ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Payload Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Payload Integration Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$171K/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 ...

Stratolaunch

Payload Systems Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Collaborates with the payload's integration and test engineers, test team responsible engineers, payloads program leadership, and payload customers to define and implement vehicle payloads ...

Blue Origin

Senior Payload Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$144.18K - $201.85K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Payload Integration or Systems Engineer to manage the integration of optical terminals on spacecraft. This individual will apply customer management skills and systems ...

VTG

Payload Engineer (RF)

Chantilly, VA

Overview VTG is seeking a Payload Engineer (RF) in Chantilly, Va . What will you do? Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: * Overseeing design and development of RF payload systems and ...

Blue Origin

Senior Payload Systems Engineer

Reston, VA

$144.18K - $201.85K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Payload Integration or Systems Engineer to manage the integration of optical terminals on spacecraft. This individual will apply customer management skills and systems ...

Vantor

Sr. Payload Systems Engineer

Westminster, CO

$106.20K - $145.30K/yr

Vantor is hiring for a Sr. Payload Systems Engineer to join our team in Westminster, CO. The team is responsible for defining the mission, satellite, and payload architecture behind next-generation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsPayload Jobs

Payload information

See salary details

$48K

$86.5K

$144K

How much do payload jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for payload in the United States is $86,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Payload Specialist, and why are they important?

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 are payload specialists?

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 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.

More about Payload jobs
What cities are hiring for Payload jobs? Cities with the most Payload job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Payload jobs? The most popular types of Payload jobs are:
What states have the most Payload jobs? States with the most job openings for Payload jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Payload jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Payload jobs are:
Payload jobs near you
Infographic showing various Payload job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,458 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Struct & Payload Design Engr (Payload Systems Design)

Struct & Payload Design Engr (Payload Systems Design)

Boeing

Everett, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 585 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 512 rated manufacturers

Job description

Struct & Payload Design Engr (Payload Systems Design)
Company:
The Boeing Company
The Payloads organization within Boeing Commercial Aircraft is seeking Payloads Design Engineers (Associate or Experienced) to join our teams in Everett, WA.
The Payloads Organization is responsible for everything you see when you fly; and much of which you don't.
The Interiors of the airplane, along with the cargo compartments, exterior markings, associated systems, and cabin safety all make up Payloads. We are how our airline customers fulfill their mission and represent their brand and shape how the public experiences flight.
Our organization is a fast paced, dynamic environment, which pulls from many engineering backgrounds.
The Interiors Responsibility Center (IRC) is a manufacturing facility, and is a fun and exciting place for practical, hands-on engineers who like to see their ideas become reality.
IRC Payloads Design Engineers (DEs) value a hands-on approach to problem-solving. There will be frequent opportunities for collaborating with Operations, building test parts for mockups/validation, and visits to the Airplane Integration Center, Factory and Flight Line.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Leads or assist in developing, integrating, and documenting interior payload system requirements to establish the component/system design
  • Leads or assists in developing, maintaining, and modifying interior payload system and component designs, using design tools and/or other design methods
  • Communicates and collaborates with the value stream which includes multiple engineering organizations, production operations, supply chain, customers, and leadership
  • Communications, in-person will frequently be required due to production-facing responsibilities
  • Leads or assists performance, integration and analysis of tests to validate and verify systems and components meet requirements and specifications
  • Supports problem-solving efforts that include multiple disciplines and stakeholders, such as production support (build/installation)
  • Reviews engineering for soundness of designs, quality, producibility, etc.
  • Documents design/system requirements, design intent, lessons learned, etc. for historical and training purposes
  • Works cross functionally with broader team members within an IPT (Integrated Product Team) by making or help making timely sound decisions to carry the projects forward
  • Determines and define what is critical and what is not critical for a product and propose creative solutions to stakeholders and approvers

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (with a focus on Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace Aeronautical or Material Sciences)
  • 2+ years of experience in engineering, including design, integration, and/or certification

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Experience supporting a cross-functional team
  • Experience in aerospace interiors, materials and properties, design criteria and release processes
  • Demonstrates good problem-solving skills and critical thinking
  • Ability to work independently with a high degree of ownership and accountability, and initiative
  • Ability to manage a high volume of complex work packages diligently track milestones and ensure process steps are followed to ensure on-time performance
  • Be able to understand Interior certification processes and requirements, and how they may impact the engineering, schedule, etc.
  • Technical writing skills
  • The candidate would ideally have a working knowledge of: ETAC (engineering tracker), ECAS, DCCS (certification trackers), CATIA V5, ENOVIA, IVT, PDM, CMES, MS Office Suite
  • Ability to work with regulatory agencies or delegates, suppliers, and customers

Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.
Drug Free Workplace:
Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Union:
This is a union-represented position.
Total Rewards & Pay Transparency:
At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary pay range Senior (level 2): $96,300 - $117,700
Language Requirements:
Not Applicable
Education:
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
Relocation:
This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.
Export Control Requirement:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Safety Sensitive:
This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.
Security Clearance:
This position does not require a Security Clearance.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning
Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
EEO is the law
Boeing EEO Policy
Request an Accommodation
Applicant Privacy
Boeing Participates in E - Verify
  • E-Verify (English)
  • E-Verify (Spanish)

Right to Work Statement
  • Right to Work (English)
  • Right to Work (Spanish)

What Boeing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply