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Aerospace Systems Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Paramount Panels, Inc.

Be Seen First

Aerospace Electrical Engineer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Our business philosophy stresses quick, professional response to customer needs, through a system ... Our company is an Aerospace parts manufacturer of highly visibly aircraft parts and our finishing ...

Thales

Staff Engineer - Mechanical

Irvine, CA · On-site

Serve as the technical lead for the design, development, integration, qualification, and lifecycle support of complex electro-mechanical aerospace systems, ensuring compliance with customer ...

Thales

Staff Engineer - Mechanical

Irvine, CA · On-site

Serve as the technical lead for the design, development, integration, qualification, and lifecycle support of complex electro-mechanical aerospace systems, ensuring compliance with customer ...

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Intellectt INC

Aerospace Test Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Anaheim, CA Job Summary Seeking an Aerospace Test Engineer with 5+ years of experience in component and system-level testing within the aerospace industry. The ideal candidate will have expertise in ...

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Aerospace Systems information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$48K

$106.5K

$159.6K

How much do aerospace systems jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace systems in Riverside, CA is $106,483.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,300.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are aerospace systems?

Aerospace systems refer to the integrated technologies, components, and processes used in the design, development, testing, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft. These systems include everything from propulsion, navigation, and communication to control systems and avionics. Professionals working in aerospace systems ensure that all components function together efficiently and safely to achieve mission objectives, whether in civil aviation, defense, or space exploration. The field is multidisciplinary, combining elements of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.

Who are the big 4 in aerospace?

The 'Big 4' in aerospace typically refers to Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, which are the largest and most influential companies in the industry. These companies develop commercial and military aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems, often requiring aerospace engineers to have strong technical skills and relevant certifications.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

In aerospace systems, senior engineers such as aerospace engineering managers or lead systems engineers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn salaries around or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost regions or with bonuses and stock options included. These roles typically require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities within large aerospace companies or defense contractors.

What types of projects and teams do Aerospace Systems professionals typically work on?

Aerospace Systems professionals often collaborate on multidisciplinary teams that include engineers, project managers, and technical specialists to develop, test, and integrate complex aerospace components and systems. Projects can range from designing avionics for commercial aircraft to developing control systems for satellites or defense applications. The work environment is usually highly structured, with clear milestones and regular cross-functional meetings to ensure all subsystems work together seamlessly. This collaborative atmosphere provides great exposure to various specialties, making it an excellent role for building expertise and advancing within the aerospace industry.

What are some careers in aerospace?

Careers in aerospace include roles such as aerospace engineer, aircraft technician, flight test engineer, and systems analyst. These positions often require knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and the use of CAD software, with many jobs requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields.

What is the difference between Aerospace Systems vs Aerospace Engineering?

AspectAerospace SystemsAerospace Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering; certifications in systems engineeringBachelor's or higher in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering; advanced degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, integrate, and test aerospace systems in labs or on-site facilitiesDesign, analyze, and develop aerospace components and systems in labs or offices
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace companies, defense contractors, and government agenciesUsed across aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies

While both roles involve aerospace technology, Aerospace Systems focuses on integrating and managing entire systems, whereas Aerospace Engineering emphasizes designing and developing individual aerospace components and structures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, systems integration, and a relevant degree such as aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, MATLAB/Simulink, and industry standards like DO-178C, as well as certifications such as EIT or PE, are often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you excel in multidisciplinary project environments. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, innovative, and reliable aerospace systems that meet regulatory and mission requirements.

What jobs can I get with aerospace?

Aerospace professionals can pursue roles such as aerospace engineer, aircraft technician, systems analyst, flight test engineer, or propulsion engineer. These jobs typically require knowledge of aerodynamics, materials, and engineering software, and may involve working in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, or on aircraft and spacecraft. Certifications like FAA licenses or advanced degrees can enhance job prospects.
Aerospace Systems jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Systems job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,483 per year, or $51.2 per hour.
Specialist, Systems Engineer

Specialist, Systems Engineer

Virgin Galactic, Inc.

Tustin, CA • On-site

$136K - $207K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Virgin Galactic is seeking a Specialist, Systems Engineer to lead the team responsible for designing, developing, and verifying our groundbreaking spaceflight systems. Guided by our values, "Safety Above All", we proactively manage the risks inherent in human spaceflight through our daily actions in the design and assembly efforts. This role combines technical and people leadership - driving engineering excellence while developing and helping support a team of talented systems engineers.
Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and help develop a high-performing systems engineering team.
  • Drive requirements management: capture, decomposition, allocation, traceability, and change control from concept through verification.
  • Oversee system architecture definition, modeling, and interface control to ensure seamless integration across subsystems.
  • Lead verification and validation planning, execution, and documentation in compliance with aerospace standards.
  • Ensure rigorous configuration management, documentation control, and compliance with certification and regulatory requirements.
  • Apply quality engineering practices, including defect tracking, root cause analysis, corrective/preventive actions, and lessons learned.
  • Guide risk management, trade studies, and technical decision-making to optimize safety, reliability, and performance.
  • Ensure adherence to aerospace systems engineering processes (V-model, DO-178/DO-254, ARP4754A) and support major design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
  • Define vision, goals, and expectations while fostering an inclusive, growth-oriented culture.
  • Ensure quality and integrity of engineering deliverables across the system lifecycle.
  • Collaborate closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Technical Leadership.
  • Lead staffing, budgets, schedules, and project plans.

Required Skills and Experience
  • Typically requires a bachelor's degree in STEM with 12 or more years of systems engineering experience; a master's degree with 8 years of experience; or a PhD with 5 years of experience.
  • Strong background in requirements definition, integration, and verification for aerospace systems (avionics, structures, mechanical, electrical, or interiors).
  • Knowledge of systems engineering processes (V-diagram), requirements management tools, and milestone reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities.

Preffered Skills and Experience
  • Advanced degree in Systems Engineering.
  • Experience with DOORS, CAMEO, ENOVIA, SysML, MBSE, or similar tools.
  • INCOSE CSEP certification.
  • Familiarity with aerospace quality and certification standards (AS9100, DO-178/254, ARP4754A, etc.).
  • Strong systems architecting skills and big-picture mindset.
  • Positive, proactive, and adaptable in dynamic environments.
  • Commitment to mentoring and challenging the status quo.

#LI-AB1
The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $136,063.00-$207,596.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits
Who We Are
Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles .
Export Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here .
EEO Statement
Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Drug Free Workplace
Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace. All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.
Phoenix Employment Requirements
For individuals seeking employment at our Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge. This includes initial and annual mandatory background checks that are governed by TSA, and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.

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