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Payload Integration Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the ...

SES

Senior Engineer, Spacecraft Subsystems, Payload

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Develop, enhance or debug integrated payload and RF monitoring applications and tools required for hardware and performance monitoring, operation automation, resource optimisation and constellation ...

MX1

Senior Engineer, Spacecraft Subsystems, Payload

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Develop, enhance or debug integrated payload and RF monitoring applications and tools required for hardware and performance monitoring, operation automation, resource optimisation and constellation ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition ... SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the ...

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition ... We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Payload Subject Matter Expert to support the NRO GEOINT Directorate ... We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that ...

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All JobsPayload Integration JobsPayload Integration Jobs in Reston, VA

Payload Integration information

See Reston, VA salary details

$22.4K

$122.7K

$177.9K

How much do payload integration jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for payload integration in Reston, VA is $122,748.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,700.00 and $152,400.00 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.

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Payload Integration jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Payload Integration job openings:

Payload Integration jobs near you

Flight to Shipboard Integration Engineer

Washington, DC • On-site

JRC Careers
See more jobs at JRC Careersexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Who We Are (video)
At JRC, we tackle some of the toughest challenges faced by the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies. Our expertise in engineering innovation and semiconductor technologies allows us to deliver mission-critical microelectronics solutions, aerospace systems engineering, and cutting-edge research and development. By joining JRC, you'll be part of a team that supports strategic deterrence and defense missions, playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the United States and its allies.
Join JRC's DIVISION Team!
The Shipboard Integration Engineer works as a key member of the cross-functional integration team responsible for adapting the new flight vehicle for operation from a Virginia Class submarine. In this role, the engineer collaborates with platform, flight vehicle, and test teams to define and mature the physical and electrical interfaces, guide the development of flight-vehicle simulators for HWIL and SWIL testing, and ensure the integrated system can successfully receive and process a valid flight profile (mission plan). The position emphasizes coordinated engineering effort, close communication, and shared technical ownership across government and contractor partners
What You'll Do
  • Serve as critical technical contributor reporting to the LOC Missile System Integration Section Head on interface design between the flight vehicle and the submarine.
  • Supports system integration efforts across fight vehicle, control, fire control, and launch subsystems
  • Oversee the development of flight vehicle simulators including high fidelity guidance test sets (GTS).
  • Serve as the lead liaison between the flight vehicle and shipboard branches.
  • Support Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), digital thread/twin management, and configuration control.
  • Ensure design integrity through requirements traceability, verification, and validation processes.
  • Plan and execute flight system to payload integration activities, ensuring clear hand offs between flight and shipboard integration work streams.
  • Lead hardware in the loop (HWIL) and software in the loop (SWIL) verification of the flight to shipboard interface; define test procedures, success criteria, and analyze results.
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate/enable technical risks/opportunities specific to the payload interface; track mitigation/enabling actions.
  • Provide technical input to Engineering Review Boards (ERB), technical Risk and Opportunities Management Boards (TRMB), and Configuration Control Boards (CCB) as the flight to shipboard interface subject matter expert.
  • Contribute fight system to shipboard interface content to the Systems Engineering Plan (SEP), Mission Assurance Plan, and Test & Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP).
  • Assist in the oversight of Integration and Test efforts for the LOC missile inclusive of hardware, instrumentation, data-collection, post-test analysis, and ship-integration
  • Prepare and present flight to shipboard integration status for major technical and programmatic LOC reviews.
  • Advise and contribute on flight system cost/schedule/technical trade-offs, and its documentation.

What You Bring to the Table
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or related discipline).
  • Minimum 7 years of defense related systems engineering experience on missile or aerospace MDAPs.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience working with Naval shipboard systems or mission planning.
  • Strong communications skills and an ability to communicate complex subject matter to a non-technical
  • Active Secret clearance with eligibility for Top Secret / SCI.

☆Bonus Points
  • Master's degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, or related field.
  • 10 years of defense related systems engineering experience on missile or aerospace MDAPs.
  • Experience working onboard Virginia Class Submarines, with the Tomahawk Weapons System, or with Tomahawk Mission Planning.
  • DAWIA Advanced Certification in Engineering or Program Management.
  • Experience supporting nuclear-capable or strategic missile programs.
  • Sea-Launch Platform Experience such as SSN, SSBN, and SSGN
  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
Additional Information:
This position requires regular interaction with senior DoW, FFRDC, and industry leadership. Travel (~ 50%) to test ranges, contractor facilities, weapons facilities, and government labs is required to support technical and programmatic reviews, integration events, and milestone readiness assessments.
At JRC we offer...
  • A competitive compensation package
  • An exceptional employee benefits program, providing support for our team members' well-being and success
  • The chance to contribute to a high-profile Department of Defense programs and make a positive impact
  • A collaborative work environment where teamwork, creativity, and innovation thrive
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development, helping you advance your career

Apply