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Junior Space Systems Engineer Jobs in Addison, IL

Lead Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145 - $170/hr

Overview Auria seeks a Lead Systems Engineer to support projects with the US Space Force. This role is remote with a location preference for Colorado Springs, CO. The team works on a broad range of ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer, Chicago IL This Senior Systems Engineer position is fully onsite ... Lead/mentor junior team members. - Take ownership of and leading projects from start to finish ...

Senior Trading Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Senior Trading Systems Engineer, Chicago, IL This Senior Trading Systems Engineer position is 100 ... Lead/mentor junior team members. - Take ownership of and leading projects from start to finish ...

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Junior Space Systems Engineer information

See Addison, IL salary details

$24K

$85.6K

$147.8K

How much do junior space systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior space systems engineer in Addison, IL is $85,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,600.00 and $87,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior space systems engineer do?

A Junior Space Systems Engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and integration of spacecraft and satellite systems. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to analyze system requirements, support technical documentation, and troubleshoot issues during the development process. Their responsibilities often include collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and learning about various subsystems such as propulsion, communications, and control. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those early in their engineering careers who are passionate about space technology.

What is the difference between Junior Space Systems Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectJunior Space Systems EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or master's degree in engineering; certifications like PMP or satellite-specific training
Work EnvironmentSpace agencies, aerospace companies, research labsSatellite manufacturing firms, aerospace companies, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in space mission development and researchFocused on satellite design, deployment, and maintenance

The Junior Space Systems Engineer and Satellite Systems Engineer roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often within aerospace and space agencies. The main difference lies in focus: the Junior Space Systems Engineer typically supports broader space systems projects, while the Satellite Systems Engineer specializes in satellite-specific systems. Both roles require technical skills and certifications relevant to space technology, but their day-to-day tasks and project focus differ based on their specialization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior space systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Space Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, MATLAB, and systems engineering tools, as well as knowledge of industry standards such as NASA or ESA requirements, is important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure the ability to design, analyze, and integrate complex systems critical to successful space missions.

What are some common challenges a junior space systems engineer might face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

As a Junior Space Systems Engineer, you may often collaborate with specialists in areas like propulsion, avionics, and software, which can present challenges in understanding and integrating diverse technical requirements. Balancing competing priorities and ensuring clear communication between disciplines is critical. Early in your career, you might also find it demanding to keep up with the fast-paced environment and the need to rapidly learn new concepts. However, these experiences build valuable skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and systems thinking that are essential for advancement.
What cities near Addison, IL are hiring for Junior Space Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Addison, IL with the most Junior Space Systems Engineer job openings:

Space Engineer/Principal Engineer Systems

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, but they're also making history.

The Mission and Payload Programs organization within the Northrop Grumman Space Systems pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!

Our Systems Engineering Integration & Test (SEIT) organization within Space Superiority Division provides complex subsystems and defense electronics. This position can be hired as a Systems Engineer (level 2) or a Principal Systems Engineer (level 3) based on their qualifications in one or more of the following 3 disciplines: (1) Systems Design (2) Modeling & Simulation, and (3) Integration & Test.

This position is part of the Space Sectors' Eastern Region SEIT Engineering Organization located at Rolling Meadows, IL.

Systems Design Tasking can include:

Creating and refining Model Based System Engineering products (System behavioral models, Use Case realizations, State Machines, etc.)

Generation and update of specifications in DOORS, including requirements traceability and dxl script development

Capability assessments to predict requirement compliance

Functional algorithm development

Risk assessment and burn down of mitigation steps

Generating and reporting system Technical Performance Measures

Presenting analysis that shapes the system design and obtaining end-customer buy-in

Interface development and documentation

Modeling & Simulation Tasking can include:

Software development of physics-based in-house models and algorithms

Perform analysis and trades of product line architectures using analytical models and mission level simulations

Functional algorithm development

Authoring technical documentation such as white papers, proposal technical volumes, program milestone briefings (i.e. SRR, PDR, CDR,...), systems engineering design documentation

Presenting technical analysis to multiple stakeholders

Creating and refining Model Based Systems Engineering Products (System behavioral models, Use Case realizations, State Machines, etc.)

Integration & Test Tasking can include:

Systems: sensors/antennas, transmitters/receivers, optics, and associated lab equipment

Full life cycle experience developing, integrating, and deploying space systems

Experience with real-time signal processing

Knowledge of MATLAB, Python, or other scripting languages

Working knowledge of Robot Framework, or other test automation frameworks

Working knowledge of DOORS and ClearCase/ClearQuest

Experience creating and executing integration & test and design verification test plans and procedures

Experience performing system verification and validation

Agile development experience a plus

Supporting Systems Integration Labs (SIL) testing

Ability and willingness to travel

Basic Qualifications:

Systems Engineer: BS + 2 years of exp; MS + 0 years of exp

Principal Systems Engineer: BS + 5 years of exp: MS + 3 years of exp; PhD + 0 years of exp

BS and/or MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related technical degree.

Educational background or experience with signal processing and algorithm development

Proficient with MATLAB or Python object-oriented programing languages

U.S. citizen with ability to obtain U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearance at time of application

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrate history of strong organization and coordination skills (working with cross-functional teams).

Knowledge of the space domain (e.g. orbital mechanics, remote sensing, etc.)

Strong RF domain background (link budget, waveform modulation schemes, transceiver technologies, antennas)

Integration and test experience; familiarity with signal generators and spectral analyzers

Active TS/SCI with adjudicated polygraph is preferred

Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939