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Junior Space Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$117K - $175K/yr

Imagery Programs Division's (IPD) Proliferated Systems (PS) Office is looking for a Space Systems Engineer (Project Engineer/Senior Project Engineer - Multi-Disciplinary Engineering) with Systems ...

$117K - $175K/yr

Imagery Programs Division's (IPD) Proliferated Systems (PS) Office is looking for a Space Systems Engineer (Project Engineer/Senior Project Engineer - Multi-Disciplinary Engineering) with Systems ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Principal Space Systems Engineer to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) directorates. Position is available in El Segundo, California . Typical ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Principal Space Systems Engineer to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) directorates. Position is available in El Segundo, California . Typical ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Principal Space Systems Engineer to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) directorates. Position is available in El Segundo, California . Typical ...

BryceTech is seeking a Space Systems Engineer with experience in satellite systems and their integration with ground architectures. The ideal candidate will understand the satellite acquisition ...

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Junior Space Systems Engineer information

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$24K

$85.4K

$147.5K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior space systems engineer in the United States is $85,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $87,500.00 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 are hiring for Junior Space Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Junior Space Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Space Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Space Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Junior Space Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Space Systems Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Junior Space Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,409 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Space Systems Engineer

$117K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The National Systems Group serves as the technical advisor to the Intelligence Community and its mission partners involved in the collection and distribution of national and tactical intelligence, including electronics programs, advanced technologies, ground and communications, imagery programs, and systems engineering and launch.

Imagery Programs Division's (IPD) Proliferated Systems (PS) Office is looking for a Space Systems Engineer (Project Engineer/Senior Project Engineer - Multi-Disciplinary Engineering) with Systems Engineering, Risk Management, System Verification, and Threat knowledge and experience to support next-generation major system acquisitions across multiple phases of the Systems Engineering process. This role will directly support the customer Chief Engineer by organizing and leading Aerospace domain expert support of requirements development, interface development, assembly, integration, test, sell-off, and risk management. This Systems Engineer will also guide teams to address risks and issues in testing, and coordinate with counterparts across Enterprise interfaces to ensure mission success.

This is a full-time position based in Chantilly, VA, which requires 100% onsite work.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Coordinate Aerospace technical support for the vehicle unique portions of an integrated ground control and processing system.
  • Supporting Space Systems development, test, requirement verification and Enterprise sell-off
  • Providing technical leadership to Aerospace domain expert engagement in Enterprise sell-off activities
  • Collaborating with Aerospace counterparts external to the program office across the Enterprise
  • Coordinating Aerospace team support of threat-related customer activities
  • Leading non-conformance, anomaly, and major technical issue response teams during Space, Ground, and Enterprise-related customer activities
  • Coordinating Systems Engineering support for milestone reviews
  • Providing on-site Aerospace presence and communicating with the customer, SETA, and contractors
  • Collaborating with SETA and government customer counterparts to meet mission needs

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Project Engineer - Multi-Disciplinary Engineering:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical/STEM field
  • 6 years of responsible professional engineering experience, including multi-disciplinary systems engineering and/or program management environments
  • Experience with development, test, and implementation of Space systems
  • Prior engineering leadership or project management experience
  • Willing to support frequent travel (typically once or twice per month)
  • This position requires a current and active TS/SSBI/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the above, the Senior Project Engineer - Multi-Disciplinary Engineering includes:

  • 12 or more years of responsible professional engineering experience, including multi-disciplinary systems engineering and/or program management environments
  • Proven experience leading technical support and analysis efforts across different technical groups and program offices

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Advanced degree in System Engineering or related technical field
  • Experience working Space systems development and across the Enterprise for National Security Space customers
  • Technical knowledge of the current threat environment
  • Understanding of and experience working with a matrixed engineering organization.
  • Ability to function optimally, efficiently, and collaboratively with limited supervision
  • Strong customer focused demeanor with outstanding skills in coordinating exchanges between technical staff and the customer.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$117,300.00 - $175,900.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailat peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.