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Satellite Ground Station Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The day-to-day As a Satellite Ground Station Field Service Engineer with Viasat, you will be an integral part of a skilled team supporting growth in the Technical Services organization within our ...

The day-to-day As a Satellite Ground Station Field Service Engineer with Viasat, you will be an integral part of a skilled team supporting growth in the Technical Services organization within our ...

Ground Software Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$120K - $190K/yr

Knowledge of satellite ground systems, including ground station networking, antenna interfaces, and ... Strong programming and scripting skills (Python, C++ preferred) * Experience with DevOps tools and ...

You will work directly with external Ground Station-as-a-Service (GSaaS) providers, Satellite ... Systems Engineering: Compile and maintain ground segment Interface Control Documents (ICDs) from ...

You will work directly with external Ground Station-as-a-Service (GSaaS) providers, Satellite ... Systems Engineering: Compile and maintain ground segment Interface Control Documents (ICDs) from ...

With proven capability in Satellite communications, and antennas, Viasat is able to provide ... Direct experience conducting analysis for ground stations - namely G/T and EIRP * Direct experience ...

With proven capability in Satellite communications, and antennas, Viasat is able to provide ... Direct experience conducting analysis for ground stations - namely G/T and EIRP * Direct experience ...

With proven capability in Satellite communications, and antennas, Viasat is able to provide ... Direct experience conducting analysis for ground stations - namely G/T and EIRP * Direct experience ...

Senior Satellite/Ground System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$108K - $147K/yr

Preferred mission operational experience and/or technical experience in support of ground station ... engineering, and government acquisitions of Space/Satellite Systems within the Satellite Control ...

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Satellite Ground Station Engineer information

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$59K

$137.3K

$196.5K

How much do satellite ground station engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite ground station engineer in the United States is $137,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $196,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a satellite ground station engineer?

Satellite Ground Station Engineers are professionals who design, maintain, and operate the ground-based infrastructure that communicates with satellites. They ensure reliable data transmission, track satellite positions, troubleshoot equipment, and manage signal integrity. Their work is critical for applications such as telecommunications, broadcasting, weather monitoring, and space missions. These engineers typically have expertise in radio frequency (RF) systems, network protocols, and satellite communication technology.

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

To thrive as a Satellite Ground Station Engineer, you need a strong background in electronics, telecommunications, and RF engineering, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with satellite communication protocols, ground station control software, and equipment such as antennas and modulators is essential, and certifications like CCNA or related RF certifications are valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you quickly resolve technical issues and coordinate with operations teams. These skills ensure reliable satellite communication, minimal downtime, and efficient ground station performance, which are vital for mission success.

What are some common challenges faced by satellite ground station engineers during satellite pass operations?

Satellite Ground Station Engineers often face challenges such as maintaining precise antenna alignment during satellite passes, managing signal interference, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions in real-time. These operations require quick problem-solving skills and close coordination with mission control teams to ensure uninterrupted data transmission. Additionally, engineers must be prepared to work varying hours, as satellite passes can occur at any time of day or night, making adaptability an important aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Satellite Ground Station Engineer vs Satellite Communications Technician?

AspectSatellite Ground Station EngineerSatellite Communications Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications like CompTIA Satellite or RF certificationsAssociate's degree or technical diploma, certifications like Cisco or RF technician certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, maintain, and troubleshoot ground station systems in control centers or field sitesInstall, repair, and maintain satellite communication equipment often on-site or in the field
Industry UsageUsed by satellite operators, telecom companies, and defense agenciesEmployed by service providers, installation companies, and maintenance firms

The Satellite Ground Station Engineer focuses on designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting ground station systems, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, the Satellite Communications Technician primarily handles installation and repair of satellite equipment, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in satellite communication operations but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Ground Station Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Satellite Ground Station Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,309 per year, or $66 per hour.

Satellite Ground Station Engineer

Duluth, GA • On-site

Viasat, Inc.
Telecommunications • 5 - 10K employees

$102K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Viasat rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About us
One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.
What you'll do
Installing and maintaining the ground elements of a space program involves hands-on field work that directly supports our customer's space operations. Field Service Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring the continuous success of our advanced satellite communications equipment, which allows our customers to maintain constant communication with one another.
The day-to-day
As a Satellite Ground Station Field Service Engineer with Viasat, you will be an integral part of a skilled team supporting growth in the Technical Services organization within our Antenna Systems Division in Duluth, GA. This role arises from our strong business growth and our innovative high-bandwidth SATCOM solutions for commercial, government, and military applications. This position is essential in delivering exceptional service and maintaining operational efficiency for our customers.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Providing technical support for SATCOM earth station customers globally.
  • Interfacing directly with customers to address their needs.
  • Working independently to identify root causes of problems and implement effective solutions, ensuring minimal downtime for customers.
  • Coordinating with the engineering team at headquarters to promptly resolve any issues that arise, supporting customer requirements.

What you'll need
  • 5+ years' field-related SATCOM and satellite experience
  • Aptitude to lead technical resolution while performing emergency restoral actions on ground station equipment, including: ACUs, up-converters, down-converters, HPAs, fiber optic subsystems, LNAs/LNBS, antennas, Baseband and IP equipment (modems, multiplexers, DVB, Broadband platforms)
  • Direct experience repairing and installing satellite earth stations
  • Self-motivated with the internal drive and initiative to begin and continue tasks without external stimulus
  • Capable of quickly adapting to new and multifaceted situations in diverse environments
  • Proficiency in providing remote technical assistance and working independently to quickly identify root cause and formulate temporary and/or long-term solutions
  • Ability to handle working long hours in stressful work environments until successfully resolving customer issues
  • Experience installing, configuring, and resolving problems with LAN and other IP equipment on customer sites
  • Microsoft Office suite experience (Word, Excel, presentation software)
  • Demonstrated proficiency in developing and completing test plans and drafting test reports
  • Ability to demonstrate problem-solving skills, an analytical approach, and strong communication skills
  • Bachelor's Degree in a technical subject area or equivalent work experience
  • US citizenship required
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance or ability to obtain when administratively feasible
  • Capability to be on-call after hours for up to 30%
  • Ability to travel up to 50%, including internationally
  • Normal Business Hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm US Eastern Time
  • Possession of an active US passport or the ability to obtain one within six months of the start date
  • Willing to align with vaccination requirements established by government entities for the purpose of travel
  • Capability to work at heights and in confined spaces

What will help you on the job
  • 3 years of experience with Viasat specific products (3880 ACU, AC4100, AC4100+, VTR-4100, VTR-5100, and VHR modem product line)
  • Advanced analytical skills to troubleshoot problems to the root cause and to implement short- and long-term solutions
  • Ability to work under pressure and to communicate effectively directly with customers
  • Experience working in Sales Force, ServiceNow or other Ticketing and Workflow tools
  • Active Secret Clearance with ability to obtain Top Secret Clearance with SCI eligibility

Salary range
$82,000.00 - $129,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $102,000.00- $153,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement
Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

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About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986