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Communications Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

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Communications Systems Engineer information

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$55K

$109.9K

$180K

How much do communications systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for communications systems engineer in the United States is $109,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by communications systems engineers when integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure?

Communications Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy systems and new technologies, managing potential disruptions during transitions, and meeting tight project deadlines. These professionals must carefully assess system requirements, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and implement thorough testing protocols to minimize risks. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as projects frequently involve collaboration with hardware specialists, software developers, and network administrators to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

What is the difference between Communications Systems Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectCommunications Systems EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field; certifications like CCNA, Cisco, or CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like CCNA, Cisco, or CompTIA
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and maintaining communication systems such as radio, satellite, and fiber opticsDesigning, implementing, and managing computer networks and infrastructure
Industry UsageTelecommunications, defense, aerospace, governmentIT, corporate, service providers, data centers

While both roles require similar certifications and often work in related industries, Communications Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining communication infrastructure, whereas Network Engineers primarily manage computer networks. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communications systems engineer?

To thrive as a Communications Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, digital signal processing, and telecommunications, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, network protocols, RF test equipment, and certifications such as CCNA or similar are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help in collaborating on complex projects and explaining technical concepts to non-experts. These skills are vital to designing, optimizing, and maintaining reliable communication systems critical for modern connectivity.

What does a communications systems engineer do?

A Communications Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that enable the transmission of information, such as voice, data, and video, over various communication networks. They work with technologies like satellite, radio, fiber optics, and wireless systems to ensure reliable and efficient communication. Their role often involves system analysis, troubleshooting, optimization, and integration of hardware and software components to meet specific communication requirements. They may also collaborate with other engineers and stakeholders to develop new technologies or improve existing systems.
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Communications Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communications Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,879 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Peraton

Aurora, CO • On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 224 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities

Ready to make an impact! Join Peraton in advancing national security through innovative Satellite Communications (SATCOM) ground terminal solutions. As a trusted partner in defense and space technologies, Peraton delivers the systems and services that keep our nation connected.

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In this role, you will provide technical expertise in laser-based, free-space optical communications and related technologies, ensure compliance with DoD guidelines, and collaborate across teams to drive project success. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge in free space optical communications systems, with strong analytical and communication skills.

 The Optical Communications SE will be responsible for the following but not limited to:

  • Developing concepts of operations for optical SATCOM ground terminal systems.
  • Reviewing, developing, analyzing, and allocating requirements for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals.
  • Developing and exercising performance models, including link budget analysis, atmospheric turbulence modeling, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques (e.g., adaptive optics, wavefront correction).
  • Providing technical guidance on deploying optical SATCOM systems, including optical ground terminals, wavefront correction, acquisition, tracking, and pointing (ATP) mechanisms, and atmospheric mitigation strategies.
  • Supporting the integration of optical ground terminals into SATCOM architectures, collaborating with engineering teams on system design, testing, and validation. 
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field.
  • Must have the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.
  • Five or more years of professional experience in optical communications, photonics, or related fields, with focus on free-space optical systems and ground terminal applications.
  • Proficient in free-space optical system modeling and link analysis.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex technical tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree (e.g., Master's or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a closely related field is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of optical communication challenges and mitigations, including atmospheric mitigation, pointing, acquisition and tracking, and link analysis.
  • Exposure to SATCOM or defense-related optical communication projects, particularly involving ground terminals.
  • Experience with DoD lifecycle management processes for SATCOM systems from engineering design, integration and test to deployment, operations and sustainment.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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