About the Role
As a Principal Launch Operations Engineer, you will have a front-row seat in the launch control room during one of the most demanding and exhilarating moments in engineering: a live rocket launch. You will not just observe the countdown; you will own critical systems, make real-time decisions, and help guide a vehicle from initial power-up through liftoff. In this role, you will bring structure and disciplined execution to complex propulsion development and launch operations, shaping how missions are prepared, tested, and flown. From hands-on hardware integration in the field to commanding systems through integrated control software and analyzing live telemetry under pressure, you will operate at the intersection of precision, speed, and accountability.
Conduct complex propulsion tests and launch operations to evaluate rocket engine and stage performance.
Create and optimize automated test sequences, procedures, and data review processes to ensure safe, efficient, and repeatable execution.
Command and monitor the launch pad and flight hardware through GUIs and integrated control, automation, and telemetry systems.
Perform hardware setup, system configuration, and cross-disciplinary troubleshooting.
Analyze test data and partner with design engineering to improve rocket system performance based on real-world results.
About You
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Software Engineering, or Computer Science.
Minimum 10 years of relevant engineering experience.
Strong engineering fundamentals across thermal, structural, electrical, and fluid systems.
Proven ability to collaborate effectively in team environments and perform under high-pressure, schedule-driven conditions.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as required by operations.
Nice to Haves But Not Required
Working knowledge of rocket subsystems, including structures, mechanisms, high-pressure fluid systems, and avionics.
Hands-on experience supporting propulsion test and launch operations.
Intermediate proficiency in object-oriented programming.
Proven ability to quickly learn new skills, programming languages, and tools.
Experience developing user interfaces and operator-in-the-loop automation tools for manufacturing and test.
Successful candidates must clear a background check administered by the US government to obtain clearance for on-site work at our government partner location in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
At Relativity Space, we are committed to transparency and fairness in our compensation practices. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.
Compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, a generous PTO and sick leave policy, parental leave, an annual learning and development stipend, and more! To see some of the benefits & perks we offer, please visit here.
Hiring Range
$185,000—$277,000 USD
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at accommodations@relativityspace.com.
Please note: Relativity Space does not accept unsolicited resumes, candidate profiles, or referrals from recruitment agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited submission - via email, our website, social media, or directly to an employee - will be deemed the property of Relativity Space, and no fee will be owed absent a current, fully executed agreement with Talent Acquisition that specifically authorizes submissions for the applicable role.
