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Mission Systems Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scout Space

Senior Mission Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$108K - $148K/yr

As a Senior Mission Systems Engineer , you will play a crucial role in the CONOPs definition, design, development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, test, and operations of our advanced electro ...

Viasat, Inc.

Space Mission Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

The role of a Space Mission Systems Engineer within our S3 group is to bridge all the areas of a space mission - space, ground, launch, and support segments. Space Systems engineers in the group will ...

Viasat, Inc.

Space Mission Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ

$149K - $224K/yr

The role of a Space Mission Systems Engineer within our S3 group is to bridge all the areas of a space mission - space, ground, launch, and support segments. Space Systems engineers in the group will ...

Saalex

Mission Systems Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD

$100K - $135K/yr

Greenfield Engineering, a Saalex Company is seeking Mission Systems Test Engineer in Patuxent River, MD to support the Presidential Helicopter Software Support Activity and related military avionics ...

Viasat, Inc.

Space Mission Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

The role of a Space Mission Systems Engineer within our S3 group is to bridge all the areas of a space mission - space, ground, launch, and support segments. Space Systems engineers in the group will ...

Nightwing

Senior Mission / Systems Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most ...

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How much do mission systems jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for mission systems in the United States is $102,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Mission Systems roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Mission Systems often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology requirements, integrating complex hardware and software, and ensuring system reliability under strict deadlines. Navigating these challenges typically involves strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, operators, and project managers. Staying current with industry advancements and participating in ongoing training can also help address technical hurdles. Effective communication and adaptability are key to successfully managing the dynamic environment typical of Mission Systems projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mission Systems Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mission Systems Specialist, you need a strong background in avionics, systems integration, and electronics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree or military training. Familiarity with mission planning software, radar and sensor systems, and industry-standard tools like MATLAB or Simulink is often required. Problem-solving, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure the reliable operation and optimization of mission-critical systems, directly impacting mission success and safety.

What are Mission Systems?

Mission Systems refer to the integrated technologies, equipment, and software that support the core objectives of a specific mission, typically in defense, aerospace, or security contexts. These systems can include communications, navigation, surveillance, data processing, and weapons control components. Professionals working in Mission Systems design, develop, test, and maintain these complex systems to ensure they meet operational requirements. Their work is critical to the success and safety of missions in both military and civilian sectors.
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What job categories do people searching Mission Systems jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mission Systems jobs are:
Mission Systems jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mission Systems job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,067 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Senior Mission Systems Engineer

Scout Space

Reston, VA • On-site, Remote

$108K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Scout Space is building a new way to see and operate in space: with a new paradigm of data empowering every satellite to make space safer. We are a rapidly-growing team; we are deploying real solutions to orbit over the next 2 years; and our work will transform the face of spaceflight. We are looking for people that bring excitement and energy to our organization, are curious and eager to learn, and want to help drive our programs forward.
As a Senior Mission Systems Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the CONOPs definition, design, development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, test, and operations of our advanced electro-optical payloads for space missions. Your expertise will be essential in ensuring the successful integration and performance of system-level components within our space payloads.
Responsibilities:
  • Work with customers and bus manufacturers to define CONOPs and mission requirements for spaceborne optical payloads
  • Support optical payload design concepts from whiteboard to launch, including development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, test, and operations
  • Lead and design environmental test campaigns
  • Develop and manage program schedules, budgets, and documentation
  • Manage subcontractors and suppliers for optical payload systems
  • Perform hands-on lab assembly, integration, and testing as needed
  • Regularly contribute to proposal efforts

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum of 5+ years of experience in mission systems engineering, satellite development, space domain awareness (SDA), or related aerospace fields.
  • Proven experience leading end-to-end mission development, including system design, integration, and test.
  • Deep understanding of space environment constraints, satellite operations, and mission planning.
  • Familiarity with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) space components, spaceflight hardware development, and payload integration.
  • Strong knowledge of requirements development, interface control documentation (ICDs), and configuration management practices.
  • Demonstrated leadership in technical program execution, including the ability to balance technical excellence with programmatic constraints.
  • Experience as a mission systems engineer or similar for a satellite launch, including pre-launch system verification, launch vehicle integration, and post-launch operational readiness.
  • Experience working with customers and partners for mission definition
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts and technical information clearly and concisely.
  • Must be eligible to hold a clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's or Doctorate degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Familiarity with U.S. Government space programs, Department of Defense (DoD) contracts, and/or NASA mission development lifecycle.
  • Experience with satellite ground systems, command and control (C2), and mission operations center (MOC) development.
  • Proficiency in mission analysis tools (e.g., STK, MATLAB, Python) and engineering design tools (e.g., Cameo, or similar).
  • Experience in the development of space-based optical payloads, SDA payloads, or ISAM technologies
  • Knowledge of agile development methodologies and experience with digital engineering/digital twin environments.
  • Strong technical writing and presentation skills, including experience developing technical documentation, white papers, and customer deliverables.

Benefits:
  • Open Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • 401k Matching
  • Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dependent Care FSA
  • Wellness Stipend
  • Work From Home Stipend
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-term Disability plans
  • Commuter Benefit
  • Education Reimbursement

Don't fulfill all the qualifications listed above? If you still feel like you might be a good fit, please feel free to APPLY ANYWAY. We believe in a well-rounded team, and this sometimes means that someone with out-of-context knowledge can contribute just as well as someone with very explicit alignment with our capabilities needs stated.
Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote fashion. Our preference is for candidates in or around this area (or willing to relocate) as we scale our facilities and engineering team to provide more opportunities to work and collaborate in-person.
This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.
Scout Space Inc. does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. To conform to US Government space technology export regulations, applicants must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, a protected individual as defined by 8 USC 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorization from the US Department of State.
We're Proud to Prioritize Mental Health. Scout Space has been recognized with the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America. This certification reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a supportive environment where mental well-being is valued, protected, and openly talked about. We know that when people feel seen and supported, great work happens, and that is the kind of culture we are building here at Scout Space.
Compensation is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Summary pay range: $120,000 - $200,000

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