JPL to Lay Off 11% of Workforce

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has announced Plans to Slash 11% of its Workforce on September 18th, with around 550 Staffers expected to be Laid-Off. JPL Director Dave Gallagher said in a Note to Staff that the Job Cuts are Unrelated to the Ongoing Government Shutdown, but rather part of an ongoing Restructuring that will Help the Lab "transform at the scale and pace necessary to help achieve humanity’s boldest ambitions in space." JPL Eliminated around 850 Roles in 2024.

"Today marks another Difficult moment for many at JPL. As we prepare for another Workforce Reduction, I find myself reflecting on the incredible years I’ve spent here — the opportunities to grow, the recognition received, and the friendships, collaborations, and mentorships that have shaped and redirected my career. Whenever a chapter in my life has ended, something better has always followed. For those facing uncertainty tomorrow, please remember: this moment doesn’t define you — it redirects you. Our talent, determination, creativity, and kindness will find new places to thrive. Sometimes change isn’t the end of a story; it’s the beginning of one, you never knew you were meant to write." hashtag#AdAstra wrote.

Planetary Scientist, Program Manager, Project Scientist, Science Formulation Planetary Scientist, Program Manager, Project Scientist, and Science Formulation, are being let go. Another round of JPL Layoffs bringing the workforce to its Lowest Level since the 1990s. Such a Waste of Dedicated and Talented People, many of whom will be Left in Difficult Situations in a Terrible Job Market. This is Not a Result of the Government Shutdown, but a Loss of Business due to Longer Term Administration Policy.

"In order to best position JPL going forward, we are taking steps to restructure and establish an appropriate size to ensure future success. As part of this effort, JPL is undergoing a realignment of its workforce, including a reduction in staff. This reduction — part of a reorganization that began in July and not related to the current government shutdown — will affect approximately 550 of our colleagues across technical, business, and support areas. Employees will be notified of their status on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Over the past few months, we have communicated openly with employees about the challenges and hard choices ahead. This week’s action, while not easy, is essential to securing JPL’s future by creating a leaner infrastructure, focusing on our core technical capabilities, maintaining fiscal discipline, and positioning us to compete in the evolving space ecosystem — all while continuing to deliver on our vital work for NASA and the nation. We are grateful for the contributions of our departing colleagues, whose work has advanced exploration and innovation in ways that benefit us all."










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