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Payload Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on ... Generate engineering documentation, test reports, technical briefings, and configuration-controlled ...

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload ... Generate engineering documentation, test reports, technical briefings, and configuration-controlled ...

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on ... Generate engineering documentation, test reports, technical briefings, and configuration-controlled ...

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Payload Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do payload controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for payload controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Payload Controller vs Cargo Coordinator?

AspectPayload ControllerCargo Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires FAA certifications, logistics trainingLogistics or supply chain certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAircraft loading areas, maintenance hangarsWarehouses, cargo terminals, airports
Industry UsageAirlines, cargo carriers, freight companiesAirlines, freight forwarding, shipping companies
Primary FocusLoading, securing, and managing payloads on aircraftManaging overall cargo logistics and documentation

The Payload Controller primarily focuses on the safe loading and securing of payloads on aircraft, ensuring compliance with safety standards. In contrast, the Cargo Coordinator oversees the broader cargo logistics process, including documentation and coordination. Both roles are essential in air freight operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Payload Controller jobs?

For Payload Controller jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Payload Controller job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

DSCS Payload Controllers with Security Clearance

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

Duetix Designs, LLC
See more jobs at Duetix Designs, LLCexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

The DSCS Payload Controller (DPC) will be the primary operator of the Replacement Satellite Configuration Control Element (RSCCE). This position will be based at the Wideband SATCOM Operations Center (WSOC) facility in Fort Meade, Maryland. This WSOC facility is referred to as Meade Operations Center (MOC) and is otherwise known as Detachment B. This position requires an active TS clearance. Duties
- Serve as a primary operator of the RSCCE at the WSOC facility.
- Provide reports to the Crew Chief on all aspects of DSCS payload operations to include monitoring telemetry, commanding the spacecraft, and written reports.
- Interface with users and agencies affected by DSCS operations.
- Interface with 4th Space Operations Squadron (4SOPS). Provide engineering services for transmissions management and control for all commercial frequency spectrums to include all Commercial satellite systems that are in use.
- Must be on site during scheduled shift independent of weather conditions and base closures. Staff will be required to provide coverage for 24/7/365 support at MOC, following a 12-hour shift schedule. Personnel may be required to be on-call with availability after hours (this includes evenings, weekends, and holidays). On-call DPC personnel at Detachment B must return calls within 15 minutes. If directed by Government civilian or military leads, the on-call DPC must be on-site within 2 hours.
- On-call DPC personnel at Detachment B must return calls within 15 minutes. If directed by Government civilian or military leads, DPC contractor must be on-site within 2 hours. Requirements
- 4 years of SATCOM experience, including general knowledge of the DSCS Satellites
- The DPC shall be required to meet the same weapon system certification and recertification requirements as USSF Guardians and civilians.
- The DPC shall certify within 90 days of hire. Recertification is required every 18 months thereafter IAW DAFGM 2023-13-602v1 and DAFI 13-602v2. Training, certification, and recertification will be provided by the 53 SOPS Combat Training Flight (CTF) and/or 8CTS.
- Active DoD TS clearance with SCI eligibility
- Preferred by not required: Experience with Satellite Payload Control and/or DSCS Satellite operations is a plus. Job Type: Full-time Benefits: 401(k)
401(k) 3% Match
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Disability insurance
Health insurance
Paid sick time
Paid time off
Parental leave
Profit sharing
Tuition reimbursement
Experience: SATCOM: 4 years (Required)
DSCS Satellite Operations: 2 years (Preferred)
Security clearance: Top Secret (Required)

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