ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Space Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colorwave Inc

Head of Radar, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

Program Management: Oversee budget, schedule, and resource allocation for this high-stakes space program. Identify and mitigate technical and programmatic risks across the entire mission lifecycle.

Anduril Industries

Head of Radar, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

Program Management : Oversee budget, schedule, and resource allocation for this high-stakes space program. Identify and mitigate technical and programmatic risks across the entire mission lifecycle.

anduril

Head of Radar, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

Program Management: Oversee budget, schedule, and resource allocation for this high-stakes space program. Identify and mitigate technical and programmatic risks across the entire mission lifecycle.

Anduril Industries

Head of Radar, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

Program Management : Oversee budget, schedule, and resource allocation for this high-stakes space program. Identify and mitigate technical and programmatic risks across the entire mission lifecycle.

ARKA Group

Program Manager (Secret) {D}

Danbury, CT · On-site

Our space portfolio develops and provides high reliability electronics, sensors and data processing ... The program manager is the primary interface with the customer ensuring mission success.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpace Program Jobs

Space Program information

See salary details

$29K

$39.7K

$56K

How much do space program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for space program in the United States is $39,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $39,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Space Program career, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Space Program career, you typically need advanced education in engineering, physics, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with specialized software (such as MATLAB, CAD, or mission planning tools), and certifications in project management or aerospace systems are often required. Exceptional teamwork, communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex, high-stakes projects. These competencies ensure successful mission planning, execution, and innovation in the challenging environment of space exploration.

What is the difference between Space Program vs Satellite Technician?

AspectSpace ProgramSatellite Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, specialized training in aerospaceTechnical diploma or associate degree, electronics or telecommunications training
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, launch sites, mission controlField sites, satellite ground stations, repair workshops
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, aerospace companies, research institutionsSatellite service providers, telecommunications companies, government agencies

While both roles involve working with space technology, a Space Program focuses on planning, developing, and managing space missions, often requiring advanced engineering skills. A Satellite Technician specializes in maintaining, repairing, and installing satellite systems, typically with technical certifications. Both careers are vital in the space industry but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required qualifications.

What is a space program?

A space program is an organized effort, typically led by a government or private agency, to explore, research, and utilize outer space. Space programs often focus on launching satellites, sending astronauts into space, conducting scientific experiments, and advancing technology for space exploration. Notable examples include NASA's Artemis program and SpaceX's commercial launch initiatives. These programs contribute to scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and sometimes international cooperation. They play a crucial role in expanding our understanding of the universe and developing new applications that benefit life on Earth.

What careers are there for space?

Careers in the space industry include aerospace engineers, astrophysicists, satellite technicians, mission controllers, and spacecraft designers. These roles often require specialized education in engineering, science, or technology, and may involve working in laboratories, on launch sites, or in mission control centers.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

In the space industry, roles such as commercial pilot, aerospace technician, or sales director can reach or exceed $200,000 annually without requiring a traditional four-year degree, often relying on specialized training, certifications, or extensive experience. High-paying positions in related fields like satellite or aerospace sales, project management, or technical consulting may also achieve this income level through skills and industry expertise.

What engineers make $500,000?

In the space program, senior aerospace engineers, systems engineers, and propulsion engineers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn salaries around $500,000, especially in leadership roles or with bonuses and stock options. High-level engineers working on specialized projects or in managerial positions at major aerospace companies or government agencies are more likely to reach this compensation level.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a space program, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Professionals in a space program often encounter challenges such as working within strict safety protocols, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across various time zones, and adapting to rapidly evolving technology. Applicants can prepare by developing strong communication skills, staying current with advancements in aerospace engineering and project management, and demonstrating adaptability through prior teamwork or technical experiences. Emphasizing a commitment to continuous learning and problem-solving can also help applicants thrive in the dynamic environment of a space program.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the space program, senior aerospace engineers, project managers, and high-level executives can earn salaries around $400,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles. These positions often require specialized skills, security clearances, and years of industry experience.
More about Space Program jobs
What cities are hiring for Space Program jobs? Cities with the most Space Program job openings:
What states have the most Space Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Program jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Program jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Program jobs are:
Space Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Program job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,683 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Senior Manager, Manufacturing Engineering, Space

Senior Manager, Manufacturing Engineering, Space

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 72,416 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
ABOUT THE JOB
We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Senior Manager of Manufacturing Engineering to lead our manufacturing engineering efforts across multiple critical space programs. This pivotal role demands a visionary leader with deep technical expertise in advanced aerospace manufacturing, a proven track record of bringing complex space-qualified hardware from prototype to production, and an unwavering commitment to quality and mission success.
The Senior Manager will be responsible for overseeing manufacturing engineering teams and developing robust processes to ensure the successful fabrication, assembly, integration and test of high-reliability space components and systems. This individual will be instrumental in bridging the gap between design and production, ensuring manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to the most stringent space-flight quality standards.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
Strategic and Technical Leadership:
  • Recruit, mentor, develop, and lead a high-performing team of manufacturing engineers and integration & test engineers and foster a culture of innovation, excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Serve as the primary manufacturing engineering lead for several assigned space programs, ensuring technical alignment and execution.
  • Oversee the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes for complex, high-precision space-qualified hardware, including structures, propulsion, avionics, thermal systems, and optical components.
  • Drive the vision and strategy for growing Anduril's space program, identifying new opportunities and areas for innovation.

New Product Introduction:
  • Ensure robust Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles are integrated throughout the product lifecycle, influencing design decisions from early concept phases.
  • Lead Manufacturing Readiness Reviews (MRR) and production readiness assessments.
  • Lead Test Readiness Reviews (TRR) and test campaign readiness assessments.
  • Oversee the design, development, documentation, and optimization of manufacturing processes for highly complex, space components, sub-systems, and integrated systems.
  • Establish and enforce rigorous quality control standards and inspection methods, ensuring all hardware meets stringent space-grade requirements and a zero-defect mentality.
  • Provide technical guidance on manufacturing facility layout, equipment selection, and tooling design for both pilot builds and production environments, including cleanroom operations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Serve as the primary manufacturing engineering interface with Design Engineering, Supply Chain, Program Management, Test, and Operations.
  • Collaborate with Supply Chain to assess supplier manufacturing capabilities, quality, and readiness for critical components.
  • Support proposals, technical reviews, and customer briefings, representing manufacturing engineering capabilities and strategy.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Degree in a technical field preferred such as engineering, math, or a hard science.
  • At least 8+ years of experience in a relevant field, preferably space and satellite manufacturing, systems engineering, or design of electromechanical hardware.
  • Demonstrated ability to creatively deliver electromechanical hardware in a resource-constrained environment.
  • Experience in unit-level/space vehicle/system integration, assembly, and environmental testing (eg., vibration, thermal vacuum, acoustic, shock, and EMI/EMC)
  • Background in integration and testing of avionics/optical payloads, solar, propulsion, ADCS, or other space hardware.
  • Proven team leadership skills, with examples of successfully managing and developing a diverse team.
  • Personal experience physically manufacturing hardware through various methods (machining, fabrication, soldering, assembly, etc.). Work on personal or extracurricular projects is a plus.
  • Possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly; apply them accurately; organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; and, determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
  • Familiarity with CAD software, Manufacturing Execution systems, and ERP/MRP systems.
  • A genuine interest in manufacturing and a thirst for learning, particularly in the space domain.
  • Willingness to travel frequently (>25%) to support global manufacturing operations
  • Demonstrated success in scaling product testing and production from one to tens/hundreds.
  • Active security clearance or ability to obtain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in test hardware and software development
  • Software scripting experience in python
  • Experience writing test plans, procedures, and work instruction documentation.
  • Ability to work effectively in space manufacturing environments.
  • Demonstrated skill at driving and questioning design and customer requirements.

US Salary Range
$166,000-$220,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Anduril Industries Jobs

Apply