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Astronautical Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alutiiq, LLC

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$195K - $250K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline from an ABET ...

Sophia Space

Mission Systems Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$106K - $163K/yr

S. in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Systems Engineering, or related discipline. * 4-7 years of spacecraft systems ...

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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.
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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.

LEAD ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - ADCS/GNC

Southwest Research Institute

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$92K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 73 rated research

Job description

Who We Are:
The Spacecraft Development Department is a group of innovative engineers, program managers, and technicians developing unique spacecraft solutions for challenging space missions. We design and fabricate custom solutions to explore the boundaries of science or solve complex problems not yet delivered by industry to accommodate a variety of payloads.
Objectives of this Role:
  • Designing and deploying GNC/ADCS systems, developing high fidelity simulations, and supporting mission design and flight operations.
  • Building and leading highly technical teams.
  • Work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team to conceptualize, design, analyze, implement, and verify ADCS across the full mission lifecycle
  • ADCS design team will collaborate with the Project Systems Engineer and other space craft subsystems during requirements definition, architecture trade studies, detailed design, integration and test, deployment, and on orbit operations.
  • Play a key role in GNC/ADCS for spacecraft and serve as a technical authority while still executing detailed analysis and development work.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Develop and refine spacecraft ADCS/GNC architectures, algorithms, and flight software and build, maintain and validate 3D3DOF/6DOF simulations to support design, verification, and mission analysis.
  • Perform spacecraft dynamics and control analysis, including performance assessments, sensitivity studies, and hardware/sensor trade offs.
  • Support mission design activities, including trajectory design, maneuver planning, and operational concept development.
  • Participate in integration, verification, and validation activities, including hardware in the loop simulations and flight readiness efforts.
  • Support test and flight operations: configuration of ADCS/GNC systems for flight, real time monitoring, anomaly investigation, etc.
  • Document designs, analyses, test plans, and results; present findings to cross functional engineering teams, management, and customers.
  • Collaborate with systems, propulsion, structures, avionics, and flight software teams to ensure robust end to end spacecraft performance.
  • Contribute to the development and analysis of future ADCS concepts, architectures, and enabling technologies.

Requirements:
  • Requires a Bachelors or a Masters degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Space Systems Engineering, and Electrical Engineering or related engineering degree field with experience in Attitude Determination and Control (ADCS) and/or Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC).
  • 6-10 years: Demonstrated technical expertise in simulation development and control/guidance design for spacecraft, including successful deployment to flight or on orbit operations.
  • 6-10 years: Experience implementing GNC/ADCS algorithms in flight software or hardware in the loop environments.
  • 6-10 years: Proficiency in: Python, C++, or Matlab for analysis and development.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:
Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas
For more information about this division, visit the Space Systems home page.
For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .
An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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