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Satellite Communication Engineer Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Tetra Tech AMT is looking for a Satellite Systems Engineer or Satellite Communications Engineer to ... Familiarity with aviation navigation systems Salary: $150,000 to $180,000 annually. Compensation is ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Tetra Tech AMT is looking for a Satellite Systems Engineer or Satellite Communications Engineer to ... Familiarity with aviation navigation systems Salary: $150,000 to $180,000 annually. Compensation is ...

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ... The annual base salary range for this position is $80,000-$145,000. This range reflects the ...

$80 - $120/hr

We operate data and voice communications via satellite and data networks - worldwide and in space ... To strengthen our Systems Engineering team, we are looking for an experienced Systems Engineer ...

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$44 - $49/hr

Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent requirements ... Role * Collaborate with engineers to create, test, and execute satellite operations procedures ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA ... Salary & Benefits The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA ... Salary & Benefits The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with ...

At CesiumAstro , we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and ...

At CesiumAstro , we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and ...

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $40/hr

In addition, you will be interacting with the engineering teams to perform special operations ... Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with a collaborative approach to problem-solving

Showing results 21-40

Satellite Communication Engineer Salary information

See salary details

$62.5K

$113.1K

$163.5K

How much do satellite communication engineer salary jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communication engineer salary in the United States is $113,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $142,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary of a satellite communication engineer?

The average salary of a Satellite Communication Engineer varies based on experience, education, location, and industry. In the United States, entry-level positions typically start around $70,000 to $80,000 per year, while experienced engineers can earn between $100,000 and $130,000 annually. Salaries can be higher in certain regions or with specialized expertise in satellite technologies. Additionally, working for government agencies, defense contractors, or major telecommunications companies may offer higher compensation and benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a satellite communication engineer?

To thrive as a Satellite Communication Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or telecommunications engineering, with expertise in RF systems, signal processing, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with satellite communication protocols, network management tools, and certifications such as CCNA or vendor-specific credentials are commonly expected. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure reliable satellite operations, efficient troubleshooting, and the ability to collaborate on complex projects essential for global communication networks.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a satellite communication engineer?

Satellite Communication Engineers often start in hands-on technical roles, working on system design, integration, and troubleshooting. With experience, they can advance to senior engineering positions, project management roles, or specialize in areas like network architecture or RF engineering. Some professionals move into leadership roles overseeing larger engineering teams or transition into consultancy positions. Continuous learning and obtaining certifications in satellite technology or network security can further enhance career growth prospects.

What is the difference between Satellite Communication Engineer Salary vs RF Engineer?

AspectSatellite Communication EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Electronics, certifications in satellite systemsBachelor's in Electrical/Electronics, certifications in RF and wireless systems
Work EnvironmentSatellite ground stations, communication companiesTelecom, defense, wireless device manufacturing
Industry UsageSatellite service providers, aerospaceWireless carriers, defense contractors

Both roles require similar technical credentials and often work in related environments within the telecommunications industry. Satellite Communication Engineers typically focus on satellite systems and ground stations, while RF Engineers specialize in radio frequency design and testing. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and industry demand, but both roles are vital in the communication sector.

Are satellite communication engineers in demand?

Satellite communication engineers are in demand due to the growing reliance on satellite technology for telecommunications, navigation, and data transfer. The industry requires expertise in RF systems, signal processing, and satellite networks, with job opportunities increasing as satellite constellations expand and new applications emerge.

How much do satellite communication engineers get paid?

Satellite communication engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like aerospace and defense.

What does a satellite communication engineer do?

A satellite communication engineer designs, develops, and maintains satellite systems used for data transmission, television broadcasting, and internet services. They work with RF (radio frequency) equipment, signal processing, and communication protocols, often using specialized software and tools. The role requires knowledge of satellite technology, networking, and often involves troubleshooting and optimizing satellite links to ensure reliable communication.
More about Satellite Communication Engineer Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Satellite Communication Engineer Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Satellite Communication Engineer Salary job openings:

What states have the most Satellite Communication Engineer Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Satellite Communication Engineer Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Engineer Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,057 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Satellite Communication Systems-Technical Staff

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Lexington, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Tactical Satellite Communications Group is developing technologies and analysis for some of the most advanced communication systems in the world.  The Group is involved in a synergistic combination of research, prototyping, and experimentation efforts focused on the goals of enhancing the capability and robustness of future generations of communications satellites and systems.

Current research areas draw from advanced knowledge of Information Theory, Communication Theory, Network Theory, Array Processing, Estimation and Detection, Machine Learning, Antennas and Arrays, Dynammic Resource Allocation, and Optimization.  Promising research results are verified in hardware and software prototypes that provide quantitative performance data in relevant environments. Exceptional candidates seeking to become experts in these fields and advance the state of technology are encouraged to apply.

Position Description

Selected candidates will actively participate in the design, analysis, implementation, and demonstration of novel communications waveforms, signal processing algorithms, resource allocation schemes, SATCOM system architectures, antennas and arrays, media access protocols, and networking protocols. The individual will typically work in multi-disciplinary teams in which team members possess expertise in communications theory, networking, information assurance, systems engineering, antennas and arrays, digital hardware, and software defined radio. The individual will have opportunities to work with the government, academia, and industry as well as make contributions towards DoD policy, requirements, acquisition, systems engineering, and operations.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (or related field) with a strong background in wireless communications and signal processing. In lieu of a Ph.D., an M.S. with 3+ years of directly relevant experience is acceptable. 
  • Experience and/or coursework in wireless communications theory, information theory, digital signal processing, estimation and detection, optimization, radio frequency propagation modeling, linear algebra.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, C/C++ or other equivalent modeling and simulation tools.
  • Highly effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Machine learning, adaptive filtering, array processing, media access control protocols, networking
  • Fixed point algorithm design and implementation targeting embedded processors such as FPGA, GPU, DSP
  • Antennas, arrays, and radio frequency circuits
  • Software Defined Radio
  • Software Defined Networking
  • Demonstrated ability to plan and manage tasks and projects

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200-$170,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200-$220,000

 

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including-but not limited to-the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
  • MIT-funded pension
  • Matching 401K
  • Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
  • Mentorship programs
  • A range of work-life balance options
  • ... and much more!  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

Requisition ID: 42731 

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