1

Satellite System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer

OR ยท On-site +1

$110K - $133K/yr

This role is responsible for leading the mechanical design of the complete satellite system ... Create, maintain, and improve standards for engineering drawings, specifications, and design for ...

System Engineer(Onsite) Location: Lexington, MA Background: The Systems Engineering Group develops ... Example projects include satellite sensors, space-based and ground-based laser communications ...

System Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ ยท On-site

$50 - $73.25/hr

Prefer recent Satellite to Ground RF communication protocol experience, end to end packet ... Systems engineering that includes decomposing requirements into modeling of the traffic data flow ...

Prefer recent Satellite to Ground RF communication protocol experience, end to end packet ... Systems engineering that includes decomposing requirements into modeling of the traffic data flow ...

$111K - $152K/yr

As part of the System Engineering Department, the Flight Operations System Engineer will ... The Satellite Flight-Operations engineer will perform and participate in the following tasks and ...

Evaluate system and subsystem designs to ensure compliance to program requirements. * Participate ... satellite developers, and other subject matter experts. Qualifications * BS in Aerospace/Mechanical ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a cleared and experienced Satellite Systems Engineer in the Fairfax VA area in support of USG. The seclected candidate will provide Tier 2/3 network support, terminal maintenance ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a cleared and experienced Satellite Systems Engineer in the Fairfax VA area in support of USG. The seclected candidate will provide Tier 2/3 network support, terminal maintenance ...

Showing results 41-60

Satellite System Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do satellite system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite system engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSatellite System EngineerSatellite Communications Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like CCNA or CompTIA Network+Associate degree or technical certification, specialized training in satellite systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of satellite systems, often in labs or officesInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of satellite equipment in the field
Industry UsageUsed by aerospace, defense, and telecommunications companies for system developmentCommon in satellite service providers and telecom companies for field operations

Satellite System Engineers focus on designing and developing satellite systems, requiring engineering credentials and working mainly in labs or offices. In contrast, Satellite Communications Technicians handle installation and maintenance in the field, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

Are satellite system engineers in demand?

Satellite system engineers are in demand due to the growing reliance on satellite communications, navigation, and remote sensing technologies. The field requires expertise in RF systems, software, and hardware integration, with job opportunities increasing in aerospace, defense, and telecommunications industries.

How much does a satellite system engineer make?

Satellite system engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in government or defense sectors where security clearances are required.

What does a satellite system engineer do?

A satellite system engineer designs, develops, and tests satellite communication systems and related hardware and software. They analyze system requirements, ensure integration and functionality, and often work with teams using tools like CAD and simulation software to optimize satellite performance and reliability.

What cities are hiring for Satellite System Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Satellite System Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Satellite System Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Satellite System Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Satellite System Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Satellite System Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Lead Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer

OR โ€ข On-site, Remote

AST SpaceMobile
Telecommunicationsย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$110K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Lead Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer to support the mechanical design, analysis, and integration of satellite systems from concept through launch. This role is responsible for leading the mechanical design of the complete satellite system, including bus structure, equipment accommodation, and payload accommodation, to ensure designs meet performance, mass, volume, power, and reliability requirements for launch and on-orbit environments. The ideal candidate is innovative, technically rigorous, and collaborative, and thrives in a fast-paced environment that rewards challenging the status quo.ย 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead a team responsible for the mechanical design of the complete satellite system, including bus structure, equipment accommodation, and payload accommodation, using CAD and PLM tools.
  • Design, develop, model, and test satellite hardware - structures, mechanisms, electronics, and communications systems - with a focus on performance, size, weight, power, and reliability from concept through launch.
  • Develop and maintain system-level mechanical design documentation, including interface control drawings, manufacturing drawings, and test procedures.
  • Create, maintain, and improve standards for engineering drawings, specifications, and design for manufacturability.
  • Prepare and present the information required to conduct thorough design and readiness reviews with management and peers.
  • Troubleshoot and investigate anomalies and failures, perform root-cause analysis, and drive resolution.
  • Partner with manufacturing and production teams to ensure efficient, clearly documented transfer of design information.
  • Evaluate and champion new technologies and methods.ย 

Qualificationsย 

Education:

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related technical field; an advanced degree is preferred.

Experience:

A minimum of 15 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design, integration, and testing of satellites.ย 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong technical skill in the design of satellite assemblies for launch and on-orbit environments, in addition to design for manufacturability.
  • Experience using standard analytical tools, FEA, and classical structural analysis methods to support sizing and trade studies.
  • Experience leading small engineering teams through full design cycles.
  • Advanced degree in mechanical engineering or a related technical field.ย 

Soft Skills:

  • Innovative and creative, with a willingness to challenge the status quo.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a multidisciplinary team with other engineers.
  • Ability to lead a small team while also working assignments autonomously.
  • Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Excellent English written and verbal communication skills.ย 

Technology Stack:

  • CAD software - Siemens NX preferred; CATIA, SolidWorks, or CREO also considered.
  • PLM systems for design release and configuration management.
  • FEA and standard structural analysis tools.ย 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
  • Willingness to travel 25%-40% of the time.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.ย