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Salaried Spacecraft Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aetherflux

Senior Spacecraft Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Design, develop, and integrate spacecraft subsystems, including structures, power, thermal, and ... The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience ...

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Salaried Spacecraft Design information

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How much do salaried spacecraft design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for salaried spacecraft design in the United States is $50.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Salaried Spacecraft Design vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectSalaried Spacecraft DesignSatellite Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D facilities, spacecraft manufacturing sitesSatellite development labs, ground station environments, field testing
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and space agenciesIn satellite manufacturing companies and space agencies

Both roles involve engineering expertise in space technology, but Salaried Spacecraft Designers focus on conceptual and detailed spacecraft design, while Satellite Systems Engineers concentrate on satellite system integration and performance. They often collaborate but have distinct responsibilities within the space industry.

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

To thrive as a Spacecraft Designer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications such as ITAR compliance are crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring innovative, reliable, and safe spacecraft designs that meet rigorous performance and safety standards.

What is a salaried spacecraft designer?

A salaried spacecraft designer is a professional who is employed by an organization—such as a government agency, private aerospace company, or research institution—to create and develop spacecraft and related systems. Their work involves applying engineering principles to design, test, and refine vehicles that operate in space, such as satellites, space probes, and crewed spacecraft. Unlike contract or freelance designers, salaried spacecraft designers typically receive a regular paycheck and employee benefits. They often collaborate in multidisciplinary teams and may specialize in areas like propulsion, structural design, avionics, or thermal systems. Their work plays a vital role in advancing space exploration, satellite communications, and scientific discovery.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in salaried spacecraft design roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in salaried spacecraft design roles often encounter challenges such as balancing stringent technical requirements with budgetary and time constraints, coordinating interdisciplinary collaboration, and keeping up with rapidly advancing technologies. Addressing these challenges typically involves strong project management skills, effective communication among engineering teams, and continuous professional development through training and research. Proactively engaging with cross-functional teams and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can also help mitigate common hurdles and ensure project success.
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Salaried Spacecraft Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Salaried Spacecraft Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,435 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Senior Spacecraft Design Engineer

Impulse Space

Redondo Beach, CA • On-site

$140K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Senior Spacecraft Design Engineer
Department: Propulsion
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Redondo Beach
Compensation: $140,000 - $195,000 / year
Description
Impulse is developing a variety of liquid propulsion systems and looking for design engineers who will contribute to critical development projects. As a Sr. Fluid Systems Engineer, you will be part of the Propulsion Engineering organization and own all aspects of propulsion system layout of a high-performance spacecraft, from concept to product realization, while working with a fast-paced, agile team.
Responsibilities
  • Layout complex and highly integrated fluid and mechanical systems
  • Own all aspects of component design from concept to product realization
  • Generate detailed CAD models and manufacturing drawings
  • Perform fluid, thermal, and structural analysis as required
  • Work with internal and external sources to procure materials, fabricate parts, and complete assemblies
  • Resolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutions

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field
  • 5+ years of demonstrated, hands-on experience in designing complex, high-pressure, high-performance fluid and mechanical systems
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience working with fluid, electrical and mechanical systems
  • Proficiency in creating engineering drawings and 3D CAD models with GD&T (ASME Y14.5)
  • Demonstrated ability in requirements definition, conceptual design, procurement, fabrication, assembly and testing of hardware

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • 5+ years of demonstrated experience in designing and delivering flight propulsion components for high-pressure, and high-performance applications
  • Experience with in-space propulsion components
  • Experience with Siemens NX
  • Strong project management skills and effective communication of technical concepts across multi-disciplinary teams
  • Experience in a startup or agile development environment

Additional Requirement
  • Flexible schedule and willing to travel as needed

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space's spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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