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Ground Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR, Inc.

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Title: Ground 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 ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer to work on complex projects crucial to our national security objectives. They will provide Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory ...

KBR

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Title: Ground 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 ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer to work on complex projects crucial to our national security objectives. They will provide Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The Ground Systems Engineer - Factory Liaison provides Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) support to a Government Program Office Contracting Officer's Technical ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer to work on complex projects crucial to our national security objectives. They will provide Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The Ground Systems Engineer - Factory Liaison provides Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) support to a Government Program Office Contracting Officer's Technical ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description The Ground Systems Engineer - Factory Liaison provides Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) support to a Government Program Office Contracting Officer's Technical ...

Umbra

Ground Systems Engineer & Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

$195 - $235/hr

About the Job The Ground Systems Engineer & Architect is responsible for defining, designing, integrating, and validating secure, mission-critical ground systems supporting advanced space, ISR, and ...

Umbra

Ground Systems Engineer & Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$252K/yr

About the Job The Ground Systems Engineer & Architect is responsible for defining, designing, integrating, and validating secure, mission-critical ground systems supporting advanced space, ISR, and ...

Umbra

Ground Systems Engineer & Architect

Arlington, VA · On-site

$279K/yr

About the Job The Ground Systems Engineer & Architect is responsible for defining, designing, integrating, and validating secure, mission-critical ground systems supporting advanced space, ISR, and ...

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Ground Systems Engineer information

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$110.2K

$131.5K

How much do ground systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for ground systems engineer in the United States is $110,228.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,500.00 and $114,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ground systems engineer?

Ground Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the infrastructure and hardware on Earth that supports space missions and satellite operations. Their work involves creating and managing systems that communicate with spacecraft, such as tracking stations, control centers, and data processing facilities. They ensure reliable communication between ground facilities and spacecraft, troubleshoot technical issues, and often collaborate with other engineering teams. Ground Systems Engineers play a crucial role in the success of satellite launches, ongoing mission operations, and data retrieval from space assets.

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

To thrive as a Ground Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering, computer science or electrical engineering, and experience with satellite or aerospace ground systems. Familiarity with technical tools such as Linux/UNIX environments, scripting languages, network protocols, and commonly required certifications like Security+ or CompTIA Network+ is important. Strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure ground systems are designed, integrated, and maintained effectively, supporting reliable space mission operations.

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

Ground Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining minimal downtime during upgrades, and addressing cybersecurity concerns. Balancing the need for innovation with the reliability requirements of mission-critical ground operations can be demanding. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, network specialists, and mission operators—is essential to ensure smooth implementation and ongoing system performance.

What is the difference between Ground Systems Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectGround Systems EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications in systems or satellite technologyBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentGround-based facilities, control centers, labsSatellite design, testing, and integration facilities
Industry UsageSpace agencies, defense, telecommunicationsSatellite manufacturing, space agencies, defense
Job FocusDesign, operate, and maintain ground control systemsDesign, develop, and test satellite systems

Both roles require engineering expertise and often similar certifications. Ground Systems Engineers focus on ground control and support infrastructure, while Satellite Systems Engineers work on satellite design and development. They collaborate closely in space projects but have distinct technical focuses.

Is a ground systems engineer a high paying job?

Ground systems engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in designing and maintaining satellite and ground-based communication systems. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications, but the role is generally considered well-paying within the engineering field. Advanced knowledge of RF systems, software, and hardware can further increase earning potential.
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Ground Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ground 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 $110,228 per year, or $53 per hour.

Ground Systems Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 224 rated it services

Job description


SAIC is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer to support the LANDMARK AOS program, a large SETA contract supporting the customer's Ground Enterprise Directorate (GED) and its end to end system acquisition mission in Chantilly, VA. This role sits within the Chief Architect's Office, where you will help guide the evolution of the customer's ground architecture and ensure major system acquisitions deliver against mission needs.
As the Ground Systems Engineer you will track deliveries, performance requirements, and integration activities across three major system acquisitions spanning five system program offices, providing the technical and acquisition insight needed to keep complex efforts aligned with enterprise-level architectural direction. You will have the opportunity to shape the implementation of Digital Engineering and support the transformation of GED's development as a leader in Digital Engineering and Agile principles.
Key Responsibilities to include:
  • Draft and deliver Communication Plans to foster implementation of enhanced Systems Engineering processes using a Digital Engineering foundation
  • Align modernized Systems Engineering principles with DE tools and Agile principles
  • Define, develop, and implement ground system architectures that enable advanced mission capabilities.
  • Analyze system requirements, shape technical solutions, and deliver clear architectural recommendations to government stakeholders.
  • Assess mission needs, transition paths, and future-state architectural options to guide enterprise evolution.
  • Partner with government technical and contracting teams to craft acquisition strategies and documentation that drive effective program execution.
  • Develop and review acquisition artifacts, including SOWs, Justifications for Approval, and Government Cost Estimates.
  • Support prototype acquisition planning, solicitations, evaluations, and awards across mechanisms such as IDIQ task orders.
  • Coordinate with System Program Office Thread Leads and program managers to maintain alignment across acquisition and engineering activities.
  • Participate in Agile teams and provide technical direction on engineering tools, processes, and digital solutions.
  • Offer informed feedback on GED Agile, Digital Engineering, and DevSecOps policies to improve governance suitability and consistency of adoption.
  • Inform internal and external partners on upcoming ground deliveries, architectural changes, and impacts to existing capabilities.
  • Communicate technical acquisition plans, program status, and key decisions to senior government leaders and executives.
  • Apply expertise in a major intelligence discipline (e.g., SIGINT, GEOINT) to shape and evaluate program requirements for mission success.

Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field (e.g., Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics) or equivalent; and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience; PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. Relevant experience to be substituted in lieu of degree.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI with Poly
  • 6+ years of Ground Systems experience
  • Experience with system engineering processes and demonstrable expertise developing ground architectures for mission-critical systems.
  • Background supporting or leveraging GEOINT or SIGINT intelligence discipline.
  • Practical understanding of Agile practices within system acquisition environments.
  • Demonstrated expertise in government acquisition strategies, documentation development, and full lifecycle program management.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to brief government stakeholders at all levels

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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