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Payload Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

HW Dev Engineer - Payload

Redmond, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating in locations without reliable connectivity. A day in the life: As an Hardware Engineer ... About the team The payload team is responsible for the architecture, design, implementation ...

Amazon

Embedded SDE, Leo Payload

Redmond, WA · On-site

$147K - $193K/yr

... people and organizations operating in locations without reliable connectivity. Key job ... Work on the Satellite Communication Systems Payload. Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable ...

Amazon

Embedded SDE, Leo Payload

Redmond, WA · On-site

$147K - $193K/yr

... people and organizations operating in locations without reliable connectivity. Key job ... Work on the Satellite Communication Systems Payload. Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable ...

KBR

Radar Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Title: Radar Payload Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Analyze project requirements and provide information and instruction for designing, operating ...

KBR, Inc.

Radar Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Title: Radar Payload Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Analyze project requirements and provide information and instruction for designing, operating ...

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Payload Operator information

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How much do payload operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for payload operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

A payload operator is responsible for managing and controlling the payloads of aircraft, spacecraft, or drones, ensuring proper installation, operation, and safety. They often work with specialized equipment, follow safety protocols, and may require certifications or training in aviation or aerospace operations.
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Payload Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payload Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Manager of Payload Systems and Integration

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach is seeking a Manager of Payload Systems and Integration to own and deliver payload capability across our munition platforms-from early concept through real-world deployment. This role is about owning outcomes, driving execution, and closing the gap between design and deployment.
This is a hands-on, high-ownership role for someone who wants to directly shape systems that reach the field quickly. You will be responsible for ensuring payload systems are designed correctly, fully integrated into our vehicles, and proven through test and flight operations.
You will work in tight coordination with our Vehicle Leads and Test & Flight Operations team to rapidly iterate and deliver mission-ready capability to the warfighter.
Key Responsibilities
Payload Ownership & System Integration
  • Own the end-to-end payload system, including warhead, fuzing, energetics, and effects
  • Own integration of payloads into operational platforms, ensuring performance at the full system level
  • Define and maintain System requirements and Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
  • Develop and own standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling, Integration, and Ground operations of energetic systems
  • Ensure payload systems are safe, repeatable, and operationally executable across engineering, test, and field environments
  • Work directly with Vehicle Leads to drive system architecture, constraints, and tradeoffs
  • Ensure payload designs are practical, manufacturable, and mission-aligned including working with internal and external supply chain and manufacturing teams
Verification & Validation
  • Own the verification and validation strategy for payload systems
  • Develop test plans, evaluation methodologies, and acceptance criteria tied to system requirements and mission outcomes
  • Execute alongside test and flight ops teams to conduct ground testing, flight testing, and live-fire events
  • Rapidly iterate designs based on real-world test data
  • Validate handling, integration, and operational procedures through ground and flight test activities
Flight & Field Execution
  • Serve as the payload lead during test campaigns and flight operations
  • Support range events, demos, and field deployments
  • Drive tight iteration loops between design → test → analysis → deployment
Program Delivery
  • Own payload readiness across prototype, validation, demonstration, and fielding
  • Deliver systems that meet targets for performance, reliability, safety, and timeline
  • Translate mission needs into deployable, integrated payload capability

Required Qualifications
  • 5-10+ years of experience in munitions, missile systems, or energetics
  • Proven track record owning design, integration, verification, and validation of complex hardware systems
  • Strong technical background in warhead / energetics design and/or weapon system integration
  • Experience developing requirements, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), test and validation strategies, and SOPs
  • Experience operating in Flight test, range, or live-fire environments
  • Familiarity with fuze safety and arming requirements, including experience working with DoD/Service safety boards (e.g., Fuze Safety Review Board) and relevant MIL-STD guidelines

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience delivering payloads on missiles, loitering munitions, or unmanned systems
  • Background in system-level design and trade studies
  • Experience in fast-paced or early-stage engineering environments

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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