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Satcom Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sev1Tech is seeking a Commercial SATCOM SME to support the US Space Force, Space Operations Command ... Experience in systems engineering related field with a specialization in satellite communications ...

Sev1Tech is seeking a Commercial SATCOM SME to support the US Space Force, Space Operations Command ... Experience in systems engineering related field with a specialization in satellite communications ...

Sev1Tech is seeking a Commercial SATCOM SME to support the US Space Force, Space Operations Command ... Experience in systems engineering related field with a specialization in satellite communications ...

SATCOM Technician

Frederick, MD · On-site

$40.27 - $48.08/hr

Role Overview The SATCOM Technician will perform engineering activities supporting the Global Agile ... of systems. * Perform engineering assessments of new equipment and software upgrades for ...

The engineer will coordinate efforts, prioritize projects, support system integration, conduct lab ... Serve as SATCOM subject matter expert on modulation and coding, link budgets, antennas, waveforms ...

SATCOM Technician

Fort Detrick, MD · On-site

$40.27 - $48.08/hr

Role Overview The SATCOM Technician will perform engineering activities supporting the Global Agile ... of systems. * Perform engineering assessments of new equipment and software upgrades for ...

The Senior Systems Engineer will support the architecture, analysis, integration, and technical oversight of advanced SATCOM and tactical communications systems. The role requires strong technical ...

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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 May 30, 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 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 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.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Satcom Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers. Our employees are forward-thinking, self-directed individuals who are committed to solving our customers' technical challenges.
SSI is seeking an RF Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA, to provide Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) services to a Government Intelligence Community (IC) customer. In this position, you will support advanced satellite communications and ground terminal solutions. This role requires deep technical expertise in RF systems engineering, SATCOM, and network integration to enable resilient, high-performance communication systems for mission-critical applications.
Key Requirements
  • Perform end-to-end RF systems engineering, including link budget analysis, signal propagation studies, EIRP, G/T calculations, and noise figure optimization.
  • Support the design, integration, and validation of SATCOM systems across GEO, MEO, and LEO satellite constellations and waveform technologies.
  • Apply knowledge of mesh networking concepts such as dynamic routing, frequency reuse, and latency optimization.
  • Design, develop, and integrate ground terminal systems including RF front-ends, BUCs, LNBs, antennas, modems, and related hardware.
  • Analyze and optimize waveforms including QPSK, 8PSK, 16QAM, and Forward Error Correction (FEC) schemes for spectral efficiency and link robustness.
  • Apply antenna theory and design principles to phased arrays, parabolic reflectors, flat panel antennas, and systems requiring beam steering, polarization control, and precision tracking.
  • Collaborate on network protocol integration, ensuring smooth interoperability between SATCOM and terrestrial TCP/IP, VLAN, and QoS-based infrastructures.
  • Operate and interpret results from RF lab test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and related diagnostic tools.
  • Utilize Software Defined Radios (SDRs) and digital Intermediate Frequency (IF) architectures in both development and troubleshooting roles.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
  • Extensive hands-on experience in RF systems design and SATCOM engineering.
  • Familiarity with ground terminal design and satellite communication subsystems.
  • Strong working knowledge of modulation schemes, link budgets, and antenna system performance.
  • Experience with RF lab measurement tools and SDR platforms
  • Must possess an active Top Secret/SCI clearance and CI polygraph (polygraph within the last ten (10) years).
  • Willingness to travel up to 10%

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience supporting military or government communication systems.
  • Knowledge of mesh networking, advanced waveform optimization, and spectrum management.
  • Experience with digital IF, signal processing, and adaptive communications techniques.
  • Familiarity with non-traditional RF sensing technologies and methodologies.

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Space Systems Integration provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
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