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Satellite Communication Engineer Jobs in Virginia

iDirect GOVERNMENT

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

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 ...

iDirect GOVERNMENT

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

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 ...

iDirect GOVERNMENT

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80 - $100/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 ...

iDirect GOVERNMENT

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$70K - $123K/yr

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 ...

SES

Engineer, Satellite Platform Engineering

Mclean, VA · On-site

Engineer, Satellite Platform Engineering The Engineer, Satellite Engineering is part of an EU and ... Effective Communication - Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to convey ...

MAG Aerospace

$100 - $125/hr

Configure and optimize diverse communication channels (satellite, RF, cellular) * Design quality of ... Required Qualifications * 5+ years network engineering experience * Strong understanding of TCP/IP ...

MAG Aerospace

Network / Communications Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

Configure and optimize diverse communication channels (satellite, RF, cellular) * Design quality of ... Required Qualifications * 5+ years network engineering experience * Strong understanding of TCP/IP ...

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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 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:

Satellite Communication Engineer jobs near you
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.

Embedded Software Engineer

iDirect GOVERNMENT

Herndon, VA • On-site, Remote

$70K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a professional Embedded Software Engineer, a team player with solid technical skills to add to our core engineering team. Candidates must have a strong technical background and be capable of coming up to speed on new technologies quickly. Good communication skills, great problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both individually and collaboratively in a team environment are required. If you enjoy working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with the smartest team and the very latest technologies, then this is the job for you!

iDirect Government is a leading ground systems provider to the military satellite industry. We offer platforms connecting a variety of satellite constellations with an array of remote terminals. Terminals are installed on aircraft, maritime vessels, and other ground-based military and government assets. These terminals provide internet and voice capabilities to remote and austere locations.

This is a cross-functional engineering position, developing embedded software for our satellite products on a Linux platform.

This position is based in Herndon, VA.


  • Develop the C++ applications that control our next generation of satellite terminals
  • Design, code, test, and integrate software from requirements to production and commercial deployment
  • Assist with the estimation of time and effort required to implement new features
  • Participate in design reviews, peer code reviews, and improve product quality
  • Interface and work with cross-functional teams to successfully implement feature dependencies
  • Integrate and validate new product designs
  • Act as a member of an Agile scrum team

  • 4+ years of experience in software development
  • Understanding of hardware design and architecture
  • Solid programming experience in C/C++ object-oriented design and development
  • Linux or a POSIX O/S environment
  • Familiarity with software configuration management, defect tracking tools, and peer review
  • Strong documentation and writing skills

Additional experience in the following areas is a plus:

  • Embedded development including hardware debug, device drivers, and real-time constraints in a complex multi-processor system
  • Cross-functional (hardware/firmware/software) development and verification
  • Knowledge of satellite communication protocols
  • Satellite communications protocols such as DVB-S2 and TDMA
  • Networking protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP and IPv6
  • 509 Certificate and Crypto key management
  • Shell scripting, Perl, Lua, or Python
  • Docker, Conan, cmake, C++11
  • Knowledge of Jira, Confluence, BitBucket, Git, SharePoint, Jenkins and Artifactory is a plus
  • Working knowledge of GCC, grep/awk/sed command line tools, bash scripting, GDB debugger, systemd suite

Education

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software, Systems, Mathematics, or related technical field/experience

Clearance

  • Active DoD clearance or ability to obtain a DoD clearance

Travel

  • 0-10%

Pay Range: $70,769 - $123,818

The iDirect Government salary range for this position is intended to provide a general guideline for compensation. Actual compensation may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the duties and responsibilities of the role, education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and other business or legal considerations. The posted range is not a guarantee of compensation.

iDirect Government is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or protected veteran status. 

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