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Payload Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

FTS International LLC

Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

The Payload Engineer will provide subject matter expert (SME) advice, technical evaluations, technical assessments and alternative approaches to the customer. Responsibilities * Provide expert advice ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems--both on‑orbit and in development. You will ...

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As a Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in satellite payload architecture, SAR payload development, SAR processing and image formation, and end-to ...

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Satellite Payload Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program supporting the National ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Payload Subject Matter Expert to support the NRO GEOINT Directorate. This is a Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support position to assist ...

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As a Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in satellite payload architecture, SAR payload development, SAR processing and image formation, and ...

Saic

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Description SAIC is seeking a Payload Subject Matter Expert to support the NRO GEOINT Directorate. This is a Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support position to assist in ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems-both on-orbit and in development. You will support ...

Saic

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Description SAIC is seeking a Payload Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in a dynamic NRO System Program Office (SPO) at ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems-both on-orbit and in development. You will support ...

KBR

Payload Specialist - SIGINT

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $205K/yr

Payload Specialist - SIGINT Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR, Inc.

Payload Specialist - SIGINT

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $205K/yr

Payload Specialist - SIGINT Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Payload Subject Matter Expert to support the NRO GEOINT Directorate. This is a Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support position to assist ...

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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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Payload jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Payload jobs in Virginia?

For Payload jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Payload jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Payload jobs in Virginia are:

Payload jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payload job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

FTS International LLC
See more jobs at FTS International LLCexternal

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

FTS International, LLC (FTS) is committed to providing the Federal Government with quality consultants and support. To ensure mission success we focus on putting our customers first while minimizing corporate bureaucracy on our staff. We provide Subject Matter Experts (SME) free of Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI) focused on independent analysis and mission support services within the disciplines of Engineering, Counter Terrorism Operations, Management, Information Technology, Signals Analysis, Administration, Cyber Security and Linguistics.
FTS has an opportunity for an Payload Engineerin Chantilly, VA.
The Payload Engineer will provide subject matter expert (SME) advice, technical evaluations, technical assessments and alternative approaches to the customer.
Responsibilities
  • Provide expert advice, technical evaluations and alternative approaches as subject matter expert and technical advisor to a government customer on SIGINT payload design, integration, and performance
  • Evaluate contractor designs, test plans, and performance data against mission requirements and provide independent recommendations
  • Provide independent assessments of technical issues and assess schedule and cost implications
  • Lead and/or participate in design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and risk assessments
  • Support end-to-end system engineering activities, including requirements definition, verification, and validation and stakeholder engagement
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including RF engineers, systems architects, and mission analysts
  • Conduct rigorous analysis of alternatives for payload solutions, evaluating technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and performance analysis in alignment with strategic objectives
  • Assess, create, and maintain comprehensive interface control documents (ICDs)
  • Create and deliver technical presentations to program office leadership and stakeholders.
  • Identify system risks and opportunities, and advise on mitigation strategies

Required Skills/Qualifications
  • TS/SCI with polygraph
  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering or a related field
  • 14+ years of relevant RF payload or space systems development experience
  • 10+ years specifically in RF payload development or payload systems engineering with a focus on RF, digital signal processing, or SIGINT systems
  • SIGINT payload development or systems engineering experience
  • Knowledge of link budgets, antenna design, and RF propagation in space environments
  • Deep understanding of RF systems, digital signal processing, and payload architectures
  • Experience with space system development lifecycles, from concept through on-orbit operations
  • Proven ability to evaluate contractor deliverables and provide actionable technical recommendations
  • Strong communication skills for interfacing with senior government leaders

Desired Skills/Qualifications
  • MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering or a related field 5+ years' experience working on SIGINT systems
  • 5+ years' experience as a SETA
  • Hands-on experience with payload integration and test (I&T)
  • Experience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools
  • Payload performance modeling, link budget analysis, and end-to-end system simulation experience

Expected Salary Range: $160,000 - $185,000 per year. Placement within the range is determined by qualifications, job-related criteria, experience, internal equity and market considerations. In addition, FTS International, LLC has benefits offerings in addition to salary to include Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.
FTS International, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer - vets/disabled.

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