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Satellite Communication Engineer Jobs in California

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 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

Collaborate with engineers to create, test, and execute satellite operations procedures, including launch, early operations, orbit raising, and nominal sustainment operations procedures * Monitor ...

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

Design and develop wireless communication systems for satellite platforms, including RF subsystems ... Collaborate with systems engineering to define communication system requirements and trade studies

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Showing results 1-20

Satellite Communication Engineer information

See California salary details

$61.7K

$111.6K

$161.4K

How much do satellite communication engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communication engineer in California is $111,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $140,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a satellite communication engineer do?

A Satellite Communication Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining communication systems that use satellites to transmit and receive data, voice, and video signals. They work on the technical aspects of satellite networks, including uplink and downlink frequencies, modulation schemes, and ground station equipment. Their work ensures reliable and efficient communication for applications such as television broadcasting, internet access, military operations, and disaster response. Satellite Communication Engineers also troubleshoot issues, monitor system performance, and may be involved in the development of new technologies to improve satellite communications.

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 solid background in electrical or telecommunications engineering, strong knowledge of RF (radio frequency) principles, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with satellite ground station equipment, modulation/demodulation systems, and industry certifications such as CCNA or SATCOM-specific credentials are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills set standout professionals apart. These skills are crucial for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex satellite communication systems that ensure reliable global connectivity.

What are some common challenges satellite communication engineers face when working with ground station equipment?

Satellite Communication Engineers often encounter challenges such as signal interference, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining reliable connectivity in adverse weather conditions. Troubleshooting these issues requires a strong understanding of RF systems and the ability to collaborate with network and hardware teams. Additionally, staying updated on the latest satellite protocols and regulatory requirements is essential for ensuring compliance and optimal performance. Effective communication with operations and support staff is key to resolving issues quickly and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Satellite Communication Engineer vs Satellite Systems Technician?

AspectSatellite Communication EngineerSatellite Systems Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related field; certifications like CCNA, Cisco, or RF certificationsDiploma or associate degree in Electronics or Telecommunications; technical certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and oversee satellite communication systems; often in offices or labsInstall, maintain, and repair satellite equipment; fieldwork and on-site troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom companies, satellite service providers, aerospace firmsSatellite service providers, telecom companies, maintenance firms

Satellite Communication Engineers focus on designing and developing satellite systems, requiring higher education and certifications. In contrast, Satellite Systems Technicians handle installation and maintenance tasks, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in California?

For Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Satellite Communication Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Satellite Communication Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,577 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Senior Optical Communication Engineer, Amazon Leo for Government

Amazon

Northridge, CA • On-site

$112K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7,124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Amazon Leo is an initiative to launch a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites that will provide low-latency, high-speed broadband connectivity to unserved and underserved communities around the world.
The Amazon Leo for Government (ALG) Engineering team is a multi-disciplinary technology team involved in developing and delivering targeted and scalable solutions for custom satellite and ground applications. The ALG Engineering team works closely with the core LEO team, and addresses the needs of specific customers (such as government agencies). The Senior Optical Communication Engineer will play a pivotal role in the team delivering innovative and fast-paced analysis and design for both space and ground optical systems and sub-systems


As a Senior Optical Communications Engineer you will play a crucial role developing satellite communication systems, optical satellite links, digital signal processing and networking between both space-to-space and space-to-ground systems. Working with a dynamic team of cross discipline engineers, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining optical communication devices with bus agnostic interfaces, space-to-ground capabilities, tunable modems, long range backhaul performance, and seamless integration of unique waveforms. We provide engineering solutions for achieving free space optical communication systems.

We work hand in hand with hardware, software, product and operations teams to deliver solutions that seek to extract more capability from our baseline and onboard new technologies into our next generation systems.
The Senior Optical Communications Engineer will play a pivotal role on the Amazon Leo for Government Engineering team delivering innovative and fast-paced free space Optical Communication solutions.
Key job responsibilities
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define optical communication system requirements and architecture for our satellite constellation.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define optical communication system requirements and architecture for our satellite constellation.
Develop and optimize optical communication system hardware and software components, for real time communication ensuring efficient resource utilization and reliable performance.
Implement and test product designs that demonstrate functional and performance capabilities
Contribute to system integration efforts, working closely with hardware engineer to ensure seamless interaction between software and hardware components.
Participate in reviews, identify areas for improvement, and maintain high standards to ensure optical communication system quality and reliability.
Debug and troubleshoot software and hardware integration issues, employing tools and techniques to identify and resolve anomalies.
Collaborate on designing and executing test plans to validate the functionality, performance, and security of optical communication systems
Keep up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies, and apply relevant advancements to enhance the performance and capabilities of Amazon Leo's optical communication systems.
Security Clearance: Candidates may be required to obtain and maintain a US Government security clearance of TS/SCI, so you must be a U.S. citizen for consideration


This position requires that the candidate selected be a U.S. Citizen in order to comply with U.S. government-imposed requirements related to the nature of the work and/or where it will be performed.
This position requires that the candidate selected be a US Citizen and candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a US Government security clearance of TS/SCI.
A day in the life
As a Senior Optical Communication Engineer you will be responsible for leading the design, development and implementation of unique solutions to integrate and interoperate with Amazon Leo products and customer terminals

You will work in a collaborative environment with teams inside and outside of Amazon. You implement industry best practices while you guide the designs from requirements gathering through deployment. This role is hands on and will require an ability to build and test hardware and software optical communication systems.

You will need to be flexible and responsive to high priority issues


What Amazon employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate, computer and electronic product manufacturing and software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US