NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory Announces 550 Job Cuts

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, will reduce its workforce by approximately 550 positions, roughly 10% of its staff, in a realignment intended to secure the lab’s future.

In a statement released yesterday, JPL Director Dave Gallagher explained the cuts will impact technical, business, and support areas across the center. “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,” Gallagher said. Employees will be notified of their status today, October 13, 2025.

JPL, managed by the California Institute of Technology and funded by NASA, has a storied history, responsible for landmark missions like the first U.S. satellite, Explorer 1, launched in 1958, and all five successful Mars rovers. These cuts come amid broader budgetary pressures facing NASA, which has seen significant funding and personnel reductions in recent years; a trend that could impact the pace of future space exploration. You can learn more about NASA’s mission and programs on their official website.

The realignment is not related to the recent government shutdown, according to JPL officials. This follows a period of workforce adjustments at NASA, including approximately 4,000 employees accepting deferred resignation offers since 2017, reducing the agency’s staff by nearly 20%. For more information on federal workforce trends, see the Office of Personnel Management.

JPL leadership stated they are focused on maintaining the lab’s ability to deliver on its commitments to NASA and continue vital work for the nation.