ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rocket Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Rocket Lab Corporation

Sr. FPGA Engineer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$143K - $214K/yr

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

Sr. FPGA Engineer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRocket JobsRocket Jobs in Washington

Rocket information

See Washington salary details

$47K

$91.9K

$197.1K

How much do rocket jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for rocket in Washington is $91,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,100.00 and $86,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rocket engineer?

Rocket engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain rockets and other spacecraft. They work on propulsion systems, structural components, guidance systems, and safety measures to ensure rockets can safely deliver payloads into space. Rocket engineers often have backgrounds in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex challenges in spaceflight. Their work is essential for space exploration, satellite deployment, and scientific research.

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

To thrive as a Rocket Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and experience with propulsion systems or structural analysis are commonly required, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for innovating and ensuring safety. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable rockets, overcoming complex engineering challenges, and ensuring mission success in the aerospace industry.

What are some common challenges faced by rocket engineers during the launch preparation phase?

Rocket engineers often encounter challenges related to tight deadlines, rigorous safety protocols, and the need for precise coordination among multidisciplinary teams. During launch preparation, they must troubleshoot unexpected technical issues, ensure all systems are integrated correctly, and conduct thorough testing under strict regulatory standards. Effective communication with propulsion, avionics, and ground support teams is essential to address last-minute changes and maintain the launch schedule. This high-stakes environment requires adaptability, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills.

What is the difference between Rocket vs Drone Operator?

AspectRocketDrone Operator
Required CertificationsFAA Part 107 (for commercial use), specialized trainingFAA Part 107, remote pilot certificate, drone-specific training
Work EnvironmentLaunch sites, laboratories, outdoor testing areasIndoor studios, outdoor fields, various locations depending on assignments
Industry UsageAerospace, defense, space explorationMedia, agriculture, real estate, inspection services

Both Rocket and Drone Operator roles require FAA certifications and specialized training. Rockets are used mainly in aerospace and defense sectors, involving launch sites and testing facilities. Drone Operators work across diverse industries like media and agriculture, often in outdoor or indoor environments. While both involve remote piloting, their applications and work settings differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Rocket jobs in Washington?

For Rocket jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Rocket jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Rocket jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Rocket job openings:

Rocket jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rocket job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,910 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Rocket Propulsion Engineer

Indian Head, MD • On-site

Advanced Technology & Research Corporation
Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Advanced Technology & Research Corporationexternal

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Rocket Propulsion Engineer

Location: Indian Head, MD; Department: Engineering Services

Type: Full-Time; Min. Experience: Mid-Level; Salary Range: $100,000 to $115,000 USD per year

Advanced Technology & Research Corporation (www.atrcorp.com) is seeking to fill the following full-time permanent position. Based in Maryland and incorporated in 1973, ATR is an equal-opportunity engineering company with a solid reputation in various engineering disciplines for the government and Fortune 500 commercial customers.

Salary for the position is competitive according to qualifications. ATR offers an attractive comprehensive benefits package, including Medical/Dental insurances, free basic life/ADD, and long‑term and short‑term disability insurances, 401(k) plan, educational assistance program, and 5 weeks of paid leave per year for minimum seniority.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.

Qualified persons should apply at: https://advancedtechnologyandresearchcorporation.applytojob.com/apply

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

The successful applicant will join ATR's Engineering Services Division, working as a mid-level engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, Indian Head, MD. You will have an opportunity to work on world‑class military programs that support the US Navy's Warfare technology as part of the Surface Systems Branch. The applicant shall work on site with other engineers and provide support for rocket motor and energetic component in‑service and production engineering, including fleet failure investigations, energetic components and explosive test and analysis, failure investigations, and configuration management of technical data.

Education & Experience Requirements
  • BS degree in Mechanical engineering
  • 3+ years of engineering experience
  • Experience with design, analysis, fundamentals of rocket motor propulsion (preferred)
  • Job experience with DoD (a plus)
Skills & Abilities Requirements
  • Analytical skills with respect to mechanical drawings, schematics, and diagrams
  • Strong MS Office skills (MS Word, MS Excel, MS Project)
  • Experience with MATLAB (or similar) and CAD (Creo or SolidWorks) (preferred)
  • Hands‑on experience with testing ordnance and explosives (preferred)
  • Experience working in teams and individually
  • Experience tracking and managing projects
  • Experience handling multiple assignments and working in a dynamic environment
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and attention to detail
  • Experience with analysis report writing and weekly report writing
  • Some travel required
Other Requirements

Candidate must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance or favorable adjudication of a national security background investigation. Current successful background investigation completion is a plus.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply