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Satellite Communication Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.

Fibertek, Inc

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA

$80K - $145K/yr

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter-satellite links (OISL) and direct to ...

Lynk

Wireless Engineer - Satellite

Chantilly, VA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in wireless communication, signal processing, and software engineering to drive innovation in next-generation satellite-based networks. Core ...

AdventHealth

Principal Space Engineer

Reston, VA

The Principal Space Engineer will be expected to lead various satellite communication RF ... engineering activities including designing and sustaining end-to-end satellite systems at all ...

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All JobsSatellite Communication Engineer JobsSatellite Communication Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Satellite Communication Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$62K

$112.1K

$162.1K

How much do satellite communication engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communication engineer in Virginia is $112,087.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,800.00 and $140,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 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 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 Virginia? For Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Satellite Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Satellite Communication Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Satellite Communication Engineer job openings:
Satellite Communication Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,087 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Satellite Communications Engineer

Leidos

Chantilly, VA

$131K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 481 rated business services

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

We're seeking a communications engineer to support mission-critical communications for national security and intelligence operations. You will conduct research, develop innovative solutions, and analyze advanced satellite communication systems to enable design, development, and integration for secure, reliable data, voice, or video transmissions.

EXPERIENCE

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • At least 12 or more years of experience in satellite communications engineering, preferably supporting defense or intelligence programs.
  • Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security applications.
  • Perform system-level analysis, link budget calculations, and simulations to optimize performance under operational constraints.
  • Integrate satellite communications with ground stations, mobile platforms, and other defense assets.
  • Analyze and resolve technical issues in deployed systems, including RF interference and encryption challenges.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including government and contractor personnel, to ensure mission success.
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, system architectures, and compliance records.
  • Support field testing, validation, and operational deployment of satellite communications hardware and software.
  • Provide technical briefings and training to stakeholders and end-users.
  • An active TS/SCI with a polygraph security clearance is required to be considered for this position. This position does not offer clearance sponsorship.

Desired:

  • Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.
  • Expertise in RF and microwave system design, signal processing, and satellite network engineering.
  • Experience in investigating and documenting existing system architectures for defense platforms.
  • Subject matter expertise in advanced system concepts related to aerospace, spacecraft, or military communications.
  • Experience with DoD acquisition processes and documentation.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:March 30, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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