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Satellite Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, aerospace engineering, or related field. * At least 12 or more years of experience in satellite communications engineering, preferably ...

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, aerospace engineering, or related field. * At least 12 or more years of experience in satellite communications engineering, preferably ...

SAIC

Satellite Subsystem System Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Aerospace Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes ... We are seeking a Satellite Subsystem Systems Engineer to serve as a team member on a ...

SAIC

Satellite Subsystem System Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

... engineering & integration, and beyond. We are seeking a Satellite Subsystem Systems Engineer to serve as a team member on a state-of-the-art space program that continuously operates in all phases of ...

Viasat, Inc.

Student Satellite Pilot

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$28.37 - $42.79/hr

The day-to-day Working alongside a Viasat's Lead Satellite Control Engineer, you will: * Monitor and command the Viasat fleet of satellites. * Help operate and conduct daily functions to support the ...

Viasat, Inc.

Student Satellite Pilot

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$28.37 - $42.79/hr

The day-to-day Working alongside a Viasat's Lead Satellite Control Engineer, you will: * Monitor and command the Viasat fleet of satellites. * Help operate and conduct daily functions to support the ...

Viasat, Inc.

Student Satellite Pilot

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$28.37 - $42.79/hr

The day-to-day Working alongside a Viasat's Lead Satellite Control Engineer, you will: * Monitor and command the Viasat fleet of satellites. * Help operate and conduct daily functions to support the ...

Viasat, Inc.

Student Satellite Pilot

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$28.37 - $42.79/hr

The day-to-day Working alongside a Viasat's Lead Satellite Control Engineer, you will: * Monitor and command the Viasat fleet of satellites. * Help operate and conduct daily functions to support the ...

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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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In satellite engineering, high-paying roles such as satellite systems engineers or project managers can earn around $10,000 per month, especially with extensive experience and specialized skills. These positions often require strong technical knowledge, certifications, and experience working with satellite technology and related tools, but may not always require a formal degree if skills are demonstrated through work history and certifications.

What does a satellite engineer do?

A satellite engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains satellite systems and components, ensuring they operate correctly in space. They work with hardware, software, and communication systems, often using specialized tools and adhering to industry standards. The role requires knowledge of aerospace engineering, electronics, and often involves working in a team environment with strict safety and quality protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Satellite Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Satellite Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or aerospace engineering, satellite communications, and orbital mechanics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, RF analysis tools, and satellite control systems, as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and resolving technical challenges. These skills ensure the reliable design, launch, and operation of satellites, which are critical for mission success and safety.

What is satellite engineering?

Satellite engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, testing, and operation of satellites and related systems. It involves disciplines such as aerospace, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering to ensure that satellites can perform their intended functions, such as communication, navigation, or earth observation. Satellite engineers work on subsystems like power, propulsion, thermal control, and telecommunications, coordinating efforts to launch and maintain satellites in orbit. This field is crucial for modern communications, scientific research, weather forecasting, and global positioning systems.

How much do satellite engineers get paid?

Satellite engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in satellite systems, RF engineering, or satellite payload design can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior satellite engineers with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large aerospace companies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires specialized knowledge in satellite systems, RF engineering, or systems integration.

What are some common challenges faced by satellite engineers when working on satellite launches and in-orbit operations?

Satellite engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring systems reliability under extreme environmental conditions, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams across time zones, and troubleshooting issues remotely once the satellite is in orbit. They must also work within strict timelines and regulatory requirements, especially during launch preparations. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as quick, collaborative responses to unexpected anomalies can be critical to mission success.
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Satellite Engineering jobs near you
Satellite Communications Engineer

Satellite Communications Engineer

Leidos

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 429 rated business services

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
We're seeking a communications engineer to support mission-critical communications for national security and intelligence operations. You will conduct research, develop innovative solutions, and analyze advanced satellite communication systems to enable design, development, and integration for secure, reliable data, voice, or video transmissions.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, aerospace engineering, or related field.
  • At least 12 or more years of experience in satellite communications engineering, preferably supporting defense or intelligence programs.
  • Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security applications.
  • Perform system-level analysis, link budget calculations, and simulations to optimize performance under operational constraints.
  • Integrate satellite communications with ground stations, mobile platforms, and other defense assets.
  • Analyze and resolve technical issues in deployed systems, including RF interference and encryption challenges.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including government and contractor personnel, to ensure mission success.
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, system architectures, and compliance records.
  • Support field testing, validation, and operational deployment of satellite communications hardware and software.
  • Provide technical briefings and training to stakeholders and end-users.
  • An active TS/SCI with a polygraph security clearance is required to be considered for this position. This position does not offer clearance sponsorship.

Desired:
  • Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.
  • Expertise in RF and microwave system design, signal processing, and satellite network engineering.
  • Experience in investigating and documenting existing system architectures for defense platforms.
  • Subject matter expertise in advanced system concepts related to aerospace, spacecraft, or military communications.
  • Experience with DoD acquisition processes and documentation.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
March 30, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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