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Aerospace System Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Blue Origin

Senior Aerospace Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$197K - $276K/yr

As a Senior Aerospace Software Engineer on our team, you will take a leading role in designing ... Collaborate with systems engineers, mission designers, and other stakeholders to define software ...

QinetiQ US

System Engineer (SDA) - Enterprise

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$175K - $220K/yr

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work ... QinetiQ has an immediate opening for a systems engineer to support SDA's enterprise operations. The ...

QinetiQ US

System Engineer (SDA) - Enterprise

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$175K - $220K/yr

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work ... QinetiQ has an immediate opening for a systems engineer to support SDA's enterprise operations. The ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsAerospace System Engineer JobsAerospace System Engineer Jobs in Washington

Aerospace System Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$60.6K

$144.1K

$189.1K

How much do aerospace system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace system engineer in Washington is $144,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $177,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Aerospace System Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Aerospace System Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerospace System Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerospace System Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Aerospace System Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Aerospace System Engineer job openings:

Aerospace System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace System Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,083 per year, or $69.3 per hour.

Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer

Fibertek, Inc

Herndon, VA • On-site

$90K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer
Location
Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)
Job Description
At Fibertek, space-based lasers are our specialty - we develop cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind lasers and electro-optical systems for atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and lidar sensors for NASA, DoD, and other aerospace customers. We are looking for future lead systems engineers to join our growing team. Join us, and you will work with our veteran lead systems engineers in requirements flowdowns, interface management, integration & test planning, and multi-disciplinary technical leadership while being mentored in the skills required to lead a program in the future. If you have a broad base of technical knowledge, the communication skills to work with a variety of technical backgrounds, and the desire to learn the arts of systems engineering and technical leadership, then we are eager to hear from you!
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Work in cross-functional teams with program managers, scientists, and engineers to develop new technologies and laser systems for military and space applications
  • Investigate technical issues and support their resolution
  • Develop flowdown of technical requirements and maintain requirement documents and databases
  • Requirement verification and tracking
  • Track and manage technical resources such as mass, volume, and power
  • Develop test plans and participate in test execution
  • Manage documentation of internal and external system interfaces
  • Lead and/or execute special projects at the direction of program leadership Examples may include system trade studies, anomaly resolution, root cause / corrective action assessments, or risk-reduction activities.
  • Prepare technical documentation for internal stakeholders and/or external customers
  • Present at technical reviews

Job Requirements
Experience and Expertise Required:
  • A bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or optics
  • 5 years of relevant experience preferred
  • Experience with the design and testing of engineering or scientific instrumentation
  • Proficient in the fundamental principles of optics
  • Experience with at least one of: spaceflight hardware, electro-optical systems, hardware systems engineering
  • Written and verbal technical communication skills
  • Leadership experience preferred
  • U.S. citizenship is required
  • Hold or can acquire a Secret or Top-Secret Clearance preferred

Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $90,000-$160,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.
Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.
FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.

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