NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, revealed on Tuesday plans to cut 550 jobs. This is part of a restructuring process that started back in July and isn’t directly linked to the ongoing government shutdown.
“To best position JPL for the future, we are making adjustments to ensure we have the right size for success,” stated JPL Director Dave Gallagher in a recent announcement. The focus is on restructuring to enhance operational efficiency.
The layoffs represent about 10% of JPL’s total workforce and will impact various sectors, including technology, business, and support roles.
Gallagher emphasized the tough conversations around these decisions, acknowledging the challenges ahead for employees. While the cuts are undoubtedly difficult, they are deemed necessary for securing a leaner infrastructure and maintaining strong capabilities in a competitive space environment. He reassured that the goal is to continue essential work for NASA and the nation.
This news follows the recent layoffs of 4,100 federal employees, who were furloughed due to the government shutdown. The Treasury Department specifically saw 1,446 workers affected by these reductions.
JPL is noted as NASA’s sole federally funded research and development center.
Previously, there were significant layoffs at JPL in February 2024, when 530 staff members lost their jobs, along with an additional 40 contractors.
Back in July, NASA cut around 20% of its staff, totaling about 4,000 positions, as part of broader efforts under President Trump’s administration to streamline the federal workforce since his return to power in January. These cuts included retirement deferrals and resignations aimed at optimizing government operations.
