ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Spacex Aerospace Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

GNC Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * 1+ years ...

SpaceX

GNC Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * 1+ years ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAerospace Engineer JobsSpacex Aerospace Engineer Jobs

Spacex Aerospace Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacex aerospace engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacex aerospace engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a SpaceX aerospace engineer?

SpaceX Aerospace Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test spacecraft, rockets, and related systems for SpaceX's missions. They work on everything from propulsion and structural components to avionics and systems integration. Their responsibilities include solving complex engineering problems, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring the safety and reliability of spacecraft. These engineers play a crucial role in advancing space technology and supporting SpaceX's goal of making space travel more accessible.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SpaceX aerospace engineer?

To thrive as a SpaceX Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, advanced problem-solving skills, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and experience with systems such as propulsion or avionics are commonly required, along with security clearance in certain cases. Exceptional teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills are crucial for collaborating in fast-paced, interdisciplinary project environments. These abilities ensure innovative, reliable solutions that advance SpaceX’s mission-critical aerospace projects and drive success in a highly competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by a SpaceX aerospace engineer when working on rapid prototyping projects?

As a SpaceX Aerospace Engineer, you'll often encounter the challenge of balancing speed with precision during rapid prototyping. The fast-paced environment requires quick iteration and adaptability, which can mean tight deadlines and frequent design changes. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including manufacturing, software, and test engineers—is essential to troubleshoot issues and ensure prototypes meet performance and safety standards. Adjusting to shifting project priorities while maintaining high-quality engineering solutions is a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Spacex Aerospace Engineer vs Spacex Mechanical Engineer?

AspectSpacex Aerospace EngineerSpacex Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Aerospace, Aeronautical, or Mechanical Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and test aerospace systems, often in labs or on launch sitesDesign, develop, and test mechanical components, typically in labs or manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across aerospace projects, including spacecraft and launch vehiclesApplied in spacecraft, rocket components, and related mechanical systems

Both roles require strong engineering backgrounds and relevant certifications. Aerospace Engineers focus on spacecraft and flight systems, while Mechanical Engineers work on mechanical components and systems. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their specific focus areas within the aerospace industry.

Does SpaceX need aerospace engineers?

SpaceX employs aerospace engineers to design, develop, and test spacecraft and launch systems. These engineers work on propulsion, structural design, and systems integration, often requiring knowledge of CAD tools and aerospace certifications. Their expertise is essential for advancing SpaceX's space exploration and satellite deployment goals.
More about Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Spacex Aerospace Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs are:

Spacex Aerospace Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacex Aerospace Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

New Graduate Engineer, GNC- '26/'27 (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX • On-site

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about SpaceXexternal

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
NEW GRADUATE ENGINEER, GNC - '26/'27 (STARLINK)
SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to join the Starlink guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team. Come help us write the autopilot algorithms for thousands of satellites (the world's largest constellation!) and more than two million user terminals, enabling access to high-speed broadband internet in all corners of the world.
There are several sub-teams within Starlink GNC with different focus areas. Applicants will interview for specific teams based on hiring needs and qualifications. Specific team responsibilities might include:
  • Constellation design and optimization
  • Fleet management and satellite orbit transfer automation, including all supporting software infrastructure
  • Constellation-level and network-level analysis of both existing and proposed satellite systems
  • Satellite collision avoidance
  • Satellite attitude determination and control
  • Satellite orbit control, such as low thrust trajectory optimization and station-keeping
  • Precision state estimation and control of various network payloads (RF antennas, laser inter-satellite links)

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, services, and dashboards using C++ or Python; Starlink GNC Engineers write actual production code, not just prototypes for transcription by another team
  • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews
  • Bulk data analysis to review performance data from various elements of the Starlink constellation and network
  • Write high quality technical documentation of programs, algorithms, or analysis
  • Support your relevant on-call operations rotation, commanding satellites or reviewing network data to keep our network continuously operating at peak performance

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline
  • Software development experience in either C++ or Python
  • Graduating in the class of 2026 or 2027

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Some preferred skills and experience depend on the specific team within Starlink GNC.
  • Master's degree or PHD in an engineering discipline or physics
  • Developed, debugged and deployed software that has been used in real world applications/projects
  • Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals
  • Cradle to grave development of three axis stabilized spacecraft incorporating momentum, magnetic, and propulsive control
  • Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, including low thrust trajectory optimization and stationkeeping
  • Experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance via simulation, and validation of the simulation's models
  • Experience with state estimation, particularly attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation
  • Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall
  • General familiarity with the disciplines necessary for spacecraft flight including; structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch and mission operations, and integration. Practical experience in real world development of these systems is highly desired
  • Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction
  • Passion for advancing the commercial space industry
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX 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.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to
SpaceX logo

About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

View All SpaceX Jobs

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply