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Satellite Payload Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Lead, Project Engineering

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Experience in satellite payload and space vehicle development Preferred Additional Skills: * Experience with best practices for project engineering and program execution * Experience in managing ...

ICEYE

Staff Optical Engineer

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$68.58 - $100.24/hr

Engineering Manager, Optical Systems * Employment type: Permanent * Workplace model: Hybrid ... Knowledge of the satellite systems and integration of the optical payload with satellite platforms.

All JobsSatellite Payload Engineer JobsSatellite Payload Engineer Jobs in Indiana

Satellite Payload Engineer information

What is a satellite payload engineer?

Satellite Payload Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and test the payload systems of satellites, which are the instruments and equipment responsible for the satellite’s main mission, such as communication, imaging, or data collection. They work closely with other engineering teams to ensure that the payload meets mission requirements, operates reliably in space environments, and integrates seamlessly with the satellite bus. Their role is critical in both commercial and scientific satellite missions, and they are involved from the conceptual design phase through to integration, testing, and in-orbit support.

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

To thrive as a Satellite Payload Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, RF/microwave systems, and satellite communications, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, RF simulation software (such as CST or HFSS), and industry standards for satellite payloads is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing, testing, and optimizing satellite payloads that meet mission requirements and ensure reliable space operations.

What are the most common challenges faced by satellite payload engineers during integration and testing phases?

Satellite Payload Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring that all payload components operate seamlessly within tight physical, power, and data constraints. Integration and testing phases require meticulous coordination with systems engineers and test teams to troubleshoot interface issues, electromagnetic compatibility, and thermal management. Additionally, unexpected anomalies may arise that require real-time problem-solving and effective communication across multidisciplinary teams. These phases are fast-paced and detail-oriented, offering valuable opportunities to develop expertise in both technical troubleshooting and cross-functional collaboration.

What is the difference between Satellite Payload Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectSatellite Payload EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
Primary FocusDesign, develop, and test satellite payloads such as sensors and communication equipmentOversee overall satellite system integration, including subsystems and payloads
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering; certifications varyBachelor's or master's in aerospace or systems engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, testing facilities, and satellite development sitesDesign offices, integration labs, and mission operation centers
Industry UsageUsed by satellite manufacturers, aerospace firms, and government agenciesUsed by satellite operators, integrators, and aerospace companies

While both roles require aerospace engineering knowledge and similar credentials, Satellite Payload Engineers focus on payload-specific design and testing, whereas Satellite Systems Engineers oversee the entire satellite system integration. Both roles are essential in satellite development and often collaborate closely.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Satellite Payload Engineer jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Satellite Payload Engineer job openings:

Satellite Payload Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Payload Engineer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Lead, Project Engineering

L3HHCM20

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Lead, Project Engineering

Job Code: 40333  

Job Location: Fort Wayne, IN

Job Description:

Responsible for full lifecycle Project Engineering support for a range of software and hardware development, assembly, and integration and test efforts.


Essential Functions: 

  • Responsible for successfully leading a project team to meet customer requirements within allocated cost and schedule commitments.
  • Develops, oversees, and coordinates the cost/schedule/technical aspects of an ongoing engineering project within the program guidelines set by the Program Manager and customer.
  • Reviews status of engineering projects and budgets, manages schedules, drives execution, identifies opportunities, and delivers results through achieving payment milestones.
  • Assesses engineering issues and develops resolutions to meet productivity, quality, and customer-satisfaction goals and objectives.
  • Identifies, tracks, mitigates, manages, and dispositions program-level risks and opportunities.
  • Estimate resource and material needs for the project/product.
  • Provides the coordination between resource managers/supervisors and ensures all necessary reviews and approvals are received.
  • Understands how to develop a schedule using Earned Value (EV) and manage a project using the Earned Value Indicators on a DCMA surveilled program (highest rigor applied).
  • Participate in small teams and perform a wide variety of tasks to drive execution (e.g., value stream mapping activities)
  • Must have ability and willingness to work in a collaborative team environment on quick reaction projects and will have regular contact with customers.
  • Must be able to get a security clearance

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience
  • IPTL/CAM Professional experience
  • Experience in satellite payload and space vehicle development

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Experience with best practices for project engineering and program execution
  • Experience in managing multi-discipline programs across multiple locations
  • Experience in software development and integration programs
  • Experience managing projects with total budgets of $70M+
  • Experience or knowledge of Government contract acquisition lifecycle a plus
  • Experience with management of design to cost activities
  • Experience with program pursuit and proposal activities
  • Experience with operations and/or manufacturing activities
  • Experience in Root Cause Corrective Action process and techniques
  • Program Management Institute - PMP certification desired
  • Active TS/SCI

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