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Payload Integration Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer As a Systems Engineer, you will design, integrate, and develop space-based optical ... Design, integrate, and develop space-based optical instruments, subsystems, and payloads for ...

Support engineers with instrument development, troubleshooting, testing, and project execution. * Provide technical support for payload integration activities and launch operations as needed.

Support engineers with instrument development, troubleshooting, testing, and project execution. * Provide technical support for payload integration activities and launch operations as needed.

Senior Software Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working ... Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated ...

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Payload Integration Engineer information

What are Payload Integration Engineers?

Payload Integration Engineers are professionals responsible for ensuring that spacecraft payloads, such as satellites or scientific instruments, are properly designed, tested, and integrated with the launch vehicle. They coordinate between payload providers, launch vehicle teams, and mission planners to ensure compatibility and safe installation. Their work includes overseeing mechanical, electrical, and thermal interfaces, performing integration tests, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during the process. These engineers play a crucial role in successful space missions by ensuring payloads are delivered to orbit safely and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payload Integration Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payload Integration Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, experience with systems integration, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry standards such as NASA or ESA requirements, as well as certifications like EIT or PE, are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration and communication skills set top candidates apart. These competencies ensure that complex payloads are integrated safely and efficiently, meeting mission requirements and minimizing risks.

What are some common challenges Payload Integration Engineers face when coordinating with multiple teams during a satellite launch campaign?

Payload Integration Engineers frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams, including spacecraft engineering, mission operations, and launch providers. A common challenge is ensuring all payload requirements are met while aligning schedules and technical specifications across these groups. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to anticipate and resolve integration issues, manage last-minute changes, and ensure safety and mission objectives are upheld. Successfully overcoming these challenges not only ensures a smooth launch but also fosters valuable experience in multidisciplinary teamwork.
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Infographic showing various Payload Integration Engineer job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Senior Systems RF Integration and Test Engineer

Senior Systems RF Integration and Test Engineer

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$111K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 209 rated software companies


Job description

Basic Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology or Mathematics field. Also requires 5+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree plus 3 years of job-related experience. Agile experience preferred.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Department of Defense TS/SCI security clearance is preferred at time of hire. Candidates must be able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance within a reasonable amount of time from date of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:
As a Systems Integration and Test Engineer for the General Dynamics Space Avionics and Payloads team, you'll be a key element of the integration and test team responsible for module and unit level testing space flight payload assemblies that support critical missions and national security. You will also work directly with other engineering disciplines, manufacturing, quality, and program management in a cross-functional environment. A highly qualified candidate will have direct Integration and Test experience with hi-reliability space payloads and/or vehicles.
Experience creating and executing space flight hardware test plans and procedures is highly desired. Hands on experience writing / debugging test scripts for command and control of Special Test Equipment (STE) is highly desired.
Some of the key tasks for this position include:
  • Manage to schedule commitments and need dates by driving daily and weekly execution of test teams
  • Direct and prioritize resources for optimal test flows
  • Establish benchmarks for repeated operations and track performance improvements driving down cost of test
  • Proactively assess maintenance needs for Special Test Equipment and other customer owned test assets to ensure continuous flow of hardware; help establish long term maintenance plan and support customer budget planning for long term On Orbit Sustainment
  • Identify and develop subject matter expertise across payloads
  • Experience with troubleshooting high speed data interfaces, power supply interfaces and payload command & control.

We encourage you to apply if you have any of these preferred skills or experiences: Integration and Test of space flight hardware, and Failure Review Board participation/leadership or any experience with Failure Reporting and Corrective Action systems relevant to electronic systems for space.
What sets you apart:
  • Creative thinker with demonstrated success leading the integration and test life cycle
  • Collaborative team player eager to provide technical leadership and position others for success
  • Exceptional communication, presentation, and influence management skills, with notable record of securing buy-in on concepts and ideas
  • Experienced in the art of negotiation with ability to meet challenging customer requirements with win-win solutions
  • Demonstrated ability to interface with program management and customers
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development for yourself and others
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is Onsite.
While on-site, you will be a part of the Engineering Team located in Scottsdale, Arizona.
#CJ1
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $111,123.00 - USD $123,278.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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