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Payload Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Role Description The Project Engineer will serve as the primary technical interface between the prime contractor team and payload customers, ensuring seamless integration of customer payloads onto ...

This role is highly strategic and technical, focused on end-to-end RF payload architecture-from antenna and front-end design through system-level performance, signal processing considerations, and ...

Lead Electrical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$152K - $159K/yr

Payload & Customer Support * Assist customers and Principal Investigators to ensure experiments and payloads meet ISS and project requirements, integrate as planned, and function properly onorbit.

This role is highly strategic and technical, focused on end-to-end RF payload architecture--from antenna and front-end design through system-level performance, signal processing considerations, and ...

This role is highly strategic and technical, focused on end-to-end RF payload architecture-from antenna and front-end design through system-level performance, signal processing considerations, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Payload information

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 does a payload operator do?

A payload operator is responsible for managing and deploying payloads in aerospace, military, or drone operations. They handle the loading, release, and control of equipment or cargo during missions, often using specialized tools and adhering to safety protocols. This role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of relevant safety standards.

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 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, instruments, or equipment carried by 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 systems, safety protocols, and operational procedures. Understanding payload integration and handling is essential for ensuring mission success and safety.
What cities in Texas are hiring for Payload jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Payload job openings:
Infographic showing various Payload job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Payload Safety Panel Representative (BT-26130)

Bastion Technologies

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Payload Safety Panel Representative will support the space program located in Houston, TX.


RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Function as the engineering representative to the ISS Safety Review Panel (ISRP).
  • Be an integral member of the ISRP team for all phases of a project from project kick-off and development (PDR, CDR, etc.) through product delivery for flight.
  • Perform technical review of simple and complex spaceflight payload systems, Government Furnished Equipment, or ISS systems with respect to transport, interface and operational parameters and requirements as well as assure that sound engineering practices have been employed.
  • Interact with the engineering subject matter expert team, coordinating comments, and providing feedback communications.
  • Support meetings with ISS Program leadership.
  • Participate in engineering working group meetings that support ISS safety panel reviews.
  • Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED:

This position has been posted at multiple levels (must meet minimum level indicated). Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised.


  • This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Resident status due to the sensitivity of customer related information.
  • Must have a bachelor's degree in the field of engineering.
  • Must have a minimum of 2+ years of recent and related work experience.
  • Ability to work on multiple projects, within matrix team environments, and to demanding schedules is required. Examples of capabilities may be requested during interview process.
  • Experience in the design and evaluation of electrical and mechanical systems including avionics, electrical power distribution and control, hydraulic, pneumatic, pressure systems, pyrotechnics, mechanisms and electromechanical devices.
  • Working knowledge of thermal analysis, stress analysis, and material science as applicable to mechanical systems and devices.
  • Ability to identify and assess hazardous conditions and implement controls and verifications related to mechanical, electrical and electronic systems and devices.
  • Working knowledge of all systems safety disciplines.
  • Working knowledge of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree / Failure Analysis.
  • Good knowledge of aerospace materials and acceptability.
  • Familiarity with the NASA standards and payloads requirements.
  • Familiarity with the ISS Hazard System website and associated tools.
  • Working knowledge of crew requirements / preferences.
  • Experience with Spaceflight Safety certification.
  • Have a proactive attitude in leading a group to resolve technical issues.
  • Possess strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Possess strong negotiations skills.

DESIRED:

  • Systems Engineering experience.
  • Systems / Payload integrator experience.
  • System Safety experience at Johnson Space Center highly desired.
  • Degree in ME, EE, Aerospace Engineering, or Aerospace Safety.

WORK LOCATION:

  • This position is located onsite and offers a 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off; some travel may be required.
  • Schedules are subject to change based on the requirements of the position and/or customer needs.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS REQUIRED:

All Bastion employees must be able to pass a national agency check and some positions require clearance and will require an extensive background verification/check process.


DRUG AND ALCOHOL SCREENING REQUIRED:

All Bastion employees must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and are required to participate in periodic random drug and alcohol screenings.


STANDARD BASTION REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and TEAMS.
  • All of Bastion's employees must be team players with strong work ethics and must be culture oriented.
  • Able to communicate effectively, verbally and in written form, with internal and external customers.
  • Able to follow company programs, processes, procedures, practices, requirements, goals, and objectives.
  • Must be organized with good time management skills and must be able to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements.
  • Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.
  • Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time) and may require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time).
  • Regular attendance in accordance with an established work schedule is critical.

BASTION BENEFITS:

Bastion offers a wide range of benefits for their full-time employees; medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, disability benefits, life insurance, retirement 401k, vacation, sick pay, holidays, flexible work schedules (when available), along with many other options. We also support career advancement through professional training and development.


ABOUT BASTION:

Bastion offers career opportunities with competitive benefits, exciting possibilities for advancement, and an exceptional work environment; the well-being of our employees is a priority, and our flexibility allows our employees a great work life balance. Our culture is based on strong business ethics, integrity, and professionalism. Our team members are known for their initiative and high-quality work. When it comes to our employees, we value, respect, and help them grow in their careers.


WORKPLACE EXCELLENCE:

At Bastion, we are passionate about our people and our safety culture. Individual thoughts, opinions, and perspectives bring value and help us develop solutions for challenging problems, they make us more inventive, and more resilient.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.


Bastion participates in e-Verify.


#EntryLevel


#LI-Onsite


BT-26130