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Payload Integration Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Spacecraft Payload SME

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Description SAIC has an opening for a Spacecraft Payload SME Engineer with an understanding of ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

Rocket Lab

Senior Vehicle Integration Engineer

Wattsville, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their ... SENIOR VEHICLE INTEGRATION ENGINEER The Neutron Vehicle Integration Engineer is responsible for ...

Rocket Lab

Senior Vehicle Integration Engineer

Wattsville, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their ... SENIOR VEHICLE INTEGRATION ENGINEER The Neutron Vehicle Integration Engineer is responsible for ...

Heven AeroTech

UAS Composites Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Heven AeroTech

UAS Composites Engineer

Sterling, VA

$89K - $117K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Heven AeroTech

UAS Composites Engineer

Sterling, VA

$89K - $117K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Solvarus

Mission Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$106K - $143K/yr

The successful MSE&Integration Engineer will support the Mission Integration efforts supporting a ... payload planning, scheduling, and tasking. * Determine where gaps exist and perform trades to ...

Solvarus

Mission Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

The successful MSE&Integration Engineer will support the Mission Integration efforts supporting a ... payload planning, scheduling, and tasking. * Determine where gaps exist and perform trades to ...

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Payload Integration Engineer information

What is a payload integration engineer?

A payload integration engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and implementing the integration of payloads—such as sensors, instruments, or equipment—into aerospace or defense systems. They work closely with systems engineers and use tools like CAD software and testing facilities to ensure payloads function correctly within the overall system, often requiring knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. The role typically involves troubleshooting, documentation, and adherence to safety and quality standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior Payload Integration Engineers in aerospace, defense, or high-tech industries can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in large companies or executive roles.

How much does a payload systems engineer make at NASA?

A payload systems engineer at NASA typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the role often requires knowledge of systems integration, testing, and aerospace standards.

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.

What does a payload engineer do?

A payload integration engineer designs, tests, and manages the installation of payloads such as scientific instruments, sensors, or communication equipment onto spacecraft, aircraft, or other vehicles. They ensure payloads meet technical specifications, are properly integrated with the host system, and function correctly in the operational environment, often using tools like CAD software and following safety standards. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of aerospace or related engineering fields.
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Payload Integration Engineer jobs near you
Spacecraft Payload SME

Spacecraft Payload SME

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 206 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
SAIC has an opening for a Spacecraft Payload SME Engineer with an understanding of Digital Receiver Processors. The individual selected will provide subject matter expertise to support customer decisions with respect to contractors' development of spacecraft RF collection payloads and overall mission capabilities. Individual will perform the following duties.
  • Responsible for overseeing vendor development of RF antenna and receiver payload path to flight as the primary technical expert.
  • Responsible for supporting end-to-end payload development to include:
    • Analysis of alternatives
    • Requirements generation, evaluation and compliance assessments
    • Concept design evaluation
    • Critical technology element (CTE) identification and assessments; Technology readiness assessments (TRA); manufacturing readiness assessments (MRA).
    • Concept of Operations (CONOPS) development
    • Oversight of payload integration
    • Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
  • Responsible for assessing proposed payload design updates and understanding all performance and spacecraft impacts due to these updates.
  • Responsible for performing assessments of risk reduction plans associated with improving the maturity of payload design and hardware.
  • Responsible for working with contacts at prime and subcontractors to ensure work is on schedule and progressing.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor in Electrical Engineering or a technical field such as Physics, Math, or Astronautics with 9 years or more of experience; Masters with 7 years of experience or PhD and 4 years of experience.
  • Experience with Satellite RF systems
  • Ability to describe technical issues with designing SIGINT satellites.
  • Clearly demonstrate a working knowledge of the NRO satellite acquisition processes.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of orbital mechanics and environmental effects on a SIGINT satellite.
  • Proven ability to effectively work with a large team of Government, FFRDC, and SETA contractors as well as Developers.
  • Ability to convey complex technical and programmatic issues concisely to senior management

Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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