environment | May 07, 2026

What do computer engineers do at NASA?

Computer Hardware Engineering NASA also needs computer hardware engineers to research and design computer systems that measure activity in outer space.

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Likewise, does NASA hire computer engineers?

To tackle our diverse missions, NASA hires 20 different types of engineers; the most common fields are aerospace, general, and computer engineers. Learn more about development and training for engineers at NASA.

Beside above, can a computer scientist be an engineer? A computer science degree from a respected institution is the most flexible of all computing degrees. With this degree, you can become a computer scientist or a software engineer. Computer science graduates are the candidates of choice for most information technology positions.

Considering this, what type of engineers work for NASA?

The engineering degrees most in-demand at NASA include aerospace engineering, computer hardware engineering, electronics engineering and mechanical engineering.

How do I become a NASA engineer?

  1. NASA, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, is responsible for science and technology related to air and space.
  2. There are specific educational requirements listed on NASA's website.
  3. The educational requirements are very rigorous and include a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college.
Related Question Answers

Is it hard to get into NASA?

It's now 74 times more difficult to get into NASA than Harvard. According to NASA, 18,300 people applied to its 2017 astronaut class — a program that selects eight to 14 individuals to become astronaut candidates. That makes this program 74 times harder to get into than Harvard, according to Business Insider.

How do I get a job at NASA?

To apply for a job at NASA, go to There you'll find the very latest job listings and information that will help you determine if you qualify for the position. NASA prefers to hire applicants with applicable university degrees, or those in the military with aviation experience and backgrounds.

What is space engineering called?

Aerospace engineering, also called aeronautical engineering, or astronautical engineering, field of engineering concerned with the design, development, construction, testing, and operation of vehicles operating in the Earth's atmosphere or in outer space.

Does NASA hire mechanical engineers?

Mechanical Engineering If you want to help create the sensors, tools, engines, or other machines that support space missions, you might want to be a mechanical engineer for NASA. These engineers often work with other engineering fields to develop these products.

Can you work at NASA with a mechanical engineering degree?

Mechanical engineering is a great degree to set you up to work at NASA (provided you are a US citizen or permanent US resident). It can be highly competitive, but a NASA internship is a possibility, which can lead nicely to full time employment.

How do I become an aerospace engineer?

Aerospace Engineers require at least a Bachelor's degree to enter into the field, typically in aerospace engineering. Some university programs offer 5-year programs that allow students to earn a bachelor's and master's degree at the same time. All Aerospace Engineering programs are accredited by the ABET.

What type of Engineers build rockets?

Aeronautical engineers and aerospace engineers design, manufacture and operate aircraft, spacecraft, missiles and rockets. The newest fighter jets and jumbo transport airline jets, as well as, the Space Shuttle owe their existence to these types of engineers.

What hours do computer hardware engineers work?

Computer hardware engineers typically work 40 hours a week. Roughly 25% of engineers work more than this.

Do you need a PHD to work at NASA?

Education Requirements To be hired as a NASA scientist, you need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in physics, astrophysics, astronomy, geology, space science or a similar field. With a master's degree or a Ph. D., however, you'll start at a higher salary.

Is aerospace engineering hard?

It is a very complete engineering and every single topic has a huge background to study, that what makes it difficult. Aerospace engineering shares a very strong similarity to mechanical engineering, and for that matter both are fairly close in content to electrical engineering.

What jobs do NASA offer?

NASA isn't just astronauts and scientists. NASA has engineers, mathematicians, accountants, historians, writers, computer support technicians, project managers, artists, educators, human resource personnel, public relations managers, physicians, lawyers -- and more.

Do aerospace engineers go to space?

Aerospace engineers don't go to space. They evaluate the spacecraft and aircraft they design using computer technology and inspections conducted in testing facilities.

What degree do you need to work at NASA?

NASA Jobs You Can Get With a Bachelor's Degree A surprising number of roles at NASA require only an undergraduate degree. Astronauts, for example, must have a bachelor's degree in physical science, biological science, computer science, math or engineering.

What type of engineering degree is best?

The Most Popular Engineering Majors in the US
  • Mechanical Engineering (ME) The most popular engineering degree, by far, is mechanical engineering.
  • Electrical Engineering (EE)
  • Civil Engineering.
  • Chemical Engineering.
  • Computer Engineering (CE)
  • Biomedical Engineering.
  • Industrial Engineering (IE)
  • Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering.

What kind of Engineers does spacex hire?

In the software development space, positions are available for avionics engineers, front-end software engineers, full-stack software engineers, embedded software engineers, wireless protocol software engineers, software test engineers, and solutions architects.

What does a rocket engineer do?

Rocket scientists and aerospace engineers generally work on the design and testing of rocket-propelled vehicles, such as orbiting spacecraft or missiles. They could specialize in a particular area of aerospace engineering, such as space exploration vehicles or defense systems.

How much money does a NASA engineer make?

NASA employees earn $64,000 annually on average, or $31 per hour, which is 2% higher than the national salary average of $63,000 per year. According to our data, the highest paying job at NASA is a Lead Engineer at $126,000 annually while the lowest paying job at NASA is a Student Researcher at $21,000 annually.

Who gets paid more computer science or computer engineering?

Computer science majors can earn 40 percent more than other college majors, and all occupations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) pay more than non- STEM careers by 12-30 percent across all education levels.

Is Computer Engineering a good career?

While there are many different jobs within the field of computer engineering, there are several commonalities among them that make it an excellent choice for the right person. The benefits of computer engineering as a career include great pay, job security and an environment of change and innovation.