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Satellite Payload Engineer Jobs in Washington (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 ...

SAIC

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$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 ...

MX1

Senior Engineer, Spacecraft Subsystems, Payload

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Senior Engineer, Spacecraft Subsystems, Payload The job responsibilities outlined in this document ... Maximize satellite fleet availability and longevity, ensuring customer satisfaction aligned with ...

SES

Senior Engineer, Spacecraft Subsystems, Payload

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Senior Engineer, Spacecraft Subsystems, Payload The job responsibilities outlined in this document ... Maximize satellite fleet availability and longevity, ensuring customer satisfaction aligned with ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Qualified candidates must possess demonstrated satellite/payload technical expertise and be able to ... Engineering with 14 years or more experience; Masters and 12 years or more experience; PhD and 9 ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

Qualified candidates must possess demonstrated satellite/payload technical expertise and be able to ... Engineering with 14 years or more experience; Masters and 12 years or more experience; PhD and 9 ...

Saic

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Responsibilities * Assist with the execution of satellite and payload design trade studies ... Engineering with 14 years or more experience; Masters and 12 years or more experience; PhD and 9 ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems--both on‑orbit and in development. You will ...

SAIC

NRO Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Qualified candidates must possess demonstrated satellite/payload technical expertise and be able to ... Engineering with 14 years or more experience; Masters and 12 years or more experience; PhD and 9 ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems-both on-orbit and in development. You will support ...

SAIC

Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Payload Systems Engineer , you will play a critical role in the development, acquisition, and execution of multiple satellite payload systems-both on-orbit and in development. You will support ...

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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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

Satellite Payload Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Payload Engineer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 226 rated it services

People enjoy working here

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Recommended by students

Learn more about SAICexternal

$160K - $200K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

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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