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Satellite Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As a Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in satellite payload architecture, SAR payload development, SAR processing and image formation, and end-to ...

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Satellite Payload Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program supporting the National ...

Nightwing

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

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 ...

Nwis

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

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 ...

Elveo

Satellite Systems Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

The Satellite Operations Engineer at Elveo is a technical systems engineering position pivotal to ensuring the operational integrity and safety of the constellation of LEO satellites. Your primary ...

Lynk

Satellite Systems Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

The Satellite Operations Engineer at Elveo is a technical systems engineering position pivotal to ensuring the operational integrity and safety of the constellation of LEO satellites. Your primary ...

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How much do satellite engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for satellite engineer in Virginia is $63.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.05 and $73.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a satellite engineer do?

A Satellite Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains satellites and their components for various applications, including communications, weather monitoring, and defense. They work with advanced technologies such as propulsion systems, sensors, and communication payloads. Their role involves troubleshooting technical issues, ensuring satellite functionality, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize performance. Satellite Engineers may also support satellite launches and monitor operations once in orbit.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a satellite engineer?

To thrive as a Satellite Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with satellite communications systems, CAD software, RF analysis tools, and certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) can be highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These capabilities are vital for designing, testing, and maintaining reliable satellite systems in complex, multidisciplinary environments.

What are some of the main challenges satellite engineers face in their day-to-day work?

Satellite Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex technical issues and ensuring satellite performance in harsh space environments. They need to balance strict project timelines with rigorous safety and quality standards while coordinating with cross-functional teams like systems engineering, project management, and manufacturing. Additionally, they must stay up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies and regulatory requirements. Overcoming these challenges requires adaptability, strong technical expertise, and effective collaboration to successfully deliver reliable satellite solutions.

Are satellite engineers in demand?

Satellite engineers are in demand due to the growing reliance on satellite technology for communications, navigation, and earth observation. The industry requires skills in systems design, RF engineering, and satellite operations, with job opportunities increasing as satellite networks expand and modernize.

How much does a satellite engineer make?

Satellite engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in satellite systems and communications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Certifications and working in high-demand areas may also influence compensation.

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Engineer jobs in Virginia?

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

What job categories do people searching Satellite Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Satellite Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Satellite Engineer job openings:

Satellite Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,885 per year, or $63.4 per hour.

Satellite Payload Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613701
Location: Chantilly, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-07-07
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC is seeking a Satellite Payload Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program supporting the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.
Note: Qualified candidates must have an active Top Secret/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain a Poly to be considered.
As a Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in satellite payload architecture, SAR payload development, SAR processing and image formation, and end-to-end image chain performance. You will apply hands-on satellite hardware experience and radar payload system knowledge to assess performance, resolve issues, and ensure seamless integration across space and ground segments. You will also drive enterprise-level trade studies to define and refine requirements for future satellite capabilities, supporting mission success across the full lifecycle.
Job Responsibilities to include.
  • Evaluate satellite payload requirements compliance by working with the Prime contractor to analyze evidence, assess technical adequacy, and drive closure of open issues.
  • Review test plans and results to evaluate payload performance at the unit, subsystem, and system levels, including SAR and radar payload components.
  • Perform detailed analysis of SAR processing chains, image formation algorithms, calibration/validation data, and payload-to-ground data flow.
  • Assist with understanding and resolving anomalies, performing root cause analysis, and identifying corrective actions, including evaluating technical and schedule impacts.
  • Identify and assess emerging technical and programmatic risks at the enterprise, system, and subsystem levels, and collaborate with Prime and Subcontractor teams to develop and evaluate mitigation strategies.
  • Build and maintain productive relationships with Prime and Subcontractor counterparts, functional teams, and subject matter experts to ensure effective collaboration.
  • Evaluate entrance and exit criteria for major program reviews, such as Pre-Ship Reviews.
  • Support trade studies to define and further develop requirements for future satellite systems, including next-generation SAR and radar payload capabilities.

Qualifications
Required Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree and fourteen (14) or more years of relevant experience; Master's degree and twelve (12) or more years; PhD or JD and nine (9) or more years.
  • Active Top Secret /SCI with the ability to obtain a Poly
  • SAR Payload Development - experience supporting the design, development, integration, verification, or performance assessment of SAR payloads.
  • SAR Processing & Image Formation - strong understanding of SAR algorithms, image formation techniques, calibration/validation processes, and mission data processing chains.
  • Satellite Hardware- hands-on experience with payload hardware, test equipment, unit- or subsystem-level integration, environmental testing, or hardware troubleshooting.
  • Radar Payload Systems - experience in radar payload architectures, RF chains, waveform design, performance modeling, and radar-to-ground data interfaces.
  • Strong interpersonal, leadership, team-building, and analytical problem-solving skills, with demonstrated effectiveness in a government/contractor environment.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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