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Payload Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer - Systems

Virginia, IL · On-site

$175 - $228/hr

Own and maintain the program's critical interface control documents, including payload-to-bus, ground-to-payload, and LEONS-to-MOS interfaces, as well as mixed-constellation user range accuracy and ...

Define and review API requirements, including request/response schemas, payload rules, field‑level validations, and integration behavior (REST/gRPC). * Collaborate with SMEs, architects, product ...

Demystify payload logic, webhook handling, and integration workflows to remove technical friction early in the sales cycle. * Product Feedback Loop: Serve as the technical voice of the customer ...

Demystify payload logic, webhook handling, and integration workflows to remove technical friction early in the sales cycle. * Product Feedback Loop: Serve as the technical voice of the customer ...

Demystify payload logic, webhook handling, and integration workflows to remove technical friction early in the sales cycle. * Product Feedback Loop: Serve as the technical voice of the customer ...

Performance Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$172K/yr

Script, execute, and analyze performance tests using NeoLoad and validate technical payloads. * WLM Expertise: Apply advanced Workload Management (WLM) principles to simulate realistic production ...

New

Develop custom tools, payloads, exploits, and automation capabilities to support complex Red Team operations. * Research emerging threats, attacker methodologies, and offensive security techniques to ...

Must have Experience with REST and JSON payloads. * Must have Experience with Queues - RabbitMQ or similar. * Must have Experience in integrating with enterprise applications like CRM applications ...

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Payload information

What is a payload specialist?

Payload specialists are experts selected to manage and operate specific scientific or technical equipment on space missions, often aboard spacecraft such as the Space Shuttle or International Space Station. They are typically responsible for the preparation, execution, and monitoring of experiments or cargo during a mission. Payload specialists can come from scientific, engineering, or industry backgrounds and are chosen for their expertise related to the mission's payload. Their role is distinct from that of career astronauts, as they focus primarily on the payload rather than the overall operation of the spacecraft.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payload specialist?

To thrive as a Payload Specialist, you typically need a background in engineering, physics, or a related science field, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with aerospace systems. Familiarity with mission planning software, payload integration tools, and systems such as MATLAB or LabVIEW is common, along with certifications like ITAR compliance when required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for managing complex payload operations. These abilities ensure safe, reliable, and mission-optimized payload deployment in high-stakes aerospace environments.

What are some common challenges faced by payload specialists when working on multidisciplinary teams in aerospace projects?

Payload Specialists often collaborate with engineers, scientists, and project managers, which requires clear communication and adaptability to different technical perspectives. A common challenge is ensuring that payload requirements are integrated smoothly with other subsystems, often under tight deadlines and shifting project priorities. Successful Payload Specialists proactively coordinate with other teams, anticipate integration issues, and remain flexible to accommodate late-stage design changes. This environment fosters strong problem-solving skills and can provide excellent opportunities for professional growth within multidisciplinary aerospace teams.

What is the difference between Payload vs Data Analyst?

AspectPayloadData Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically no specific certifications, but knowledge of logistics and transportationBachelor's degree in statistics, data science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLogistics, transportation, or delivery settingsOffice-based, data analysis, reporting, and visualization tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics companies, courier services, transportation firmsCorporations, consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared in logistics contextsCompared in data management and analysis contexts

While Payload refers to the cargo or goods transported, Data Analyst focuses on interpreting data to inform business decisions. Both roles are essential in their industries but serve different functions—one in logistics and transportation, the other in data-driven insights.

What is payload and how does it work?

In the context of a payload specialist or related roles, payload refers to the cargo, equipment, or scientific instruments carried on a vehicle such as a spacecraft, drone, or aircraft. The payload is designed to perform specific functions, and its deployment or operation is managed by the payload specialist or technician, often requiring knowledge of aerospace systems, safety protocols, and relevant tools. Understanding payload integration and handling is essential for ensuring mission success and safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payload jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Payload jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Payload job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Payload Accommodation Engineer III

Blue Origin LLC

Virginia, IL • On-site

$133 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

## Payload Accommodation Engineer IIIApplylocations: Reston, VA: Greater Seattle Area: Denver, COtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R68734Application close date:Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight! The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit.Payload Accommodation Engineer IIIThe role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on development, manufacturing, and operation of satellite systems to address one of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space mobility. As part of a hardworking team of talented engineers, you will be exposed to a hardware-rich prototyping environment that allows for rapid design/build iteration, work with a world-class team, and experience the entire lifecycle from formulation to flight in a short time.This role works across the Payload Accommodation subsystem and supports integrated solutions to achieve our vision of “millions of people living and working in space.” This individual will apply customer management skills and systems engineering practices across various technical subject areas. Additionally, this role requires understanding and supporting: requirements analysis and traceability; functional analysis; systems analysis; safety analysis; technical performance monitoring; development of specialty engineering strategic approaches (operability, reliability, maintainability, supportability); and system product lifecycle processes.We are looking for someone to apply their technical expertise, leadership skills, and dedication to quality to increase accessibility to space. Passion for our mission and vision is required!Special Mentions• Relocation provided• Travel expected up to 15% of the time**Responsibilities include but are not limited to:*** Serve as customer-facing point-of-contact and technical advocate for one or more payloads through the full payload lifecycle (execution of contract through payload integration and launch)* Support the development, allocation, and verification of requirements* Assist with the development of systems engineering processes and tools, ensure consistent implementation, and serve in a system integration capacity, working with multi-discipline teams to arrive at technical system solutions**Minimum Qualifications*** Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace engineering, Physics* 5+ years of proven experience in systems engineering principles and execution* Experience in one or more of the following areas: + Payload accommodation + Spacecraft design, development, integration, and testing + Launch vehicles* Experience with project or program management* Enjoys a highly dynamic and fast-paced environment* Possess skills in strategic system thinking, excellent written and oral communication skills, proactive in moving the program forward through team collaborations to achieve timely decisions, ability to earn trust, and maintain positive and professional relationships* Knowledge of current systems engineering and integration tools and methodologies* Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum**Preferred Qualifications*** M.S. degree in a relevant technical field* 8+ years of experience* Expertise in the following areas: + Payload accommodation + System development/integration + At least one of the areas of analysis, design, or integrated testing + Launch vehicles + Focused subject area in one of the following: fluids, thermal, propulsion, avionics, or electrical hardware and/or software, telemetry/communications, structures, ground operations, or flight/ground autonomy* Experience with the following: + Reliability, maintainability, and operability analysis and execution + System safety + Testing* Experience with verification of requirements using tools like DOORS Next Generation, system lifecycle configuration management tools, and other functional analysis toolsets* Knowledgeable about system design and analysis and relations to element design at the flight and ground levels as well as component specification development* Familiarity with the entire product lifecycle, including ground equipment and operations, manufacturing, and ISC considerations* Active or the ability to obtain a Top Secret/SCI clearance### Base Pay Range for:VA applicants is $121,023.00 - $169,432.20CO applicants is $110,938.00 - $155,312.85WA applicants is $121,023.00 - $169,432.20**Other site ranges may differ** **Culture Statement**Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. **Export Control Regulations**Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. **Background Check*** Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check* Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation* Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.* Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical **Benefits*** Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.* Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)* Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.* Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details. **Equal Employment Opportunity**Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on “Know Your Rights,” please see here. **Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation**Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000