ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Astronautical Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QinetiQ US

SETA Mission Support Member

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Experience supporting IC flight operations and ground ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Mission Support Member

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Experience supporting IC flight operations and ground ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Mission Support Member

Chantilly, VA

$43K - $50K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Experience supporting IC flight operations and ground ...

QinetiQ US

SETA Mission Support Member

Chantilly, VA

$150K - $200K/yr

Technical background in aerospace engineering, astronautical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline * Experience supporting IC flight operations and ground ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsEngineering JobsAstronautical Engineering Jobs

astronautical engineering information

See salary details

$18

$47

$69

How much do astronautical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronautical engineering in the United States is $47.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.70 and $56.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is astronautical engineering?

An Astronautical Engineering job involves the design, development, and testing of spacecraft, satellites, and other space-related technology. Engineers in this field work on propulsion systems, navigation, communications, and structural design to ensure spacecraft can operate in the harsh conditions of space. They may be employed by government agencies like NASA, private aerospace companies, or defense contractors. Their work contributes to space exploration, satellite communications, and national defense.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in astronautical engineering?

To thrive as an Astronautical Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, aerospace fundamentals, and typically a bachelor's or higher degree in astronautical or aerospace engineering. Proficiency with tools like CAD software, systems simulation platforms, and familiarity with industry standards such as NASA or ESA protocols is important. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart. These capabilities are crucial for designing, testing, and managing spacecraft, ensuring mission safety, performance, and innovation in a highly technical field.

What are some common challenges faced by astronautical engineers in their daily work?

Astronautical engineers often tackle complex challenges related to designing reliable spacecraft and systems that can withstand the harsh conditions of space. They must account for strict safety requirements, severe environmental factors like radiation and vacuum, and extremely tight tolerances for weight and cost. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, project managers, and manufacturing specialists, is essential to meet project objectives. Successfully addressing these challenges requires creative problem-solving and a commitment to continuous learning, making the work both demanding and rewarding.

Are astronautical engineers in demand?

Astronautical engineers are in demand in aerospace, defense, and space exploration industries, especially as space agencies and private companies expand their programs. Employment opportunities often require strong skills in systems design, propulsion, and satellite technology, with demand influenced by government budgets and technological advancements.

Do astronautical engineers make good money?

Astronautical engineers typically earn competitive salaries, with median annual wages often exceeding the national average for engineering roles. Salaries vary based on experience, education, location, and employer, with those working for government agencies or aerospace companies generally earning higher compensation. Advanced skills in systems design, propulsion, and spacecraft technology can also influence earning potential.

Does NASA hire astronautical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires astronautical engineers to work on spacecraft design, propulsion systems, and space mission planning. These roles typically require a degree in aerospace or astronautical engineering, strong technical skills, and security clearances. NASA offers employment opportunities for qualified engineers in various research and development projects related to space exploration.

What do astronautical engineers do?

Astronautical engineers design, develop, and test spacecraft, satellites, and related systems used in space exploration and communication. They work with principles of aerodynamics, propulsion, and orbital mechanics, often using simulation software and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Their work typically involves research, analysis, and ensuring safety and reliability of space vehicles.
More about astronautical engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Astronautical Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Astronautical Engineering job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Astronautical Engineering jobs?

The most popular types of Astronautical Engineering jobs are:

What states have the most Astronautical Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Astronautical Engineering jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Astronautical Engineering jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Astronautical Engineering jobs are:

astronautical engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronautical Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,145 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Director of Mission Engineering

Turion Space

Irvine, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

At Turion Space, understanding the mission space is what turns advanced technology into operational capability. As the Director of Mission Engineering, you'll lead the modeling and simulation efforts that frame how our systems perform against real mission needs, building mission-specific Design Reference Missions (DRMs), running the system trades that shape our architectures, and demonstrating how Turion's solutions deliver in the contexts that matter to our customers.
This is a highly cross-functional leadership role. You'll work hand-in-hand with engineering functional teams and business development to translate mission needs into rigorous analysis, inform both material and non-material solution architectures, and ensure our technical direction is grounded in a clear-eyed understanding of the mission. Your work will directly shape what Turion builds and how we prove its value. This position is onsite at our Irvine, California headquarters.
Job Responsibilities
  • Lead the mission engineering function at Turion Space, building a high-performing team and establishing the processes and tools needed to deliver rigorous mission analysis.
  • Support engagements with customers and stakeholders to understand, analyze, and translate mission needs into actionable engineering requirements.
  • Lead modeling and simulation efforts to characterize and understand the mission space.
  • Lead efforts to define Turion's commercial space offerings.
  • Implement mission-specific Design Reference Missions (DRMs) within simulation environments to frame and evaluate system performance.
  • Support material and non-material solution architecting in response to mission needs and capability gaps.
  • Lead system trade studies to inform architecture, design, and investment decisions.
  • Demonstrate and quantify Turion's system performance in the context of the DRMs.
  • Partner closely with engineering functional teams to align technical solutions with mission objectives.
  • Collaborate with business development to translate customer mission needs into compelling, technically grounded solutions.
  • Build, mentor, and lead the mission engineering function and its team.
  • Communicate mission engineering findings and recommendations to engineering leadership, executives, and customers.

Basic Qualifications
  • M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 10+ years of professional experience in mission engineering, systems engineering, or modeling and simulation, including experience in a technical leadership role.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and implementing Design Reference Missions (DRMs) and mission-level modeling and simulation.
  • Experience leading system trade studies and supporting solution architecting (material and non-material).
  • Strong understanding of space mission design, concepts of operations (CONOPS), and end-to-end system performance analysis.
  • Demonstrated ability to work across engineering disciplines and with non-engineering stakeholders to drive toward mission objectives.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in an aerospace, astronautical, systems engineering, or related technical discipline.
  • Experience supporting business development, capture, or proposal efforts in the aerospace or defense industry.
  • Familiarity with defense capability development processes and non-material solution analysis (e.g., DOTMLPF, JCIDS, capability-based assessments).
  • Experience with space domain awareness (SDA), space situational awareness (SSA), or related mission areas.
  • Experience building and leading high-performing engineering teams.

Employees may be asked to support alternate shifts, extended shifts, and/or travel during peak work periods.
ITAR Requirements:
This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls.
Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:
  • Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
  • Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan with a 3% Employer Direct Contribution to help you plan for your future.
  • Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.
  • Parental Leave: Paid parental leave following the birth of a newborn or adoption.
  • Emotional Wellbeing: A no-cost Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your household's emotional health and wellbeing.
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing internal training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.
  • Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment.

We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.
Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion 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.

Apply