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Intern Satellite Systems Engineer Jobs in Springfield, VA

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems--both on‑orbit and in development. You will ...

Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation ... This position is for a Comm Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and ...

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... ORA_ON_SITE Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national ...

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems-both on-orbit and in development. You will support ...

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$160K - $200K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... of satellite system development and acquisitions in a government/contractor team environment ...

Satellite Systems Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

The Satellite Operations Engineer at Lynk is a technical systems engineering position pivotal to ensuring the operational integrity and safety of the constellation of LEO satellites. Your primary ...

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... of satellite system development and acquisitions in a government/contractor team environment ...

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation ... This position is for a Space Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and ...

Operations Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... ORA_ON_SITE Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national ...

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... ORA_ON_SITE Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national ...

Embedded Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer must possess and have successfully demonstrated satellite engineering experience. Requires excellent problem-solving, interpersonal, and oral and written ...

Showing results 41-60

Intern Satellite Systems Engineer information

See Springfield, VA salary details

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How much do intern satellite systems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern satellite systems engineer in Springfield, VA is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an intern satellite systems engineer do?

An Intern Satellite Systems Engineer assists in the design, integration, and testing of satellite systems under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities may include supporting subsystem analysis, preparing technical documentation, and participating in system-level simulations. Interns gain hands-on experience with satellite technologies, learn industry standards, and contribute to various stages of a satellite project. This role provides valuable exposure to both hardware and software aspects of satellite engineering, often involving collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern satellite systems engineer?

To thrive as an Intern Satellite Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or electrical engineering, with coursework in satellite communications, orbital mechanics, and systems engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like MATLAB, STK, and CAD software, as well as exposure to simulation and testing environments, is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in collaborative, multidisciplinary projects. These skills ensure that interns can contribute meaningfully to satellite design, analysis, and integration tasks in a fast-paced engineering environment.

What types of projects or responsibilities can an intern satellite systems engineer expect during their internship?

As an Intern Satellite Systems Engineer, you'll typically assist with a variety of hands-on and analytical tasks such as supporting system integration, performing subsystem testing, and helping with requirements analysis. Interns often work closely with senior engineers, gaining exposure to the full lifecycle of satellite missions, from initial design to ground testing and operations. You may also participate in team meetings, contribute to technical documentation, and collaborate with cross-functional teams like software, RF, and mechanical engineering. This role provides an excellent opportunity to develop both technical and project management skills in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

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

AspectIntern Satellite Systems EngineerIntern Satellite Communications Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineeringOften pursuing or holding a degree in telecommunications, electronics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and develop satellite systems in labs or office settingsInstall, maintain, and troubleshoot satellite communication equipment in field or technical settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aerospace and satellite manufacturing companiesCommon in telecommunications providers and satellite service companies

The Intern Satellite Systems Engineer focuses on designing and developing satellite systems, requiring engineering knowledge. In contrast, the Intern Satellite Communications Technician handles installation and maintenance of satellite equipment. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Intern Satellite Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Intern Satellite Systems Engineer job openings:

Payload Systems Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Job ID: 2613887

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-08-04

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is seeking a Payload Systems Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program at the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.

As the Payload Systems Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems—both on‑orbit and in development. You will support the Payload Division SETA team in advising the government on technical, programmatic, and acquisition activities across EO and SAR payload portfolios. This role requires familiarity with NRO mission structures, acquisition processes, and satellite system lifecycles.

Job Responsibilities to include:

  • Advise the PROSPO Payload Division Chief on all aspects of payload development and acquisition.
  • Support the SPO in planning, execution, monitoring, and oversight of multiple EO and SAR payload systems in development and acquisition.
  • Assist the Government in developing CONOPS and employment approaches for EO and SAR systems.
  • Assist the Government in developing requirement documents, statements of work (SOWs), and other contract documents during program acquisition and contract action preparation.
  • Provide oversight of acquisitions to ensure end‑to‑end system closure and satisfaction of mission need.
  • Draft technical evaluations and serve as a technical advisor during source selections.
  • Provide technical and programmatic assessments of contractor designs at major milestone reviews to evaluate progress, risks, issues, and ability to meet mission requirements.
  • Participate in program reviews and technical interchange meetings between developers and the COTR.
  • Review CDRL deliverables for technical accuracy, completeness, and sufficiency to meet program objectives.
  • Provide technical support to Government customer activities and programmatic processes.
  • Develop documents and briefings to communicate study results, technical findings, and program status to Government and industry stakeholders.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

  • Bachelors in Engineering or Similar Field and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience; PhD and 0 years related experience.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI with current Polygraph.
  • Experience with satellite and/or satellite payload system requirement development, design, manufacturing, and test.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting satellite and/or payload design reviews, including SRR, SDR, PDR, CDR, TRR, MRR, PSR, and related milestone reviews.
  • Experience supporting the acquisition of multiple payload systems.
  • Experience developing requirement documents, statements of work, and other contract documents for major acquisition programs.
  • Proven ability to assess contractor designs, identify risks, and evaluate technical performance against mission requirements.
  • Strong interpersonal, leadership, team‑building, and problem‑solving skills with demonstrated effectiveness in a government/contractor environment.
  • Working knowledge of the NRO organization, major acquisition processes, and satellite systems.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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