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Satellite Communication Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Senior FPGA Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Implementing and contributing to the architecture of next generation satellite communication ... Comfort working closely with HW/RF engineering specialties on design and configuration for RF ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site +1

$91K - $159K/yr

We bring innovation, integration and intelligence to satellite-based IP communications that ... Supporting system integration and Test Engineering to produce functional design * Implementing and ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site +1

$91K - $159K/yr

We bring innovation, integration and intelligence to satellite-based IP communications that ... Supporting system integration and Test Engineering to produce functional design * Implementing and ...

We bring innovation, integration and intelligence to satellite-based IP communications that ... Supporting system integration and Test Engineering to produce functional design * Implementing and ...

RF Antenna Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Minimum of five (5) years of experience in antenna systems, RF engineering, satellite communications, wireless communications, or related technologies. * Experience designing, integrating, testing ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Satellite communications protocols such as DVB-S2 and TDMA * Networking protocols such as TCP/IP ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software, Systems, Mathematics, or ...

RF Systems Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Understanding of satellite communication systems * Knowledge of RF safety and exposure standards

RF Systems Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$125 - $150/hr

SIMILAR CAREER TITLESRF Design Engineer, RF Test Engineer, Microwave Engineer, Communications ... Understanding of satellite communication systems * Knowledge of RF safety and exposure standards

RF Systems Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Understanding of satellite communication systems * Knowledge of RF safety and exposure standards

RF Systems Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Understanding of satellite communication systems * Knowledge of RF safety and exposure standards

RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking an innovative and detail-oriented RF Systems Engineer to ... Understanding of satellite communication systems * Knowledge of RF safety and exposure standards

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 8, 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 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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Satellite Communication Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,087 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Satellite Systems Engineer

Nightwing Technologies, LLC

Sterling, VA โ€ข On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide Tier 2/3 network support, terminal maintenance, repair, managing spares and component repair and return process, equipment inventory, testing, and carrier management to ensure reliable operational readiness of satellite communication systems.

  • Manage and analyze satellite carriers using digital spectrum analyzers, including measuring and calculating carrier characteristics such as C/kt, C+N/N, and C+N/No, to maintain optimal satellite network performance.

  • Orchestrate annual field terminal characterizations and monitor the status of support infrastructure such as radomes, equipment shelters, deicers, blowers, emergency power systems, and HVAC systems.


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customersโ€™ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.Nightwing is seeking a cleared and experienced Satellite Systems Engineer in the Fairfax VA area in support of USG. The seclected candidate will provide Tier 2/3 network support, terminal maintenance, repair, managing spares and component repair and return process, equipment inventory, testing, carrier management. And any/all additional tasking that ensures the reliable operational readiness for all associated systems within this global satellite communications network.This position requires a seasoned Satellite Systems Engineer who has had at least 6 years of experience in managing satellite communications networks. Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA operations, BPSK, QAM encoding schemes and how they relate to carrier characteristics i.e EB/No; BER; satellite power and bandwidth consumption. Must be familiar with WGS and commercial satellite operations utilizing both heavy terminals, network field terminals and quick reactionary tactical systems. He/she also must be well versed on carrier analysis utilizing state of art digital spectrum analyzers to determine nominal carriers from distorted or irregular carriers. He/she must understand and be able to measure/calculate C/kt, C+N/N and C+N/No as well as terminal G/T and EIRP.Additional responsibilities include orchestrating annual field terminal characterizations utilizing existing remote capabilities. Also he/she will be responsible for status monitoring of all surrounding support infrastructure i.e. radome; equipment shelters; deicers, blowers; emergency power systems; associated HVAC systems.Required Skills:6+ years of experience managing/operating satellite communication networksExperience with federal government communication networksDesired Skills:Experienced in operation/configuration of an I-direct subnetsExperienced in OCONUS travel/field environmentAdditional Requirements:Additional Technical and Specialty Training/Certifications Etc.Years of Experience Required: 6+Education Level/Major: Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communicationsCan Equivalent Experience be Substituted for Educational Requirement (Yes/No): Yes, 6+ years of hands-on experience in RF/satellite systemsWeapons Certification Required (Yes/No): NoProfessional License or Certification Required (Yes/No) / Type: NoOCONUS TDY Required (Yes/No) / %: No**CONUS TDY Required (Yes/No) / %: No**Must be a US Citizen and have an active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph from day one of employment and be crossover eligiblePreviously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nationโ€™s most mission impactful initiatives.When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the worldโ€™s most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions.At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. Youโ€™ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, weโ€™ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.** Travel requirements/amount and duration are subject to the needs of the Customer and may be more or less than what is listed.Salary & BenefitsThe salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected candidateโ€™s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class. #J-18808-Ljbffr