NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to Lay Off 5% of Workforce

JPL to Cut 250 Jobs Amidst Budget Constraints

Engineering and Science Positions Targeted in Downsizing

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a federally funded research and development center managed by the California Institute of Technology, has announced plans to lay off approximately 5% of its workforce, or about 250 employees. The layoffs are expected to take effect in the coming months and will primarily affect engineering and science positions.

JPL Director Laurie Leshin attributed the layoffs to budget constraints, particularly the flat funding levels for NASA's science programs. She stated that "these reductions are necessary to ensure the long-term health of the laboratory and its ability to continue delivering on its scientific and exploration missions."

The layoffs come as part of a broader restructuring effort at JPL, which has seen the consolidation of some departments and the creation of new ones. Leshin emphasized that "JPL remains committed to its core mission of space exploration and scientific discovery, and we will continue to invest in our people and facilities to ensure our continued success."

Reasons for Layoffs

• Flat funding levels for NASA's science programs
• Need to reduce operating costs
• Consolidation of departments and creation of new ones

Positions Affected

• Engineering positions
• Science positions

JPL's Commitment to Space Exploration

Despite the layoffs, JPL remains committed to its mission of space exploration and scientific discovery. The laboratory will continue to invest in its people and facilities to ensure its continued success in this field.