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Payload Integration Jobs in Orem, UT (NOW HIRING)

Program Planner

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$32.50 - $43/hr

Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components ...

Manage payload integration, telemetry systems, and remote GCS (Ground Control Station) operation. * Use companion tools like Mission Planner, QGroundControl, or custom GCS interfaces. * Experience ...

Payload Integration information

See Orem, UT salary details

$18.7K

$102.6K

$148.7K

How much do payload integration jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for payload integration in Orem, UT is $102,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,100.00 and $127,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payload integration?

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 skills and qualifications are needed for payload integration?

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 are 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 is the difference between Payload Integration vs Payload Specialist?

AspectPayload IntegrationPayload Specialist
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, technical certificationsTechnical background, training in payload handling
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, testing facilities, launch sitesLaunch vehicles, spacecraft, mission sites
Employer & Industry UsageAerospace companies, government agenciesNASA, aerospace contractors, space agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

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.

Program Planner

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

Karman Space & Defense
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$32.50 - $43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supports manufacturing planning activities by interpreting engineered prints and engineering databases to create manufacturing plans.

  • Coordinates with program managers, engineers, manufacturing, quality, and procurement teams to incorporate requirements and ensure alignment with production needs.

  • Prepares purchase requisitions, maintains product bills of material (BOMs), and monitors supplier delivery schedules.


Karman Space & Defense rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next‑generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role supports manufacturing planning activities across diverse products, including machined parts, composites, engineering jobs, and production assemblies. You will collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, quality, purchasing, and program management teams to ensure complete and accurate planning that drives efficient production and timely procurement. Your work directly supports program execution by ensuring materials, process requirements, and supplier inputs are aligned with production needs.

This role is part of our Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains.  Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.

Responsibilities

  • Interprets engineered prints and engineering databases to create complete and accurate manufacturing plans using EPICOR Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
  • Coordinates with program managers and engineers to incorporate product requirements into planning.
  • Works with manufacturing and production leads to include fabrication and assembly processes in plans.
  • Collaborates with quality engineering and quality assurance to integrate quality requirements into planning.
  • Prepares purchase requisitions and creates purchase suggestions based on program needs.
  • Maintains product bills of material (BOMs) and uses them to guide purchasing actions.
  • Solicits supplier quotes and monitors delivery dates and on-time status for manufactured and purchased materials.
  • Builds strong working relationships with manufacturing teams and suppliers to resolve issues and maintain schedule alignment.
  • Keeps program managers informed of changes or deviations from the plan.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate’s degree in a related discipline.
  • Three or more years of applicable experience.
  • One or more years of experience with EPICOR ERP software.

Special Mentions

  • Occasional travel 0–10% of the time.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Company‑paid life and AD &D insurance
  • Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.


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