1

Payload Integration Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$110K - $155K/yr

Lead integration, test, and verification of the integrated payload with the vehicle* Own the ... Define and manage mechanical, electrical, thermal, data, and RF payload-vehicle interfaces through ...

NY · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Lead integration, test, and verification of the integrated payload with the vehicle * Own the ... Define and manage mechanical, electrical, thermal, data, and RF payload-vehicle interfaces through ...

Develop and manage payload-to-bus interface control documents (ICDs) and verification artifacts. * Execute system-level functional integration, hardware bring-up, and payload performance testing.

Manage payload integration across the full satellite lifecycle. Support initial proposals, design, development, integration, testing, launch and on‑orbit commissioning. * Serve as the primary ...

Showing results 41-60

Payload Integration Manager information

See salary details

$37K

$111.1K

$196K

How much do payload integration manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for payload integration manager in the United States is $111,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payload integration manager?

A Payload Integration Manager is responsible for coordinating the integration of various payloads—such as satellites, scientific instruments, or cargo—onto spacecraft or launch vehicles. They serve as the primary point of contact between payload customers and the launch service provider, ensuring that technical, safety, and scheduling requirements are met. Their work involves managing timelines, overseeing testing and documentation, and resolving any issues that arise during the integration process. This role is critical for ensuring the successful deployment of payloads into space.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payload integration manager?

To thrive as a Payload Integration Manager, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, project management, and systems integration, often supported by a relevant degree and industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, integration planning tools, and industry standards such as NASA or ESA protocols is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure seamless payload integration, minimize risks, and enable successful mission outcomes in complex aerospace environments.

What are some typical challenges a payload integration manager faces when coordinating between multiple stakeholders during a mission?

Payload Integration Managers often navigate complex coordination among satellite operators, launch service providers, and engineering teams to ensure payload compatibility and mission timelines. Balancing diverse technical requirements, managing last-minute changes, and aligning strict safety protocols are common challenges. Effective communication, flexibility, and strong project management skills are essential for keeping integrations on track and addressing issues as they arise. Successfully overcoming these challenges can lead to streamlined launches and strengthened professional relationships across organizations.

What is the difference between Payload Integration Manager vs Payload Systems Engineer?

AspectPayload Integration ManagerPayload Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, project management certificationsBachelor's or master's in engineering, systems or aerospace
Work EnvironmentProject management, coordination, client communicationDesign, analysis, technical development
Industry UsageSpace, defense, aerospace companiesSpacecraft, satellite, missile systems
Common Search IntentManaging payload projects, integration processesTechnical payload system design and analysis

The Payload Integration Manager primarily oversees the coordination and management of payload projects, ensuring successful integration within systems. In contrast, the Payload Systems Engineer focuses on the technical design, analysis, and development of payload systems. Both roles are essential in aerospace projects but differ in responsibilities, with the manager handling project oversight and the engineer concentrating on technical engineering tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Payload Integration Manager jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Payload Integration Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,122 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Engineer Principal - Systems Payload Integration

Westminster, CO • On-site

BAE Systems
National Security and International Affairs • 10K+ employees

$118K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
Join the Systems Engineering team at BAE Systems Inc, Space & Mission Systems (SMS) - a group of motivated problem solvers. We like to have fun and enjoy life - both at work, and in our free time. We're excited about the challenging projects we're involved in and have a commitment to the missions we enable. Offering growth opportunities at all levels of skill and experience, we're looking for leaders and innovators who can continue our reputation for creativity and technical excellence, while helping to define the future of our business.
We're seeking an action-oriented and self-motivated engineer to lead teams through the entire program lifecycle; including concept, design, requirement development, implementation, and launch. This leadership position is for a highly experienced systems engineer who can lead a team by managing the cost, schedule, risk, and systems engineering for a Space-based System.
The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.
What You'll Do:
  • Provide systems engineering leadership of technical teams to develop and implement the Requirements, CONOPS, Architecture, and Integration of Space Missions.
  • Manage and Control the Technical Baseline.
  • Interface with and support the program chief engineer.
  • Plan and manage the cost, schedule, and technical content associated with the systems engineering team.
  • Oversee and Guide the Architecture and Design team in:
    • Developing and utilizing technical trades studies to define the system architecture.
    • Utilizing Model Based Systems Engineering tools and processes to develop and document the system architecture, interfaces, and CONOPS.
    • Trading technical performance options and impacts.
    • Defining System CONOPS.
  • Oversee and Guide the System Traceability team in:
    • Developing the database framework to properly allocate, trace and verify requirements through all mission phases.
    • Allocating and flowing system requirements to lower-level specifications.
    • Developing the overall verification plan and approach.
  • Oversee and Guide the System Integration & Test team in:
    • Defining System Integration & Test Plan.
    • Defining System Simulator requirements.
    • Defining System Test Support and Ground Support Equipment requirements.
  • Mentor other systems engineers assigned to this team.
  • Prepare and give presentations to peers, management, and customers.
  • Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
  • Perform other duties as necessary.
On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions:
  • Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
  • May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
  • May access other facilities in various weather conditions.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills
  • BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 6 or more years related experience.
  • Each higher-level related degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of related experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
  • A current, active Top Secret security clearance is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI.
  • Demonstrated experience in systems engineering processes, including requirements development, requirement allocation, change management, verification and validation - a self-starter that will own this activity.
  • Demonstrated experience leading multi-disciplinary teams including meeting cost, schedule, and performance goals.
  • Experience working with internal Subject Matter Experts to solve integrated technical problems.
  • Customer Relationships: Knowledge of missions and customers across core technologies areas.
  • Superb presentation skills with experience to senior decision making and technical audiences.
#LI-MB2
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Experience with payload integration activities, including payload provider management, giver/receiver lists, action item lists, etc.
  • Test planning and execution experience.
  • Current SAP access.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

What BAE Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


BAE Systems logo

About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US