The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Payload Integration Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$107K - $144K/yr
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Payload Integration Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$107K - $144K/yr
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Payload Integration Engineer
$106K - $143K/yr
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Payload Integration Engineer
$106K - $143K/yr
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Payload Integration Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$106K - $143K/yr
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Payload Integration Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$106K - $143K/yr
The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the ...
Senior Payload Systems Engineer
$144K - $201K/yr
We are seeking a Senior Payload Integration or Systems Engineer to manage the integration of optical terminals on spacecraft. This individual will apply customer management skills and systems ...
Senior Payload Systems Engineer
$144K - $201K/yr
We are seeking a Senior Payload Integration or Systems Engineer to manage the integration of optical terminals on spacecraft. This individual will apply customer management skills and systems ...
Oversight of payload integration * Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
Oversight of payload integration * Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
Oversight of payload integration * Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
Oversight of payload integration * Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
RF Payload Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
Provide expert advice, technical evaluations and alternative approaches as subject matter expert and technical advisor to a government customer on SIGINT payload design, integration, and performance
RF Payload Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
Provide expert advice, technical evaluations and alternative approaches as subject matter expert and technical advisor to a government customer on SIGINT payload design, integration, and performance
Spacecraft Payload SME
Chantilly, VA · On-site
Oversight of payload integration * Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
Spacecraft Payload SME
Chantilly, VA · On-site
Oversight of payload integration * Transition to operations to include: development; operator training; payload initialization and checkout; on-orbit operations and end of life operations
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of missioncritical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of missioncritical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Space Payload RF Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Are you ready to design, develop, integrate, and test critical RF payload systems that will fly on the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave ...
Satellite Payload Systems Engineer, Lead
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Experience in the design, development, integration, and verification of payloads for spaceflight systems * Experience with space vehicle design and manufacture practices, payload integration, and ...
Satellite Payload Systems Engineer, Lead
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$99K - $225K/yr
Experience in the design, development, integration, and verification of payloads for spaceflight systems * Experience with space vehicle design and manufacture practices, payload integration, and ...
Satellite Payload Systems Engineer, Lead
$99K - $225K/yr
Experience in the design, development, integration, and verification of payloads for spaceflight systems * Experience with space vehicle design and manufacture practices, payload integration, and ...
Satellite Payload Systems Engineer, Lead
$99K - $225K/yr
Experience in the design, development, integration, and verification of payloads for spaceflight systems * Experience with space vehicle design and manufacture practices, payload integration, and ...
Payload Integration information
What are some common challenges faced by payload integration specialists during satellite mission preparation?
Payload integration specialists often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multiple teams (engineering, testing, and mission operations) to ensure compatibility and safety of payloads. Managing tight schedules and adapting to last-minute design changes or unexpected technical issues are also frequent hurdles. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to navigate these complexities and ensure the payload is successfully integrated and ready for launch.
What are Payload Integration jobs?
Payload Integration jobs involve coordinating and managing the process of integrating scientific instruments, satellites, or other cargo (the 'payload') with a launch vehicle, such as a rocket or spacecraft. Professionals in this role work closely with engineering teams, customers, and mission planners to ensure that payloads are properly installed, tested, and meet all safety and interface requirements before launch. They play a critical role in making sure that payloads are delivered into space safely and function as intended. This work requires strong technical knowledge, project management skills, and attention to detail.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payload Integration Engineer, and why are they important?
To excel as a Payload Integration Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with payload design and integration processes. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry standards like NASA or ESA protocols, along with relevant certifications, is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating across multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure that payloads are safely, efficiently, and accurately integrated into launch vehicles, minimizing risks and maximizing mission success.
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.
What are popular job titles related to Payload Integration jobs in Virginia? For Payload Integration jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payload Integration jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Payload Integration jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Payload Integration jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Payload Integration job openings:
SAIC rating
7.8
Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
70th of 203 rated it services
Job description
Job ID: 2612013
Location: Chantilly, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-04-29
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. Our team is developing cutting edge technologies that directly support critical Department of War priorities, combining both proven and first-of-their-kind capabilities that have never been applied in space. Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and direct access to senior Government decisionmakers, enabling us to move quickly and execute aggressive schedules using the most innovative contracting strategies available.
SAIC is seeking self-directed leaders who skillfully navigate ambiguity, solve complex challenges, and bring diverse expertise to a dynamic environment focused on delivering capability rapidly. Success here requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high impact mission. Candidates experienced as USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF (SSC), NRO, or SDA, applying the full range of the systems engineering discipline (e.g., Requirements Development, Architecture, SE milestones: SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.), and/or DAWIA/PMI Program Management will be especially well-prepared to excel.
Job Description:
This position is for a Payload Integration Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system. In addition, the selected candidate will provide engineering expertise to oversee the payload integration activities (both technical and programmatic), track integration efforts, assess risk, and lead and support impact studies and trades.
Role Responsibilities:
- Support the System Program Office (SPO) in a technical capacity for acquisition planning, design, integration of payloads associated with space systems
- Provide programmatic and technical support on payload trades and integration activities to support the fielding of a space system
- Support Payload interface compatibility analyses
- Perform system analysis and interface definition and management/ execution
- Participate in studies and system trades for enhanced capabilities
- Participate in payload integration risk reduction planning and test execution
- Develop plans to on-ramp new mission capabilities
- Assist in the development of Interface Control Documents (ICDs); defining the technical, electrical, and mechanical boundaries between satellites and launch vehicles
- Support verification, validation, and test planning
- Provide technical and programmatic assessments of contractor designs at major milestone reviews to assess progress, risks and issues, and the ability to achieve mission requirements
- Provide technical support to Government customer activities and programmatic processes.
- Develop documents and briefings to communicate work or study status and brief Government and industry as required.
Qualifications
- TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience
System integration and test experience with space systems
Knowledge and application of Systems Engineering processes and functions.
Prior experience with satellite systems design, requirements, development, integration and test.
Experience with the Intelligence Community or the Department of Defense Satellite Program Office best practices.
Proven experience with satellite system requirement development, design, manufacturing, and test.
Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.
Ability to facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
- Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.
- Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
- Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
- Active TS/SCI with current Poly Required.
- Previous SAP experience desired.
About Science Applications International
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