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Field Service Engineer Top Secret Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GNC ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE As a guidance, navigation, and control mission design engineer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing physics-based system-of-systems simulation ...

GNC ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE As a guidance, navigation, and control mission design engineer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing physics-based system-of-systems simulation ...

GNC ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE As a guidance, navigation, and control mission design engineer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing physics-based system-of-systems simulation ...

OR

$112K - $196K/yr

Developing frameworks used by other engineers to build applications and services * Developing ... Bachelor's degree in related field (Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, etc.) or ...

Field Service Engineer

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Hiring at the top end of the range would not be typical, to allow for future meaningful salary growth in the position. Field Service Engineer Benefits: Recognized with a Top Employee Benefit Plan ...

Field Service Engineer

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Hiring at the top end of the range would not be typical, to allow for future meaningful salary growth in the position. Field Service Engineer Benefits: Recognized with a Top Employee Benefit Plan ...

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Field Service Engineer Top Secret information

See salary details

$36.5K

$71.2K

$105.5K

How much do field service engineer top secret jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for field service engineer top secret in the United States is $71,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Field Service Engineer Top Secret, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Field Service Engineer Top Secret, you need a solid background in engineering or electronics, hands-on troubleshooting experience, and a current Top Secret security clearance. Familiarity with technical tools such as diagnostic software, specialized test equipment, and secure communication systems is often required, along with relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+ or OEM-specific credentials. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital for success in high-security environments. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and confidential operation and maintenance of mission-critical systems.

What is a Field Service Engineer Top Secret?

A Field Service Engineer Top Secret is a specialized technician responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing complex equipment or systems, typically for government or defense clients. The 'Top Secret' designation means the engineer holds a high-level security clearance, allowing them to work on classified projects or sensitive locations. These professionals often travel to client sites, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure that all service work complies with strict security protocols. Their expertise is crucial in supporting mission-critical systems while safeguarding national security interests.

What is the difference between Field Service Engineer Top Secret vs Field Service Engineer?

AspectField Service Engineer Top SecretField Service Engineer
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, technical certificationsTechnical certifications, relevant industry experience
Work EnvironmentSecure facilities, on-site client locationsClient sites, service centers, on-site repairs
Employer & Industry UsageDefense, government agenciesTelecommunications, manufacturing, IT
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Field Service Engineer Top Secret and a Field Service Engineer lies in security clearance requirements and work environment. The Top Secret role involves handling sensitive information within secure facilities, often for government or defense projects, whereas the standard Field Service Engineer works in more general environments like client sites or service centers. Both roles require technical certifications and industry experience, but the Top Secret position demands additional security clearance.

What are some common challenges Field Service Engineers with Top Secret clearance face when working on client sites?

Field Service Engineers with Top Secret clearance often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict security protocols while troubleshooting sensitive equipment, managing access to classified areas, and maintaining confidentiality at all times. They may also need to coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including security personnel and government officials, which can require flexibility and strong communication skills. Additionally, travel to remote or secure locations and adapting to rapidly changing schedules are common aspects of the role.
Infographic showing various Field Service Engineer Top Secret job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,220 per year, or $34.2 per hour.
GNC Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

GNC Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

GNC ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE

As a guidance, navigation, and control mission design engineer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing physics-based system-of-systems simulation software, capable of capturing complex interactions between a wide variety of space vehicles, ground systems, and environments. You will design CONOPS and drive program-level requirements for large multi-vehicle missions. This is a high-impact role in which you will work across engineering groups, taking extreme ownership of critical trades and design decisions. We are looking for engineers who enjoy solving complex problems, can work effectively in a fast-paced environment, and are passionate about advancing the space industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Build software tools and construct scenarios to perform system-of-systems performance analysis of architectures that include satellites, sensors, communications, and ground infrastructure
  • Conduct analyses and recommend designs that balance competing requirements
  • Develop 6-DOF dynamics simulation models used for GNC systems analysis and validation
  • Develop physics-based models for simulation of RF communications and sensor systems
  • Assess feasibility of various designs in support of architecture definition
  • Create a library of space and ground systems models, for inclusion in the simulation environment
  • Act as a cross-disciplinary expert, ensuring that the system can meet mission objectives
  • Communicate technical capabilities and analyses with internal stakeholders and external customers
  • Play an integral part of a small team that will continuously iterate on mission design through all phases of the program

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or physics
  • 1+ years of professional experience with modeling and simulation
  • Software development experience in C++ or Python

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance
  • Demonstrated experience with writing scalable software in a team setting
  • Strong modern software design and development skills
  • Professional programming experience in modern C++ (C++14 and above)
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Demonstrated experience in developing state estimation algorithms
  • Demonstrated experience in RF communication
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and presenting compelling analyses of complex trades
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
  • Demonstrated experience in debugging, performance optimization, and test automation
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.
  • Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:          
GNC Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year 
GNC Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year       

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


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