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Payload Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the development ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

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 Chief

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer Chief , 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

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the ...

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer Chief

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$200K - $240K/yr

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

Saic

Payload Systems Engineer Chief

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

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

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer Chief

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

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

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

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 ...

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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.

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about SAICexternal

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

SAIC rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Description
Description
The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the development, verification, and sustainment of RF payload hardware for space-based intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and communications missions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and execute RF payload development including architecture definition, component selection, and subsystem integration.
  • Develop and implement production-level RF payload testing including functional, performance, and environmental test plans.
  • Perform RF link analysis, payload signal chain validation, and troubleshooting at system and component levels.
  • Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams on payload interfaces and mission requirements.
  • Support hardware manufacturing readiness, test procedure development, and flight certification processes.
  • Generate engineering documentation, test reports, technical briefings, and configuration-controlled artifacts.
  • Participate in design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and customer working groups.
  • Provide technical insight during vendor management and risk assessments.

Qualifications
  • Bachelors and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience.
  • 8-12+ years of experience in RF payloads, RF systems, or radar payload development.
  • Expertise in RF hardware design, payload architectures, and test methodologies.
  • Experience with RF test equipment including VNAs, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
  • Must have a TS/SCI, and be willing to obtain a poly.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
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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