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Satellite Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

... systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program ... As a Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in ...

Nightwing

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communications * Can Equivalent Experience be Substituted for Educational Requirement (Yes/No): Yes, 6+ years of hands-on experience in RF/satellite ...

Nwis

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communications * Can Equivalent Experience be Substituted for Educational Requirement (Yes/No): Yes, 6+ years of hands-on experience in RF/satellite ...

SAIC

Satellite Program Manager

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The Satellite SETA Program Manager must possess, and have successfully demonstrated, Contracts ...

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Satellite Engineering information

What is the difference between Satellite Engineering vs Satellite Systems Technician?

AspectSatellite EngineeringSatellite Systems Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, certifications in satellite systemsTechnical diploma or associate degree, specialized training in satellite maintenance
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, field testingOn-site satellite installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Employer & IndustrySatellite manufacturers, aerospace companies, defense contractorsTelecommunications providers, satellite service companies

Satellite Engineering involves designing, developing, and testing satellite systems, requiring advanced engineering skills and certifications. In contrast, Satellite Systems Technicians focus on installing, maintaining, and repairing satellite equipment in the field. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry but differ in responsibilities, qualifications, and work environments.

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, signal processing, and satellite operations, with job opportunities increasing in aerospace and defense sectors. Certifications in aerospace engineering and experience with satellite systems can enhance employability.

How much does a satellite engineer make?

Satellite engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in satellite systems, communications, or aerospace engineering tend to have higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Certifications and working in high-demand regions can also influence compensation levels.

What does a satellite engineer do?

A satellite engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains satellite systems used for communication, navigation, and Earth observation. They work with hardware, software, and ground control systems, often requiring knowledge of aerospace engineering, electronics, and programming. The role involves troubleshooting technical issues and ensuring satellite performance throughout its operational life.

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Engineering jobs in Washington?

For Satellite Engineering jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Satellite Engineering jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Engineering jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Satellite Engineering jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Satellite Engineering job openings:

Satellite Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Engineering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Satellite Payload Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
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.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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