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Airborne Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.    The Advanced Airborne RF Sensors team within the Space & Airborne Systems Engineering and Test Capability ...

New

The Advanced Airborne RF Sensors team within the Space & Airborne Systems Engineering and Test Capability (SE&TC) Center is seeking a Senior RF Systems Engineer to support integration and test of ...

New

... with airborne systems and components, including avionics, electrical, and mechanical systems ... Engineering Process a plus - Experience using tools such as Doors, Doors Next, Model Based Systems ...

Sentar is seeking a Systems Engineer in San Diego, CA supporting Airborne Networking and Advanced Development Technical Support. **This position is pre award and is contingent on contract award.

Sentar is seeking a Systems Engineer in San Diego, CA supporting Airborne Networking and Advanced Development Technical Support. **This position is pre award and is contingent on contract award.

Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.    The Advanced Airborne RF Sensors team within the Space & Airborne Systems Engineering and Test Capability ...

New

Sentar is seeking a Systems Engineer in San Diego, CA supporting Airborne Networking and Advanced Development Technical Support. **This position is pre award and is contingent on contract award.

Sr. Systems Engineer, Prime Air

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

This role will be responsible for ensuring high standards for certifying safety-critical software and hardware in airborne systems, working closely with design engineering staff powering a flywheel ...

The Strategic Communications Team is seeking an Systems Engineer committed to creating creative and cost-effective solutions for our ground and airborne systems. As part of Collins Aerospace, Mission ...

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Airborne Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do airborne systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for airborne systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the main challenges Airborne Systems Engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing aircraft platforms?

Airborne Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new technologies and legacy avionics systems, adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards, and managing the limitations of space and weight within aircraft. Integrating new systems also requires thorough testing and validation, often under tight project timelines. Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, hardware engineers, and flight test crews—is essential to address these technical and logistical hurdles.

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

To thrive as an Airborne Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, systems integration, and avionics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, CAD software, and certifications like FAA or EASA requirements are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively and manage complex, multidisciplinary projects. These skills are vital to ensure safe, reliable airborne systems that meet rigorous industry and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Airborne Systems Engineer vs Avionics Engineer?

AspectAirborne Systems EngineerAvionics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering; certifications like INCOSE or FAA-relatedBachelor's in electrical, electronics, or aerospace engineering; certifications in avionics systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test airborne systems in labs or on aircraftDesign and troubleshoot avionics systems within aircraft or labs
Industry UsageMilitary, commercial, and defense sectors focusing on integrated airborne systemsAircraft manufacturers, defense contractors, and aerospace companies

While both roles involve aerospace and aircraft systems, Airborne Systems Engineers focus on the overall integration of airborne systems, whereas Avionics Engineers specialize in electronic avionics systems. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and specific expertise.

What does an Airborne Systems Engineer do?

An Airborne Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, integrating, and maintaining electronic and mechanical systems that operate on aircraft. This includes avionics, communication systems, radar, navigation, and other onboard technologies. They ensure that these systems meet safety and regulatory standards, work effectively in the airborne environment, and support the mission or commercial objectives of the aircraft. Airborne Systems Engineers often work closely with other engineering disciplines and may be involved in testing, troubleshooting, and certifying new technologies for flight.
More about Airborne Systems Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Airborne Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Airborne Systems Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Airborne Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
ESS Terminals Senior Systems Engineer

ESS Terminals Senior Systems Engineer

KBR, Inc.

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$162K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 368 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
ESS Terminals Senior Systems Engineer
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
KBR is seeing an ESS Terminals Senior Systems Engineer to join our team in El Segundo, CA.
The ESS Terminals Senior Systems Engineer will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and maintaining complex infrastructure, platform, and software systems that supports National Leadership Authority capabilities. This position requires a deep understanding of system architecture, Protected SATCOM Terminal configurations, and security protocols to ensure robust, scalable, and secure environments. The engineer will collaborate closely with outside organizations to analyze system requirements and oversee development, delivery, and implementation of those requirements. Additionally, the role involves leading technical projects and contributing to the development of best practices and documentation. An ideal candidate would be someone with experience in working with Protected SATCOM Terminals - either operationally or with prior experience on the engineering and integration side.
You will join a Systems Engineering team defining the next generation of space communication systems supporting Space Force Military Satellite Communications. You will support Systems Engineering & Integration activities in a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment. You will interface and collaborate with SE&I team members, contractors, government civilians and members of the USSF to provide acquisition management development and support.
The MILSATCOM Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (MSEIT) effort provides leading edge Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) for the Space Force's Space Systems Command. We support the Space Force's acquisition of state-of-the-art Military Satellite Communications systems, providing global secure protected communications for our nation's warfighters. We seek technical individuals who will thrive in a highly collaborative work environment of small teams, using the most modern tools and methodologies to tackle the challenges of integrating complex space and ground communications systems.
Why Join Us?
Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.
Work Environment:
Location: On-site
Travel Requirements: Minimal
Working Hours: Standard
Qualifications:
Required:
  • Active DoD Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or related technical field
  • 12+ years' engineering experience
  • 5+ years' experience in Systems Engineering, such as requirements and technical baseline development, test planning and integration, verification, and validation
  • Experience developing or managing requirements or Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for complex systems
  • Strong interpersonal skills, communication (oral and written), and presentation skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
  • Due to security requirements, work is required to be on-site in a secure facility

Desired:
  • Active Top Secret clearance
  • Master's degree in technical field, such as engineering, mathematics, physics, or computer science, or related technical field
  • Experience with MILSATCOM systems, such as AEHF, PTS, EPS, WGS, and FAB-T terminal programs
  • Experience working with military and DoD civilians
  • Experience with ground and airborne systems, such as terminals and networks
  • Knowledge and experience in Agile Development and collaboration tools (Jira/Confluence)
  • Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, INCOSE CSEP or ESEP)

Basic Compensation: $162,000 to $203,000 in El Segundo, California
The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.
Ready to Make a Difference? If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team.
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998