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Remote Spacecraft Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$127K - $168K/yr

... into spacecraft design and mission operations. * Perform verification and validation of flight ... Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote ...

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$127K - $168K/yr

... into spacecraft design and mission operations. * Perform verification and validation of flight ... Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote ...

Principal Electrical Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$142K - $174K/yr

... remote sensing technologies for demanding spaceflight applications. This position is ideal for an ... Responsibilities Lead the electrical architecture, design, and technical execution of complex ...

... design, integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations * Coordinate closely with the executive ... Strong understanding of spacecraft systems engineering, including integration across hardware ...

Technical Studies Lead

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$200K - $240K/yr

None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Senior Lead for ... design/deployment of new protection capabilities into space operations. The Senior Lead for ...

Technical Program Manager

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$134K - $173K/yr

... design, integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations * Serve as the primary point of contact ... Experience leading or supporting execution of space hardware programs (payloads, spacecraft, or ...

Technical Program Manager

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$134K - $173K/yr

... design, integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations * Serve as the primary point of contact ... Experience leading or supporting execution of space hardware programs (payloads, spacecraft, or ...

Remote Spacecraft Design information

What is remote spacecraft design?

Remote spacecraft design refers to the process of creating, developing, and testing spacecraft systems and components using digital collaboration tools, often allowing engineers and designers to work from different locations. This approach leverages advanced software for 3D modeling, simulation, and communication, enabling teams to design spacecraft without being physically present at a central facility. Remote spacecraft design has become increasingly popular due to advances in technology and the need for flexible work environments. It requires strong coordination, secure data sharing, and effective project management to ensure successful outcomes. The process may involve multiple disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, all collaborating remotely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote spacecraft designer?

To thrive as a Remote Spacecraft Designer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, and CAD design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as CATIA, SolidWorks, MATLAB, and familiarity with systems engineering software are essential, along with knowledge of applicable aerospace standards and regulations. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective remote communication skills help you excel in collaborative, distributed teams. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the creation of safe, innovative, and reliable spacecraft components while coordinating seamlessly with global teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in remote spacecraft design teams?

Remote spacecraft design teams often navigate challenges such as coordinating across different time zones, maintaining clear communication, and ensuring all team members have access to up-to-date technical documentation and simulation tools. Collaboration is typically managed through digital platforms, requiring strong self-motivation and proactive communication. While the remote setup offers flexibility, it also demands rigorous project management to meet strict deadlines and mission requirements.

What is the difference between Remote Spacecraft Design vs Remote Satellite Engineer?

AspectRemote Spacecraft DesignRemote Satellite Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, aerospace certificationsEngineering degree, satellite systems certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, CAD software, remote collaborationSatellite systems, testing labs, remote coordination
Industry UsageAerospace, space agencies, private space companiesSatellite manufacturing, telecommunications, space industry

Remote Spacecraft Design and Remote Satellite Engineer roles both require aerospace engineering expertise and involve remote collaboration. However, spacecraft design focuses on creating entire spacecraft systems, while satellite engineers specialize in satellite-specific systems and deployment. Both roles are vital in the space industry and often overlap in skills and industry applications.

How much does a remote spacecraft design make?

A remote spacecraft designer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of projects. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in systems engineering or propulsion may earn higher salaries, especially when working for government agencies or private aerospace companies remotely.

How to become a remote spacecraft designer?

To become a remote spacecraft designer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required, along with experience in spacecraft systems and design software such as CAD tools. Developing skills in systems engineering, propulsion, and avionics, as well as gaining experience through internships or projects, can improve job prospects. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are also important for remote roles.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Spacecraft Design jobs in Virginia?

For Remote Spacecraft Design jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Spacecraft Design jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Spacecraft Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Spacecraft Design job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer / Mission Analyst

Stellar Solutions Inc

Chantilly, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Stellar Solutions, a nationally recognized “Great Place to Work”, has exciting opportunities providing Engineering solutions for innovative new-entrant space companies, as well as established space systems manufacturers, commercial space system operators and service providers, and other industry stakeholders including investors.  

At Stellar Solutions, we offer talented, energetic, and immediately productive resources to satisfy our customers’ critical needs in systems engineering and integration, mission operations, program management and strategic planning. We are a leading service and expertise provider for high-tech commercial ventures, spanning communications, earth observation and remote sensing systems and data products, to the infrastructures that support earth orbiting and beyond earth orbit businesses.

Stellar Solutions is seeking a Spacecraft Systems Engineer / Mission Analyst to support the design of multiple commercial space systems, including LEO constellations and novel space debris removal systems.


In this role, you will:

  • Review, assess, and contribute to spacecraft delta-V analyses, including orbit raising using low-thrust electric propulsion, orbital transfers, station-keeping, and end-of-mission disposal
  • Support modeling and mission planning for rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking with orbital targets
  • Review customer-generated mission analysis products and provide independent technical assessment, recommendations, and troubleshooting
  • Perform or augment mission analysis activities as needed to support program schedules and technical objectives
  • Provide spacecraft systems engineering expertise throughout spacecraft development, integration, and test
  • Apply subsystem and spacecraft-level operations expertise to evaluate spacecraft design and mission performance
  • Provide technical oversight and support coordination with spacecraft bus and payload integration partners
  • Model LEO constellations in support of ground coverage and contact analyses using STK or similar tools
  • Support technical trades, design reviews, troubleshooting, and resolution of spacecraft development, integration and test issues
  • Serve as a trusted technical advisor to the customer, identifying technical risks and helping guide engineering decisions throughout mission development and execution

Requirements:

  • BS in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
  • 5+ years of relevant experience in spacecraft systems engineering, mission analysis, GNC, spacecraft operations, or a related field
  • Experience performing or evaluating spacecraft mission and orbital analysis, including orbital maneuvers, transfers, station-keeping, or trajectory analysis
  • Working knowledge of Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) principles and spacecraft dynamics
  • Experience supporting spacecraft development, integration, test, and/or on-orbit operations
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate complex technical analyses, identify risks and issues, and provide sound engineering recommendations
  • Ability to work effectively with customers, spacecraft developers, and other technical stakeholders to resolve engineering issues and support technical decision-making
  • Experience with mission analysis and engineering tools such as MATLAB, Python, Excel, STK/Astrogator, GMAT, ODTK, or similar tools
  • Clearance: Secret with eligibility for TS
  • Travel: max 20% of time

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience with rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), docking, or relative motion analysis
  • Experience with low-thrust electric propulsion mission analysis and orbit raising
  • Experience providing technical oversight of spacecraft bus development, payload integration, or spacecraft suppliers
  • Experience in the analysis of LEO constellations and contact management
  • Clearance: active TS/SCI preferred

Location: VA or remote

In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for a comprehensive total rewards package that includes an annual performance bonus, an employer-funded Profit-Sharing Plan (PSP) contribution based on base compensation, and comprehensive employer-paid medical benefits, PTO pay-out options, along with additional company-sponsored benefits. All of these benefits represent an additional 30-40% to your base compensation for a total compensation package.


Help shape and execute first-of-their-kind commercial space missions, including spacecraft designed to rendezvous with and remove orbital debris from LEO. Apply mission analysis and spacecraft systems expertise from early design through integration, test, and operations while serving as a trusted technical advisor on complex mission and engineering decisions.