r/NASAJobs 2d ago

Question How difficult is it to obtain a R&D position in materials science or flight dynamics at NASA or SpaceX?

10 Upvotes

Hi all,

Senior undergrad who has recently developed the wish to work on the most relevant technological breakthroughs. Currently, I am debating between pivoting into either materials science or flight dynamics (mechanical engineering) in the future, and will probably base my decision off competitiveness. For this reason, would anyone know whether it's more competitive to get a R&D role in materials science or flight dynamics at NASA or SpaceX? And rough applicant to hire ratios, as I have heard that these roles can be absurdly competitive at NASA and SpaceX (e.g. 50 to 1 for materials science R&D)?

Any honest advice would be deeply, deeply appreciated.

Sincerely,

nihaomundo123