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Payload Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and ... The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ...

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and ... The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ...

Amazon

HW Dev Engineer - Payload

Redmond, WA

... operating in locations without reliable connectivity. A day in the life: As an Hardware Engineer ... payload systems in industry right now You will engage with an experienced team to conceive and ...

Amazon

HW Dev Engineer - Payload

Redmond, WA · On-site

... operating in locations without reliable connectivity. A day in the life: As an Hardware Engineer ... payload systems in industry right now You will engage with an experienced team to conceive and ...

The Aerospace Corporation

As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly ... Directorate-H, Electronic Programs Division, is seeking a Payload Systems Engineer ( Project ...

The Aerospace Corporation

As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly ... Directorate-H, Electronic Programs Division, is seeking a Payload Systems Engineer ( Project ...

Amazon

HW Dev Engineer - Payload

Redmond, WA · On-site

... 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 ...

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How much do payload operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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 job?

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.

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Payload Operator jobs near you
Payload Integration Engineer

Payload Integration Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job 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 Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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