The Entry-Level Test Engineer will support system integration, basic testing, and verification activities for hypersonic test vehicles and related subsystems at the Indiana Payload Integration ...
The Entry-Level Test Engineer will support system integration, basic testing, and verification activities for hypersonic test vehicles and related subsystems at the Indiana Payload Integration ...
The Entry-Level Test Engineer will support system integration, basic testing, and verification activities for hypersonic test vehicles and related subsystems at the Indiana Payload Integration ...
The Entry-Level Test Engineer will support system integration, basic testing, and verification activities for hypersonic test vehicles and related subsystems at the Indiana Payload Integration ...
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility. * Create and maintain workflows that support ...
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility. * Create and maintain workflows that support ...
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility. Create and maintain workflows that support ...
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility. Create and maintain workflows that support ...
Test Engineer
Bloomfield, IN · On-site
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility Requirements: * Candidate must be a US Citizen ...
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Test Engineer
Bloomfield, IN · On-site
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility Requirements: * Candidate must be a US Citizen ...
Test Engineer
Bloomfield, IN · On-site
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility Requirements: * Candidate must be a US Citizen ...
Test Engineer
Bloomfield, IN · On-site
Conduct site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility Requirements: * Candidate must be a US Citizen ...
Applies system integration and test engineering standards, principles, theories, concepts and techniques to complex payloads and space vehicles * Specifies requirements, architects I&T approaches ...
Applies system integration and test engineering standards, principles, theories, concepts and techniques to complex payloads and space vehicles * Specifies requirements, architects I&T approaches ...
Scientist, Chief Engineer - Mission Payloads (Optical Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($50K max)
Fort Wayne, IN · On-site
$153K - $284K/yr
L3Harris in Wilmington, MA specializes in space-based, visible and IR payload systems with integrated electromechanical devices used for micro radian level line of sight pointing and focus control.
Scientist, Chief Engineer - Mission Payloads (Optical Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($50K max)
Fort Wayne, IN · On-site
$153K - $284K/yr
L3Harris in Wilmington, MA specializes in space-based, visible and IR payload systems with integrated electromechanical devices used for micro radian level line of sight pointing and focus control.
L3Harris in Wilmington, MA specializes in space-based, visible and IR payload systems with integrated electromechanical devices used for micro radian level line of sight pointing and focus control.
L3Harris in Wilmington, MA specializes in space-based, visible and IR payload systems with integrated electromechanical devices used for micro radian level line of sight pointing and focus control.
... integration into flight hardware, IRAD development and future pursuits. Essential Functions: * Provide technical leadership for team of mechanical engineers in the areas of payload mechanical ...
... integration into flight hardware, IRAD development and future pursuits. Essential Functions: * Provide technical leadership for team of mechanical engineers in the areas of payload mechanical ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Space Vehicle Design Technical Manager)
Fort Wayne, IN · On-site
$102K - $141K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting RF-based space payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space Vehicles carrying ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Space Vehicle Design Technical Manager)
Fort Wayne, IN · On-site
$102K - $141K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting RF-based space payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space Vehicles carrying ...
Applies system integration and test engineering standards, principles, theories, concepts and techniques to complex payloads and space vehicles * Specifies requirements, architects I&T approaches ...
Applies system integration and test engineering standards, principles, theories, concepts and techniques to complex payloads and space vehicles * Specifies requirements, architects I&T approaches ...
Experience architecting, analyzing, developing, and integrating end to end systems in areas such as EO/IR, RF, or space payload and spacecraft bus subsystems * Ability to work ITAR or EAR projects
Experience architecting, analyzing, developing, and integrating end to end systems in areas such as EO/IR, RF, or space payload and spacecraft bus subsystems * Ability to work ITAR or EAR projects
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Technical Manager - Mission Networking Systems and Cyber)
Fort Wayne, IN · Remote
$102K - $141K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting space-based remote sensing payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Technical Manager - Mission Networking Systems and Cyber)
Fort Wayne, IN · Remote
$102K - $141K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting space-based remote sensing payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Technical Manager - Test and Data Networks)
Fort Wayne, IN · Remote
$102K - $141K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting space-based remote sensing payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Technical Manager - Test and Data Networks)
Fort Wayne, IN · Remote
$102K - $141K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting space-based remote sensing payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space ...
Lead, Mechanical Engineering
$109K - $131K/yr
... integration into flight hardware, IRAD development and future pursuits. Essential Functions: * Provide technical leadership for team of mechanical engineers in the areas of payload mechanical ...
Lead, Mechanical Engineering
$109K - $131K/yr
... integration into flight hardware, IRAD development and future pursuits. Essential Functions: * Provide technical leadership for team of mechanical engineers in the areas of payload mechanical ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Space Vehicle Design Technical Manager)
Fort Wayne, IN · On-site
$112K - $154K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting RF-based space payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space Vehicles carrying ...
Senior Manager, Systems Engineering (Space Vehicle Design Technical Manager)
Fort Wayne, IN · On-site
$112K - $154K/yr
Provide design engineering staffing and labor planning for programs, pursuits, and internal projects supporting RF-based space payloads and systems as well as fully integrated Space Vehicles carrying ...
Mid-Level Optical Engineer
$80K - $120K/yr
Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
Mid-Level Optical Engineer
$80K - $120K/yr
Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
Mid-Level Optical Engineer
Odon, IN · On-site
$80K - $120K/yr
Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
Mid-Level Optical Engineer
Odon, IN · On-site
$80K - $120K/yr
Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
Mid-Level Optical Engineer
Odon, IN · On-site
$80K - $120K/yr
Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
Mid-Level Optical Engineer
Odon, IN · On-site
$80K - $120K/yr
Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
Payload Integration information
What are some common challenges faced by payload integration specialists during satellite mission preparation?
What are Payload Integration jobs?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payload Integration Engineer, and why are they important?
What is the difference between Payload Integration vs Payload Specialist?
| Aspect | Payload Integration | Payload Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Engineering degrees, technical certifications | Technical background, training in payload handling |
| Work Environment | Design labs, testing facilities, launch sites | Launch vehicles, spacecraft, mission sites |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Aerospace companies, government agencies | NASA, aerospace contractors, space agencies |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
Payload Integration involves designing, testing, and ensuring payloads are compatible with launch vehicles, focusing on engineering and technical processes. Payload Specialist, on the other hand, is a role that involves operating and managing payloads during space missions, often requiring specialized training for onboard handling. While both roles work closely with payloads, Integration is more technical and preparatory, whereas Specialist is operational during missions.

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating
7.4
Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
The Entry-Level Test Engineer will support system integration, basic testing, and verification activities for hypersonic test vehicles and related subsystems at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility (IPIF). Working under the guidance of senior Test Engineers, this role assists in developing test procedures, preparing test configurations, performing hands?on hardware integration, and documenting test results. The Entry-Level Test Engineer will collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to ensure readiness for integration and testing activities, maintain documentation accuracy, resolve basic discrepancies, and follow established procedures. This position provides early-career engineers with structured growth, technical mentorship, and exposure to complex aerospace test operations.
LOCATION
- Crane, IN
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
PRIMARY:
- Assist in developing and documenting test workflows, documentation, and in the execution of procedures and other testing activities.
- Support system integration activities, including mechanical fit checks, connector verification, and basic electrical/telemetry checkout tasks.
- Participate in test execution, including setup, data collection, and observation of results.
- Manage test schedules in coordination with fellow Test Engineers and area managers.
- Support site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility.
- Coordinate with contractors, sub-contractors, experiment and project teams to facilitate the testing, integration, and execution of test vehicles.
- Create and maintain workflows that support efficient testing operations.
SECONDARY:
- Review and contribute to Lessons Learned databases to support continuous improvement across missions
- Assist in the generation and management of discrepancy reports and ensure timely tracking, traceability, documentation and closure.
- Assist with configuration management of test documents, hardware status, and integration records.
- Support internal and external audits and quality inspections.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
Required:
- Some experience (internship, school project, or 0-1 year in industry) developing or following test procedures.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in hands-on hardware work.
- Basic familiarity with test equipment, electrical connectors, instrumentation, or telemetry systems (can be academic experience).
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and document work accurately.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to obtain or already have an active DoD SECRET clearance.
Preferred:
- Prior exposure to aerospace, defense, or high-performance systems (internship, project team, lab environment, etc.).
- Hands-on integration experience with hardware and/or software systems
- Familiarity with environmental or hardware integration testing (thermal, vibration, avionics checkout, etc.).
- Familiarity with writing reports, documenting test results, or tracking technical issues.
- Familiar with rocket-launched or high-performance systems.
- Experience with engineering tools such as MATLAB, Python, and CAD software.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
- 0-1 year of relevant experience (internships, co-ops, and academic project teams accepted) OR 3-5 years of relevant experience in lieu of degree.
Travel
Up to 30%
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The role operates in office settings, assembly/integration settings, and field operation/test range environments. Office work includes being seated or standing at a desk, operating a computer and reading a monitor. Assembly/integration work includes extended standing/walking; use of hand tools and test equipment; repetitive tasks; reaching/stooping; occasional lifting/moving of equipment or materials; adherence to safety protocols and required PPE.
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About Kratos Defense
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
National security and international affairs
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
San Diego, CA, US
Year founded
1994