1

Spacex Aerospace Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GNC ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * Software ...

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 * Software ...

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 * Software ...

GNC ENGINEER, ATTITUDE DETERMINATION AND CONTROL SYSTEM (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX ... Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science/software engineering, or an ...

GNC ENGINEER, ADCS (STARLINK) SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline * Software ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Spacex Aerospace Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacex aerospace engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in propulsion, avionics, or systems integration, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, particularly in leading aerospace companies or specialized roles requiring advanced certifications and security clearances.

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.

Can I make 200k as an Aerospace Engineer?

Senior aerospace engineers, including those working on projects like SpaceX, can earn salaries around or above $200,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-cost-of-living areas. Entry-level positions typically start lower, but salaries increase with specialization, certifications, and leadership roles in the aerospace industry.

How much do SpaceX aerospace engineers make?

SpaceX aerospace engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in propulsion, avionics, or systems design may earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and stock options.

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

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.

Do aerospace engineers work at SpaceX?

Yes, aerospace engineers work at SpaceX, where they design, develop, and test spacecraft and rocket systems. They often use tools like CAD software and may require specialized certifications or degrees in aerospace engineering or related fields. These engineers typically work in a collaborative environment focused on innovation and advanced technology development.

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.

What are SpaceX Aerospace Engineers?

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Spacex Aerospace Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
GNC Engineer, Beam Planning (Starshield)

GNC Engineer, Beam Planning (Starshield)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

GNC ENGINEER, BEAM PLANNING (STARSHIELD)

Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads.

As a GNC engineer on this team, you will bring a passion and expertise in areas like state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to join the Starshield GNC team. Engineers on this team support various payloads through initial conception to on-orbit operation, with a focus on beam planning and algorithm development. You will be driving future hardware design and optimizing current payload performance through modeling and simulation. We are looking for engineers who enjoy solving complex problems, can work effectively in a fast-paced environment, and are passionate about advancing the space industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, flight software, simulations, tools, and services using C++ or Python
  • Conduct analyses, recommend designs, and write GNC software that balances competing requirements
  • Build software tools and construct scenarios to analyze system performance
  • Write high-quality technical documentation of programs, algorithms, or analysis
  • Develop software models of the operation and performance of various payloads
  • Support your relevant on-call operations rotation, keep ground and vehicle software continuously operating at peak performance

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science/software engineering, or an engineering discipline
  • Software development experience in C++ or Python

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance via simulation and validation of the simulation's models
  • Experience simulating satellite payload performance
  • Demonstrated experience in developing state estimation algorithms or optimization
  • Experience with RF
  • Linux development experience
  • Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Active TS/SCI clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Able to work extended hours and weekends as needed to support critical path development and/or critical on-orbit operations
  • An active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions; if so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol test

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    
Pay range:    
GNC Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year    
GNC Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year       

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom