The Principal Mission Payload Systems Engineer will contribute to architecture trade studies ... Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems * Must have ...
The Principal Mission Payload Systems Engineer will contribute to architecture trade studies ... Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems * Must have ...
As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly ... We are seeking an innovative electro-optic Space Data Network Payload Systems Engineer with a ...
As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly ... We are seeking an innovative electro-optic Space Data Network Payload Systems Engineer with a ...
Optical Systems Engineer
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$139K - $179K/yr
By operating our own vehicles and manifesting regular rides to space, K2 is uniquely positioned to design, test, and deploy-at-scale ambitious optical payloads in MEO, GEO, cis-lunar, and deep space ...
Quick apply
Optical Systems Engineer
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$139K - $179K/yr
By operating our own vehicles and manifesting regular rides to space, K2 is uniquely positioned to design, test, and deploy-at-scale ambitious optical payloads in MEO, GEO, cis-lunar, and deep space ...
Senior Payload Integration Engineer with Security Clearance
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$146K - $194K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... The RF Payload Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that all technical objectives are met ...
Senior Payload Integration Engineer with Security Clearance
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$146K - $194K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... The RF Payload Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that all technical objectives are met ...
Senior Principal Optical Payload Systems Engineer
Redondo Beach, CA · On-site
$132K - $183K/yr
Leading payload hardware development for space and ground systems integration. * Managing ... Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems * Must have ...
Senior Principal Optical Payload Systems Engineer
Redondo Beach, CA · On-site
$132K - $183K/yr
Leading payload hardware development for space and ground systems integration. * Managing ... Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems * Must have ...
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Evolved Strategic SATCOM (ESS) Sr. Space Systems Lead Payload En with Security Clearance
El Segundo, CA · On-site
As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly ... The ESS Program seeks a Sr. Space Systems Lead Payload Engineer to serve as the technical leader ...
Evolved Strategic SATCOM (ESS) Sr. Space Systems Lead Payload En with Security Clearance
El Segundo, CA · On-site
As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly ... The ESS Program seeks a Sr. Space Systems Lead Payload Engineer to serve as the technical leader ...
Senior Manufacturing Engineer (Payloads)
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$111K - $152K/yr
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Senior Manufacturing Engineer (Payloads)
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$111K - $152K/yr
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Leading payload hardware development for space and ground systems integration. * Managing ... Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems * Must have ...
Leading payload hardware development for space and ground systems integration. * Managing ... Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems * Must have ...
Senior Spacecraft Software Test Engineer
Redondo Beach, CA · On-site
$127K - $168K/yr
Impulse Space develops spacecraft and propulsion systems that provide transportation and mobility services for payloads operating in space. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Redondo ...
Senior Spacecraft Software Test Engineer
Redondo Beach, CA · On-site
$127K - $168K/yr
Impulse Space develops spacecraft and propulsion systems that provide transportation and mobility services for payloads operating in space. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Redondo ...
You will build and grow a team of payload engineers responsible for individual pharmaceutical ... Experience developing or operating hardware for pharmaceutical, bioprocess, or sterile/cleanroom ...
You will build and grow a team of payload engineers responsible for individual pharmaceutical ... Experience developing or operating hardware for pharmaceutical, bioprocess, or sterile/cleanroom ...
Drone Operator
$18.25 - $20.25/hr
Fury enables human operators to command fleets of robots through natural language, and empowers ... Conduct pre-flight inspections, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot hardware and payload ...
Drone Operator
$18.25 - $20.25/hr
Fury enables human operators to command fleets of robots through natural language, and empowers ... Conduct pre-flight inspections, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot hardware and payload ...
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Varda's W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses. From ...
Lead Thermal Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$120K - $159K/yr
Define thermal requirements, margins, and operating limits for avionics, batteries, payloads, and structural components * Support environmental testing, including thermal vacuum, altitude simulation ...
Quick apply
Lead Thermal Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$120K - $159K/yr
Define thermal requirements, margins, and operating limits for avionics, batteries, payloads, and structural components * Support environmental testing, including thermal vacuum, altitude simulation ...
Senior Mechanical Engineer: Optical Payload, Space
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$166K - $220K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Create opto-mechanical designs of space payloads ranging from small cameras to large telescopes
Senior Mechanical Engineer: Optical Payload, Space
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$166K - $220K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Create opto-mechanical designs of space payloads ranging from small cameras to large telescopes
Senior Mechanical Engineer: Optical Payload, Space
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$166K - $220K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Create opto-mechanical designs of space payloads ranging from small cameras to large telescopes
Senior Mechanical Engineer: Optical Payload, Space
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$166K - $220K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Create opto-mechanical designs of space payloads ranging from small cameras to large telescopes
Impulse Space develops spacecraft and propulsion systems that provide transportation and mobility services for payloads operating in space. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Redondo ...
Impulse Space develops spacecraft and propulsion systems that provide transportation and mobility services for payloads operating in space. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Redondo ...
Payloads Lead
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$132K - $198K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... As a Payload Engineer, you will lead/enable mechanical design, analysis and integration of Anduril ...
Payloads Lead
Costa Mesa, CA · On-site
$132K - $198K/yr
Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... As a Payload Engineer, you will lead/enable mechanical design, analysis and integration of Anduril ...
Impulse Space develops spacecraft and propulsion systems that provide transportation and mobility services for payloads operating in space. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Redondo ...
Impulse Space develops spacecraft and propulsion systems that provide transportation and mobility services for payloads operating in space. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Redondo ...
Payload Operator information
See California salary details
$11.86 - $13.95
3% of jobs
$13.95 - $16.05
2% of jobs
$16.05 - $18.14
4% of jobs
$20.16 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$18.14 - $20.23
16% of jobs
The median wage is $21.60 / hr.
$20.23 - $22.32
37% of jobs
$22.32 - $24.41
5% of jobs
$24.41 - $26.51
2% of jobs
$26.51 - $28.60
1% of jobs
$29.12 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.60 - $30.69
15% of jobs
$30.69 - $32.78
9% of jobs
$32.78 - $34.87
5% of jobs
$11
$24
$34
How much do payload operator jobs pay per hour?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the payload operator position, and why are they important?
Success as a Payload Operator requires a solid understanding of mechanical operations, situational awareness, and strong attention to detail, typically supported by technical training or certifications related to payload systems. Familiarity with specialized control interfaces, monitoring software, and industry safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as a UAV license (for aerial payloads) may be required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication skills help operators handle dynamic environments and coordinate with other mission stakeholders. These competencies are vital for ensuring payloads are deployed safely, accurately, and efficiently in often high-stakes operational settings.
What are the typical daily responsibilities of a payload operator?
As a Payload Operator, your daily responsibilities often include monitoring and controlling payload equipment, ensuring correct operation according to mission requirements, and conducting routine checks on system performance. You may be required to work closely with engineers, technicians, and mission planners to troubleshoot issues and optimize payload deployment. Accurate reporting and documentation are also a significant part of the role, as well as maintaining compliance with safety and operational protocols. Depending on the sector (such as aerospace, maritime, or energy), you might operate within diverse environments like control rooms, field operations, or remote mission sites. This role offers a dynamic workday and the chance to directly contribute to successful missions and projects.
What is a payload operator?
A Payload Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and managing the operation of payload systems on various platforms, such as drones, satellites, or remotely operated vehicles. They ensure the correct functioning of sensors, cameras, communication equipment, or scientific instruments. Their role may involve data collection, system troubleshooting, and coordinating with mission teams to achieve operational objectives. Payload Operators often work in industries like aerospace, defense, and remote sensing, requiring technical expertise and situational awareness.
What does a payload operator do?
What are the most commonly searched types of Payload Operator jobs in California?
The most popular types of Payload Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Payload Operator jobs in California?
For Payload Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Payload Operator jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Payload Operator jobs in California are:

Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 18 days ago
Northrop Grumman rating
8.2
Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
88th of 540 rated manufacturers
Job description
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: SCI
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems is seeking a Principal Mission Payload Systems Engineer to join our team in Redondo Beach, California.
This role focuses on advancing space systems through comprehensive systems engineering efforts. The Principal Mission Payload Systems Engineer will contribute to architecture trade studies, system design analysis, and performance modeling through advanced simulations. In this capacity, you will define and manage requirements, develop segment interfaces, and leverage cutting-edge technologies in optical sensing, communications, directed energy, RF systems, digital hardware, and microelectronics.
Key responsibilities span the complete product development lifecycle, including:
- Supporting new business acquisition and IRAD/technology development initiatives.
- Defining system architectures, conducting trade studies, and developing specifications.
- Allocating and validating requirements and contributing to payload performance analysis.
- Designing modeling and simulation tools for system-level performance evaluation.
- Leading payload hardware development for space and ground systems integration.
- Managing subcontractor performance, hardware manufacturing, and integration processes.
By joining this team, you'll play a critical role in delivering advanced integrated hardware and software systems that enable missions spanning Earth and beyond. If you have the pioneering spirit and technical expertise to develop groundbreaking systems, we invite you to help define the future of space exploration and innovation.
This position is contingent upon capturing program award(s) along with acquiring and maintaining customer and/or business funding. Furthermore, this position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company. Continued employment thereafter will be subject to maintenance of the level of clearance and program access required for the position in the future.
Essential experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Overhead Infrared (OPIR) system
- Electro-Optics
- Sensor design
- Remote sensing
- High energy laser systems
- Lasercom systems
- Spacecraft system design
- Image processing
- RF and digital hardware design
- Signal detection and estimation
- Control Systems
- Structures/Dynamics
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelors of Science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 5+ years of engineering experience OR a Masters of Science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 3+ years of engineering experience OR a Phd in a STEM discipline
- Possesses strong leadership qualities, as well as strong verbal and written communication skills
- Experience designing, integrating, testing and operating optical and/or RF systems
- Must have active DoD Top Secret AND the ability and willingness to obtain SCI clearance at time of application. .
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelors, Masters or Doctorate Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Computer Science
- Experience with remote sensing, Space Situational Awareness (SSA), communications or directed energy
- Candidates have completed relevant coursework in optics, control systems, remote sensing, lasercom and/or DSP
- Experience with baseband and EO/IR sensors, high energy lasers, and/or remote sensing applications
- Active TS with SCI clearance at time of application.
Northrop Grumman offers a competitive and robust benefits program. As a full-time employee of Northrop Grumman, you are eligible for:
-Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
-401k
-Educational Assistance
-Life Insurance
-Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions
-Paid Time Off
-Health & Wellness Resources
-Employee Discounts
-Flexible Schedules: For example, the ability to work a 9/80 work schedule, which allows an employee to work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday and take every other Friday off of work.
-For more details, please view Northrop Grumman Benefits.
#LosAngelesSpace
#LI-DB1
Primary Level Salary Range: $110,300.00 - $165,500.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
What Northrop Grumman employees say
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About Northrop Grumman
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.
Industry
Space research administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Falls Church, VA, US
Year founded
1939