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Satellite Communications Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$113.1K

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How much do satellite communications engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communications 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 communications engineer do?

A satellite communications engineer designs and provides technical support for hardware and software systems used to communicate with a satellite and track its location while it travels. This job requires you to design new communications systems, update existing ones to be more efficient, or instruct technicians on how to deploy equipment according to plans. You also have to ensure that communications equipment can project and receive signals with as little latency as possible. Another of your responsibilities as a satellite communications engineer is to test systems in a simulated environment before you develop and install them in a satellite pre-launch.

Are satellite communications engineers in demand?

Satellite communications engineers are in high demand due to the growing reliance on satellite technology for global communications, navigation, and data transfer. The industry values skills in RF engineering, signal processing, and satellite systems, with job opportunities expanding in telecommunications, defense, and aerospace sectors.

What are some common challenges satellite communications engineers face when troubleshooting signal issues?

Satellite Communications Engineers often encounter challenges such as signal interference, weather-related disruptions, and equipment malfunctions. Troubleshooting requires a systematic approach to isolate the root cause, which may involve analyzing link budgets, monitoring spectrum usage, and coordinating with both ground and satellite teams. Engineers must also stay up to date with evolving technology standards to ensure compatibility and optimize signal quality across diverse communication networks.
What cities are hiring for Satellite Communications Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Satellite Communications Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Communications Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Satellite Communications Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Satellite Communications Engineer jobs? The top employers for Satellite Communications Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Satellite Communications Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Satellite Communications Engineer jobs include:
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Infographic showing various Satellite Communications Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,057 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

RF Systems and Satellite Communications Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Are you experienced with RF systems design, analysis, and development for space and ground segments?

Are you a clear thinker with good interpersonal skills, and effective communications skills?

If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking an RF systems engineer to design, analyze and develop NASA and DoD 's next generation spacecraft. You 'll be joining a hard-working team of engineers who thrive on making critical contributions to our Nation's critical challenges. Our culture embraces our core values of unquestionable integrity, trusted service to our nation, world-class expertise, game-changing impact, highly collaborative, and even fun environment!

As an RF Systems Engineer you will...

  • You will perform conceptual systems design, simulation, link analysis, hardware trade studies, technical tradeoffs, and costing for satellite communications and RF system design concepts for both space and ground segments.
  • You will work with mission and spacecraft systems engineers, peer subsystem engineers and project management in overall mission development and execution from concept to launch, including technical concept design, requirements,development phases, technical reviews, budget development and schedule.
  • You will lead technical teams throughout the RF systems development cycle, including system concept, trade studies,prototype work, flight development, integration, and test.
  • You will assist project and program management in sponsor engagement.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have...

  • A BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
  • 5+ years direct experience in satellite RF communications and RF systems design, development, simulation (MATLAB,SystemVue, or equivalent) and operations.
  • Experience in RF hardware design and/or testing.
  • Are willing and able to accommodate: flexible hours for spacecraft level testing activities for short periods of time, infrequent travel to customer or sponsor locations as well as spacecraft integration and test sites.
  • Are able to obtain a Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have...

  • PhD degree in Electrical Engineering with previous RF systems design leadership experience.
  • Experience with software-defined radios SDR, antennas, RF characterization and measurements to Ka-band or beyond, Radar systems design, military satellite communications systems.
  • Ability to work independently without technical oversight.
  • Other key skills: Solid State Power Amplifier SSPA design, RF / microwave circuit design, Digital Signal Processing DSP, SIGINT, Precision Timing, and Time Transfer, Radar Design

#LI-KW1


About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually