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Satellite Rf Engineer Jobs in Albuquerque, NM (NOW HIRING)

Senior Ground System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Ground System Engineer KBR is seeking a Senior Ground Systems Engineer to provide System ... antenna networks, satellite scheduling applications, RF spectrum considerations, and C2 ...

Senior Ground System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Ground System Engineer KBR is seeking a Senior Ground Systems Engineer to provide System ... antenna networks, satellite scheduling applications, RF spectrum considerations, and C2 ...

Research Engineer 2

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

... satellite communications, hypersonics, positioning, navigation and timing, and advanced computing ... RF/optical test equipment, environmental chambers, radiation test facilities, mechanical test ...

Research Engineer 2

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

... satellite communications, hypersonics, positioning, navigation and timing, and advanced computing ... RF/optical test equipment, environmental chambers, radiation test facilities, mechanical test ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

... reliability satellite technologies, solutions, and products. These cutting-edge capabilities ... or RF antennas. * Experience in an AS9100 quality system. * Experience working in multi ...

Showing results 21-39

Satellite Rf Engineer information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$35.9K

$114.1K

$177.4K

How much do satellite rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite rf engineer in Albuquerque, NM is $114,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $134,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a satellite RF engineer?

Satellite RF Engineers are specialists who design, develop, test, and maintain radio frequency (RF) systems used in satellite communications. They are responsible for ensuring reliable transmission and reception of signals between satellites and ground stations, often working with antennas, transmitters, receivers, and other RF components. Their expertise is crucial for enabling services such as satellite TV, internet, navigation, and remote sensing. Satellite RF Engineers also troubleshoot signal issues, optimize system performance, and comply with regulatory standards.

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

To thrive as a Satellite RF Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, with expertise in radio frequency (RF) theory, satellite communications, and often a relevant degree. Familiarity with RF simulation software (like CST or HFSS), spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and industry certifications such as FCC licensing are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork enhance success in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure reliable satellite communication systems and efficient troubleshooting in a highly technical, mission-critical environment.

What are some common challenges satellite RF engineers face when working on satellite communication systems?

Satellite RF Engineers often encounter challenges related to signal interference, atmospheric attenuation, and ensuring reliable communication links over long distances. Dealing with strict regulatory standards and coordinating frequency allocations is also part of the role. Additionally, troubleshooting hardware in remote or space-based environments can require creative solutions and close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as system integration and network operations.

What is the difference between Satellite Rf Engineer vs Satellite Communications Technician?

AspectSatellite Rf EngineerSatellite Communications Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related, RF certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, RF and satellite training
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and troubleshooting RF systems in labs or fieldInstallation, maintenance, and repair of satellite systems on-site
Industry UsageDesign and optimize satellite RF systems for telecom, defense, or spaceOperate and maintain satellite communication equipment for service providers

Satellite Rf Engineers focus on designing and testing RF systems, while Satellite Communications Technicians handle installation and maintenance. Both roles require RF knowledge but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Rf Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

For Satellite Rf Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Satellite Rf Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Rf Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

Infographic showing various Satellite Rf Engineer job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,070 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer

Space Dynamics Laboratory

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

$165K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job ID: 7984A
Date Posted: June 3, 2026

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer to develop, integrate, and test satellite ground system solutions. The successful candidate will play a key role in defining ground system architectures, coordinating interdisciplinary engineering efforts, managing requirements, risks, interfaces, and configurations, and ensuring cohesive technical execution across multiple teams. This senior position is ideal for candidates with deep systems engineering expertise, strong leadership and communication skills, and a proven ability to guide multi-disciplinary teams, resolve cross-cutting technical challenges, and drive successful program outcomes in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment.
The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provides systems engineering expertise and technical guidance to management, program managers, and customers regarding project feasibility, technical approaches, requirements, risks, and system impacts
  • Manages cross-functional engineering coordination across software, hardware, and support teams to ensure technical alignment, schedule execution, and compliance with program requirements
  • Manages system engineering activities including requirements development, system design and analysis, hardware and software integration, maintenance of technical baselines and program documentation, and verification and test
  • Proactively identifies technical and programmatic risks and develops robust mitigation and contingency strategies
  • Evaluates vendor and subcontractor capabilities to ensure delivered products and services satisfy system-level requirements
  • Supports proposal and business development activities through technical leadership, customer engagement, and coordination of engineering inputs.
  • Works directly with the Government Customer daily
Required Qualifications:
  • 18+ years of applicable experience with a bachelor's degree, or 16+ years with a master's degree, or 12+ years with a PhD
  • Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
  • Recognized systems engineering expert with broad knowledge across mechanical, electrical, thermal, optical, software, controls, and other engineering disciplines
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and provide technical oversight for complex, high-risk engineering programs
  • Demonstrated ability to apply strong analytical and systems-thinking skills to solve technical, cost, and schedule challenges
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively under pressure and maintain customer confidence in complex technical and programmatic environments
  • Mastery of systems engineering processes including requirements development, verification, risk management, interface control, configuration management, trade studies, and integration of agile development practices
  • Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to advise program managers, influence interdisciplinary teams, and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain technical baselines, produce high-quality engineering documentation, and provide accurate cost and schedule inputs
  • Experience with satellite and ground systems
  • Ability to travel as required

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with national security Air Force, and Space Force, space and ground systems
  • Experience with Command, Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC)
  • Experience with mission planning for government programs
  • Knowledge of satellite communication protocols and standards
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices related to satellite operations
  • Experience with satellite ground station equipment and connectivity, including antennas and RF systems
  • Familiarity with cloud computing platforms and their integration with ground systems

*Salary Range:
  • $165,000 - $225,000
    • Salary commensurate based on education and experience

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days. However, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.
For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.