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Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vantor is hiring a Principal Satellite Systems Engineer to join our SpaceWRX team to execute space projects starting from customer needs to design, develop, and deliver the world's most capable earth ...

The Senior Satellite Systems Engineer leads and supports engineering and technical development projects with satellite development projects and supporting operations after launch. Supervisory ...

Senior Systems Satellite Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$121K - $166K/yr

The Senior Satellite Systems Engineer leads and supports engineering and technical development projects with satellite development projects and supporting operations after launch. Supervisory ...

The Junior Satellite Engineer serves as a liaison between the Satellite Engineering Team and the Operations Control Center. Supervisory Responsibilities: None Duties/Responsibilities: * Understand ...

Job #219453 Chipton-Ross is seeking multiple Satellite Systems Engineer 3's for an opportunity in Dulles, VA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) * Bachelor's degree with 5 years of ...

The Junior Satellite Engineer serves as a liaison between the Satellite Engineering Team and the Operations Control Center. Supervisory Responsibilities: None Duties/Responsibilities: * Understand ...

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Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do freelance satellite systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance satellite systems engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance satellite systems engineer?

A Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer is a professional who works independently, rather than as a full-time employee, to design, develop, and maintain satellite systems and related technology. They may be hired by aerospace companies, government agencies, or research organizations on a contract basis to work on specific satellite projects or solve technical challenges. Their responsibilities often include systems integration, testing, troubleshooting, and ensuring that satellite components work seamlessly together. Freelancers in this field typically bring specialized expertise and flexibility to a wide range of projects, from communications satellites to earth observation systems.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, satellite communications, and systems integration, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, STK (Systems Tool Kit), RF simulation software, and certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or specialized satellite operator credentials are often required. Excellent problem-solving, independent project management, and effective client communication skills set top freelancers apart. These abilities are crucial for delivering reliable satellite solutions, meeting project specifications, and maintaining client trust in a dynamic and technically demanding field.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance satellite systems engineers when working with multiple clients?

Freelance satellite systems engineers often encounter challenges such as managing overlapping project timelines, adapting to different clients' technical standards, and ensuring secure communication across various platforms. Working remotely or with dispersed teams can also require strong self-discipline and proactive communication to stay aligned with project goals. Additionally, freelancers must stay up-to-date with evolving satellite technologies and regulatory requirements, which can vary between projects and clients.

What is the difference between Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer vs Satellite Communications Technician?

AspectFreelance Satellite Systems EngineerSatellite Communications Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in satellite systemsTechnical diploma, certifications in satellite equipment
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, consulting, remote and on-siteInstallation, maintenance, troubleshooting on-site
Employer & IndustryFreelance/consulting firms, satellite service providersTelecom companies, satellite service providers

Freelance Satellite Systems Engineers focus on designing and consulting on satellite systems, often working remotely or on project basis. Satellite Communications Technicians handle installation and maintenance of satellite equipment on-site. Both roles require technical knowledge but differ in scope, responsibilities, and work environment.

More about Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Systems Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Satellite Systems Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance Satellite 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 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Principal Satellite Systems Engineer

Maxar

Westminster, CO

$135K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Vantor is forging the new frontier of spatial intelligence, helping decision makers and operators navigate what's happening now and shape what's coming next. Vantor is a place for problem solvers, changemakers, and go-getters-where people are working together to help our customers see the world differently, and in doing so, be seen differently. Come be part of a mission, not just a job, where you can: Shape your own future, build the next big thing, and change the world.

To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. Person, defined as a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, Asylee, or Refugee.

Export Control/ITAR: Certain roles may be subject to U.S. export control laws, requiring U.S. person status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Please review the job details below.

Vantor is hiring a Principal Satellite Systems Engineer to join our SpaceWRX team to execute space projects starting from customer needs to design, develop, and deliver the world's most capable earth observation systems. We are seeking a proven engineering leader to join our team in Westminster, CO.

In this role, you will:

  • Lead vendor interactions for satellite bus procurement, working with a small team of aerospace experts to review designs and manage issues
  • Write and oversee execution of statements of work and bus requirements
  • Review ICDs as well as payload integration and test plans
  • Review vendor-submitted processes, design reviews, analysis packages, and test reports to sell of mission requirements
  • Conduct and evaluate responses to RFIs and RFPs with satellite component vendors

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, aerospace, physics, or a related field of study
  • 6-12 years of experience in aerospace systems engineering
  • End-to-end aerospace program system engineering experience from initial architecture through assembly, integration and test to on-orbit operations
  • Experience designing and qualifying hardware and software for low-earth orbit space environments: structural, thermal, radiation, and EMI/EMC in particular
  • Experience owning the design, analysis and test of a satellite bus or whole satellite system
  • Experience writing, decomposing and verifying requirements on a satellite program
  • Subcontractor oversight experience: Environmental test oversight, test report reviewing, etc.
  • Strong understanding of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) space environments (radiation, thermal, orbital mechanics, etc.) and their impacts on system performance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working an Earth Observation satellite program
  • Experience as a satellite or bus lead systems engineer
  • Experience in RF systems design and analysis: space radios, transmitters and transceivers
  • Experience working with space-based memory and mission data recorders
  • Experience working with precision timing systems
  • Experience withencryption/decryptionhardware devices and/or IP cores
  • Familiarity with software architecture, satellite bus flight software in particular
  • Experience integrating AI-enabled edge-compute solutions in space
  • Experience integrating optical crosslink terminal solutions in space
  • Ability to obtain a US Government security clearance at the TS/SCI level

#LI-MG1

Pay Transparency: To support pay transparency, Vantor includes salary ranges in all U.S. job postings. Starting pay for this role will fall within the listed range and will be based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, location, and market conditions. Candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the role should not expect to receive compensation at the top of the range. The listed range reflects the expected pay for this position, and final offers will be determined based on each candidate's experience, expertise, and alignment with the role.

The base pay for this position within Colorado is: $135,000.00 - $180,000.00 - $198,000.00 annually.

For all other states, we use geographic cost of labor as an input to develop market-driven ranges for our roles, and as such, each location where we hire may have a different range.

Benefits: Vantor offers a competitive total rewards package that goes beyond the standard, including a robust 401(k) with company match, mental health resources, and unique perks like student loan repayment assistance, adoption reimbursement and pet insurance to support all aspects of your life. You can find more information on our benefits at:https://www.Vantor.com/careers

Additionally, this position is incentive eligible with a target based on contribution, company performance, and/or individual results achieved; the specific incentive plan and target amount will be determined based on the role and breadth of contributions.

The application window is three days from the date the job is posted and will remain posted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire. If the job is reposted regardless of reason, it will remain posted three days from the date the job is reposted and will remain reposted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire.

The date of posting can be found on Vantor's Career page at the top of each job posting.

To apply, submit your application via Vantor's Career page.

EEO Policy: Vantor is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We believe in fostering an environment where all team members feel respected, valued, and encouraged to share their ideas. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.