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Satellite Communication Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astranis

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 ...

Nwis

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA ... Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communications * Can Equivalent Experience be ...

Nightwing

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA ... Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communications * Can Equivalent Experience be ...

Astranis

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA

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

Muon Space

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/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

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Satellite Communication Engineer information

See salary details

$62.5K

$113.1K

$163.5K

How much do satellite communication engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communication engineer 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 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 are hiring for Satellite Communication Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Satellite Communication Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Satellite Communication Engineer jobs?

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

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

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

Satellite Communication Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,057 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Principal Communication Engineer II

Austin, TX

CesiumAstro
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about CesiumAstroexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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 cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.

We are looking to add a Principal Communication System Engineer II to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft, and aerospace systems, we would like to hear from you.
 
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in systems engineering, experience in space technology, and the ability to be the technical point of contact for our communication programs. In this position, you will lead the development of space architecture concepts, sub-system design, payload design, requirements development, analysis and decomposition, high-level software and hardware system architecture design, concept of operations (CONOPS) development, and risk assessment. You will coordinate activities across multidisciplinary engineering teams, raise issues at the program level, and drive complex programs to success.
 
The successful candidate will communicate effectively with team members and internal stakeholders, both verbally and through written content.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Evaluate mission needs to define requirements, integrate technical parameters, and assure compatibility of all physical, functional and program interfaces.
  • Derive mission ConOps for space vehicle and constellation level architectures.
  • Support reviews of requests for proposals to support solution development and response.
  • Lead trade studies to optimize system architecture.
  • Define and validate space system requirements and interfaces.
  • Develop and direct technical concept development in support of proposals.
  • Lead development of space architecture concepts, sub-system design, payload design, ground station design, requirements development, analysis and decomposition, hardware system design, Link budget studies, gain line up, cascade analysis, array simulation studies, concept of operations (CONOPS) development, and risk reduction.
  • Select and define modem configuration.
  • Select and define data layer configuration.
  • Participate in developing system engineering processes for requirements management, flow down, and traceability.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • 11+ years of experience in space communications.
  • Very strong background in communication theory.  
  • Deep understanding of RF concept, impairments, and the resulting impacts.
  • Background and practical experience with FPGA & modern vector processing engines. 
  • Experience with and understanding of satellite-communications standards (NR NTN, DVB-S2x, CCSDS).  
  • Experience with at least one scripting and one programming language (ideally Python & C++). 
  • Experience working with product/component developers and vendors who provide critical functionality to the overall system.
  • Experience working with classified systems and red/black architectures for communications.
  • Experience with optical communications systems.
  • Ability to hold a security clearance.
  • Excellent written and verbal technical communication skills.
  • Ability to define work direction, track milestones, and demonstrate progress on large open-ended projects.
  • Sense of urgency, with the ability to work well under pressure. 
  • The ability to work well in teams, with peers and management. 
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.  
 
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.