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Satcom Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

SATCOM Systems Hardware Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... SAIC has an immediate opening for a SATCOM Systems Hardware Specialist to support a highly dynamic ...

SAIC

SATCOM Systems Hardware Specialist

Chantilly, VA

You will be a part of a large multi-year contract that supports our customer in systems engineering ... As a SATCOM hardware specialist on our team, you will apply your technical expertise, attention to ...

SAIC

SATCOM Systems Software Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

You will be a part of a large multi-year contract that supports our customer in systems engineering ... As a SATCOM software specialist on our team, you will apply your technical expertise, attention to ...

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Satcom Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do satcom systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for satcom systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Satcom Systems Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in satellite communication systems, and advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often involve leadership, complex project management, and working in defense or aerospace industries, sometimes requiring security clearances and long hours.

What engineers make $500,000?

Satcom Systems Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in satellite communication systems, and advanced certifications can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in senior or executive roles within defense, aerospace, or telecommunications industries. High compensation often reflects leadership responsibilities, security clearances, and working in high-demand environments.

What does a satcom engineer do?

A satcom systems engineer designs, develops, and maintains satellite communication systems, ensuring reliable data transmission between satellites and ground stations. They analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and may work with RF equipment, antennas, and signal processing tools. Strong technical knowledge and certifications in satellite communications are often required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Satcom Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

A Satcom Systems Engineer needs a solid background in electrical engineering, radio frequency (RF) theory, and satellite communications, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like MATLAB, satellite link analysis software, and certifications such as CCNA or CompTIA Network+ are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable satellite communication systems in complex and evolving environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Satcom Systems Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing satellite communication networks?

Satcom Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating emerging technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining signal integrity, and addressing security vulnerabilities. They must rigorously test new hardware or software to prevent disruptions to critical communication links. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including network engineers, software developers, and project managers—is essential to troubleshoot issues and ensure smooth implementation. Staying updated on industry standards and best practices helps mitigate integration risks and supports successful deployments.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

For a Satcom Systems Engineer, earning $150,000 or more annually typically requires extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often a senior or managerial role. High-paying positions may involve overseeing satellite communication projects, working in specialized industries like defense or aerospace, or holding certifications such as CISSP or PMP. Salaries vary based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What is the difference between Satcom Systems Engineer vs Satellite Communications Technician?

AspectSatcom Systems EngineerSatellite Communications Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like CCNA, CompTIA Network+Technical diploma or associate degree, certifications like CompTIA A+ or Satellite Certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and oversee satellite communication systems, often in offices or labsInstall, maintain, and repair satellite equipment on-site or in field locations
Employer & IndustryTelecommunications companies, defense contractors, aerospace firmsSatellite service providers, installation companies, maintenance firms

While both roles involve satellite communications, Satcom Systems Engineers focus on designing and integrating systems, whereas Satellite Communications Technicians handle installation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry and often collaborate to ensure reliable communication services.

What does a Satcom Systems Engineer do?

A Satcom Systems Engineer designs, develops, and maintains satellite communication systems that enable the transmission of data, voice, and video between remote locations. They are responsible for integrating hardware and software components, ensuring signal integrity, and troubleshooting technical issues related to satellite communication networks. These engineers work on both ground segment and space segment equipment and often collaborate with other engineering teams to support mission-critical operations. Their expertise is vital for industries such as telecommunications, defense, and broadcasting.
More about Satcom Systems Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Satcom Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Satcom Systems Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Satcom Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Satcom Systems Engineer jobs are:
Satcom Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satcom Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
SATCOM Systems Hardware Specialist

SATCOM Systems Hardware Specialist

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 204 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2611149

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-04-10

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is a premier Fortune 500 technology integrator driving our nation’s technology transformation. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, civilian and intelligence markets include secure high-end solutions in engineering, digital, artificial intelligence and mission solutions. Using our expertise and understanding of existing and emerging technologies, we integrate the best components from our own portfolio and our partner ecosystem to deliver innovative, effective and efficient solutions that are critical to achieving our customers’ missions.

SAIC has an immediate opening for a SATCOM Systems Hardware Specialist to support a highly dynamic and growing program with one of our US Government customers. You will be a part of a large multi-year contract that supports our customer in systems engineering and integration across a broad portfolio of projects. You will come into a program that enjoys a close working relationship with the customer, bringing exquisite technical expertise to bear on real world problems, helping the customer execute real world missions that impact National Security on a daily basis. This close relationship, along with the program's longevity (20 years), ensures that as a new team member you will find a depth of support to grow and develop that is unmatched, all while making a difference - daily.

As a SATCOM hardware specialist on our team, you will apply your technical expertise, attention to detail, and curiosity to develop actionable intelligence for our customers. You will play a critical role in developing an understanding of the operational environment.

You will work in a dynamic environment and leverage experience with the RF intelligence and production cycle to support the planning for and collection of signals data. You will perform research and analysis of complex digital communications systems and support the processing and exploitation of signals collected from various sources.

You will prepare and present briefings on requirements, capabilities, and project status for a variety of audiences, including senior executives, provide operational guidance, and successfully engage with organizations from across the IC and Department of Defense.  You must have a strong record of achievement, familiarity with operational procedures and regulations, and ability to work well with stakeholders from various organizations on an integrated, multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or commensurate experience can be substituted for the degree
  • Must currently hold a TS/SCI with Poly to be considered
  • 10 years or more experience in the design, use or production of SATCOM hardware systems and/or their associated launch vehicles and ground-based communications infrastructure
  • Experience with various SATCOM and weapons systems, associated programs, modeling & simulation
  • Experience with telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C)
  • Exposure to data analysis and enterprise data systems

  • Experience with terrestrial communications, data circuits and general networking

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