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Aerospace System Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Parsons is looking for a talented Aerospace Systems Engineer to join our growing space launch ... Leading the development and management of system requirements, traceability, and CONOPS for launch ...

Lead system safety activities, including hazard analysis and safety assessments, to ensure safe flight and operational compliance * Develop system, software, and hardware architectures that meet ...

Lead system safety activities, including hazard analysis and safety assessments, to ensure safe flight and operational compliance * Develop system, software, and hardware architectures that meet ...

Lead system safety activities, including hazard analysis and safety assessments, to ensure safe flight and operational compliance * Develop system, software, and hardware architectures that meet ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

S. Space Force's mission ground systems for a critical Space Sensing mission area. This role ... Provide SME-level aerospace engineering expertise for missile warning mission ground systems ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) missile warning ground mission - a major program area ... Provide SME-level aerospace engineering expertise on missile warning ground processing, mission ...

Showing results 21-40

Aerospace System Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do aerospace system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace system engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aerospace System Engineer vs Aerospace Design Engineer?

AspectAerospace System EngineerAerospace Design Engineer
Primary FocusSystems integration, functionality, and overall system performanceComponent and subsystem design, development, and optimization
Required SkillsSystems engineering, systems architecture, integration, testingCAD, structural analysis, aerodynamics, materials
Work EnvironmentCollaborates across teams, often in systems labs or on aircraft/spacecraft projectsDesign studios, CAD environments, prototype labs
CertificationsTypically none specific, but systems engineering certifications are commonOften requires engineering licenses or design certifications

In summary, Aerospace System Engineers focus on integrating and managing entire aerospace systems, ensuring all components work together effectively. Aerospace Design Engineers concentrate on creating and refining individual components and subsystems. Both roles are essential and often collaborate closely in aerospace projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace system engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace System Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, systems integration, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD tools, simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink), and industry standards like DO-178C, as well as relevant certifications, is often required. Strong collaboration, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working across multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These competencies ensure the delivery of safe, reliable, and innovative aerospace systems in a highly regulated and technologically advanced industry.

How does an aerospace system engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a project?

Aerospace System Engineers frequently work alongside specialists in avionics, propulsion, structural engineering, and software development to ensure that all systems integrate seamlessly. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as engineers must align requirements, resolve technical conflicts, and validate system interfaces. Regular meetings, design reviews, and documentation updates are common practices that facilitate this collaboration. By engaging with diverse teams, Aerospace System Engineers play a pivotal role in delivering safe, reliable, and high-performing aerospace solutions.

What is an aerospace system engineer?

Aerospace System Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and oversee complex systems used in aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They integrate various engineering disciplines to ensure all components of an aerospace system work effectively together. Their work involves requirements analysis, system modeling, testing, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Aerospace System Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve challenging technical problems and optimize system performance throughout a project's lifecycle.
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace System Engineer jobs in California? For Aerospace System Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace System Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace System Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Aerospace System Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Aerospace System Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerospace System Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Aerospace Systems Engineer

Parsons Corporation

Torrance, CA • On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Parsons rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

257th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!
At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.
Job Description:
Parsons is looking for a talented Aerospace Systems Engineer to join our growing space launch services team! You'll be joining a program dedicated to providing rideshare opportunities to spacecraft and satellites onboard NSSL launch vehicles (ULA and SpaceX).
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Leading the development and management of system requirements, traceability, and CONOPS for launch and spacecraft systems.
  • Leading verification, testing, and analysis activities to ensure system integrity and mission success.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams and participating in design reviews.
  • Providing technical input and troubleshooting support throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Engaging in hands-on operations and supporting technician-level activities as needed.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:
  • Active Secret security clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field (Master's preferred), or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in classical systems engineering (requirements, traceability, CONOPS, verification, testing, analysis).
  • Experience in launch and/or spacecraft systems engineering.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, technical environment.

What Desired Skills You Might Bring:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • Electrical engineering experience, especially with avionics testing.
  • Hands-on operations or technician background.
  • Experience supporting technical product lines or integration activities.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and best practices for systems engineering.

Security Clearance Requirement:
An active Secret security clearance is required for this position.
This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.
The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.
Salary Range: $88,400.00 - $154,700.00
We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!
Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.
We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!
Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to https://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

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