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Payload Space System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR, Inc.

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

... solutions for complex space system projects, including mission payload, cryptographic ... Plan and perform engineering research, design development, technical studies, trade analysis, risk ...

AdventHealth

Chief Engineer, Space Systems

Reston, VA · On-site

As the Chief Engineer, Space Systems, you will serve as the technical authority responsible for the ... Define overall spacecraft and payload architectures, system interfaces, integration strategies, and ...

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ... System integration and test experience with space systems * Knowledge and application of Systems ...

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ... System integration and test experience with space systems * Knowledge and application of Systems ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Space Systems Engineer to lead a complex systems ... Oversee payload integration and manage interface control with stakeholders. * Performs system ...

KBR, Inc

$110K - $229K/yr

Makes space program risk assessments and provides actionable recommendations to the Chief Engineer ... payloads* Previous experience with DoD and/or IC programs with a focus on space system ...

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Payload Integration Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ... System integration and test experience with space systems * Knowledge and application of Systems ...

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Payload Space System Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do payload space system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for payload space system engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a payload space system engineer?

A Payload Space System Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, integrates, and tests the payload systems carried aboard spacecraft. These payloads can include scientific instruments, communication devices, cameras, or other mission-specific equipment. Payload Space System Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that the payload meets mission requirements and operates reliably in the harsh environment of space. They are involved throughout the project lifecycle, from initial concept and design to launch and operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payload space system engineer?

To thrive as a Payload Space System Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in satellite or spacecraft payloads. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB, CAD software, systems modeling tools, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications like INCOSE are typical requirements. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring payloads meet mission objectives, operate reliably in space environments, and integrate seamlessly with spacecraft systems.

What are some common challenges faced by payload space system engineers when integrating payloads with spacecraft platforms?

Payload Space System Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing the complex interface requirements between the payload and the host spacecraft, ensuring that power, data, and thermal needs are met without impacting overall system performance. They must also address strict weight and volume constraints while maintaining reliability in harsh space environments. Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to resolve integration issues and ensure mission success.

What are popular job titles related to Payload Space System Engineer jobs?

For Payload Space System Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Payload Space System Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

KBR, Inc.
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about KBR, Inc.external

$101K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Title:
Senior Space Systems Engineer
KBR is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to provide System Engineering Technical Assistance (SETA) support to the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (Space RCO) in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The selected candidate will advise Government program leadership on complex space system engineering activities, including requirements development, architecture and design trades, technical analysis, integration planning, risk assessment, and technical oversight of contractor performance, schedule, budget, and deliverable quality.
This role supports rapid development and delivery of advanced space capabilities in a high-tempo, classified mission environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Support design, interpretation, and analysis of technical solutions for complex space system projects, including mission payload, cryptographic, communications, satellite, ground, and related subsystem interfaces.
  • Lead or support technical programs, projects, and tasks that require systems engineering oversight, technical coordination, and integration across multiple partners and agencies.
  • Develop, refine, and assess technical requirements, interface needs, design trades, and engineering approaches from project inception through execution and delivery.
  • Assess contractor plans and execution for risk to technical performance, schedule, budget, quality, and mission outcomes; provide fact-based recommendations to Government customers.
  • Plan and perform engineering research, design development, technical studies, trade analysis, risk assessments, and other engineering assignments in conformance with customer requirements and specifications.
  • Evaluate program, project, and task deliverables to determine whether technical outputs meet applicable quality standards, metrics, mission objectives, and intended warfighting purpose.
  • Provide strategic advice, technical guidance, and subject matter expertise to program office personnel, project staff, and mission partners on systems engineering issues.
  • Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, including operational units, mission partners, acquisition organizations, and engineering communities, to support delivery milestones and transition of systems into operational use.
  • Prepare and support technical reviews, briefings, recommendations, reports, and decision materials for management and executive leadership.
  • Communicate complex technical information clearly, concisely, and accurately in both oral and written form.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in support of program objectives.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • An active Top Secret clearance with SCI and SAP eligibility and willingness to undergo a polygraph is required to be considered for this position, which is something only a U.S. citizen can obtain.
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, applied science, or a related technical discipline; equivalent experience may be considered only if permitted by contract requirements and approved by HR/Compensation.
  • Minimum 10 years of relevant DoD/IC, Government, or industry experience in systems engineering, space systems, mission payloads, satellite communications, cryptographic systems, or related advanced mission systems.
  • Experience supporting development, integration, fielding, or sustainment of complex satellite, payload, ground, communications, or cryptographic systems.
  • Understanding of the space operational environment, mission-user needs, system performance criteria, and mission constraints.
  • Experience with technical requirements, interface definition, design trades, Integrated Master Schedules, technical risk management, and contractor deliverable assessment.
  • Experience supporting DoD acquisition, program development, transition, or rapid prototyping environments.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, classified, mission-focused environment with minimal supervision.

Desired:
  • Master's degree in engineering, systems engineering, engineering management, or a related technical field.
  • ABET-accredited engineering degree or Professional Engineering license.
  • At least five years of experience in SAP, SCI, or other highly classified mission environments.
  • Prior SETA support to a Government program office.
  • Experience with rapid prototyping, ACAT I/II acquisition programs, integrated air/space/cyberspace capabilities, or planning and executing space system test campaigns.
  • Knowledge of Intelligence Community organizations and operational mission partner interfaces.
  • Experience developing, deploying, integrating, or sustaining ground mission planning architecture or software.

Work Environment:
  • Location: On-site
  • Travel Requirements: Up to 30%
  • Working Hours: Standard

Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40hrs
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Why Join Us?
  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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