring for Rocket Testing jobs? Cities with the most Rocket Testing job openings:
What job categories do people searching Rocket Testing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rocket Testing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Rocket Testing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% As Needed, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,791 per year, or $38.4 per hour.
Rocket Lab - Production Operator & Equipment Maintenance/Facilities Technician Hiring Event

Rocket Lab - Production Operator & Equipment Maintenance/Facilities Technician Hiring Event

Rocket Lab Corporation

Rio Rancho, NM

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

ROCKET LAB – ALBUQUERQUE HIRING EVENT

CALLING ALL PRODUCTION OPERATORS, EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE & FACILITIES TECHNICIANS!

Rocket Lab is hiring for various hands-on Production Operator roles for our rapidly growing site in Albuquerque, New Mexico! We're hosting an exclusive hiring event on Wednesday June 10th and June 11th, 2026. This is a unique chance to meet the team and hear about the exciting opportunities available. Come meet face to face with a leader at Rocket Lab, snag some Rocket Lab swag, and learn more about the vision for our Albuquerque site and how you can leave your footprint in history! During this event, you will have expedited consideration where you'll be able to complete a skills assessment so managers can quickly determine next steps in your candidacy.

ROCKET LAB IN ALBUQUERQUE

Rocket Lab's vertically integrated space solar solutions combine high-efficiency and radiation-hardened solar cells with modular and customizable solar panel arrays to power spacecraft for any orbital, lunar, and interplanetary mission. Backed by over 25 years of flight heritage, Rocket Lab is a trusted partner in satellite power systems, delivering reliable power from low Earth orbit to deep space. And it all begins at our production facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico!

AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES

We're hiring for the following positions at all levels:

  • Manufacturing Machine Operators for a variety of Production departments - Solar Panels, Composites Fab, Cell Fab, etc.
  • Equipment Maintenance and Facilities Technicians

PRODUCTION OPERATOR DUTIES INCLUDE:

  • Perform semiconductor device production functions.
  • Perform specific process steps in assembly and testing.
  • Set up and prepare workstations/assembly fixtures.
  • Read and comprehend basic drawings and schematics.
  • Identify failure discrepancies (visual/written descriptions).
  • Use microscopes, visors, and eye loops.
  • Utilize computer hardware and software.
  • Use MS Office (e.g. Excel, Word).
  • Collect and record data.
  • Read and comprehend instructions, short correspondences, and memos.
  • Operate various kinds of test equipment.
  • Operate UV curing systems.
  • Operate thermal curing ovens.
  • Measure and pour chemicals.

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND FACILITIES TECHNICIAN DUTIES INCLUDE:

  • Service and maintain manufacturing equipment and tools.
  • Troubleshoot and repair manufacturing and support equipment.
  • Work with engineers and managers to resolve issues or plan for new equipment.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot facility systems (gases, chemicals, compressed air, water, waste streams).
  • Locate and order parts and materials.
  • Serve as a member of the Emergency Response Team.
  • Train and support new technicians.
  • Maintain facility data collection requirements and procedures.

Please note that this is an invitation only event, RSVP is required. If you'd like to attend, please submit your interest and resume via the link below. Should you be selected, someone from our Talent Acquisition team will reach out to have a preliminary conversation before sending confirmation details for this exclusive event.

#RL1

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.