1

Satellite Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related STEM field * Deep knowledge of satellite subsystems, including Attitude and Orbit Control (ADCS ...

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related STEM field * Deep knowledge of satellite subsystems, including Attitude and Orbit Control (ADCS ...

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related STEM field * Deep knowledge of satellite subsystems, including Attitude and Orbit Control (ADCS ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Satellite Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do satellite systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite systems 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 are some common challenges faced by Satellite Systems Engineers and how are they typically addressed?

Satellite Systems Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as managing complex integration processes, troubleshooting technical anomalies, and ensuring the reliability of systems in the harsh conditions of space. These issues are typically addressed by collaborating closely with cross-functional teams—including software, hardware, and operations specialists—to analyze data, simulate scenarios, and implement robust testing procedures. Staying up to date with the latest industry standards and regulatory requirements also helps engineers preempt and mitigate potential problems. Proactive communication, thorough documentation, and a strong attention to detail are key strategies for navigating these unique challenges effectively.

What does a Satellite Systems Engineer do?

A Satellite Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining satellite systems and subsystems. They work on various aspects, including communications, control systems, power distribution, and thermal management. Their role involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure satellites function efficiently in space. They also analyze system performance, troubleshoot technical issues, and support mission operations from initial concept to deployment and beyond.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Satellite Systems Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Satellite Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with satellite communications and subsystems. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation tools (such as STK, MATLAB, or LabVIEW), satellite telemetry and command systems, and relevant certifications like ITAR/EAR compliance or security clearance is highly beneficial. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and clear communication skills help you coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and address technical challenges. These skills are essential to ensure reliable satellite operations, successful mission outcomes, and effective collaboration within complex engineering environments.

More about Satellite Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Satellite Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Satellite Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Satellite Systems Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Satellite Systems Engineer jobs? The top employers for Satellite Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Satellite Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Satellite Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Satellite Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Satellite Systems Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Satellite Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Satellite Systems Engineer

Space Systems Integration

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers.  Our employees are forward-thinking, self-directed individuals who are committed to solving our customers’ technical challenges.

SSI is seeking a Satellite Systems Engineer (TS/SCI CI Poly required) to provide Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) support to a System Program Office (SPO) at our Customer in Chantilly, VA. The role involves supporting satellite system development and acquisitions to enhance space resiliency and collaborating with IC organizations and technical providers to address emerging threats. As part of a team of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), the engineer will contribute to the full lifecycle of systems engineering and management processes, ensuring the delivery of critical space resiliency capabilities.

Specific Duties May Include, but Not Limited to the Following:
·       Oversee acquisitions by focusing on systems engineering processes, ensuring successful integration and mission achievement through lifecycle readiness reviews, including system requirements definition, design, verification, and validation.
·       Support the full acquisition lifecycle by developing and reviewing Statements of Work (SOWs), conducting technical evaluations, facilitating source selection, and ensuring alignment with mission objectives and regulatory standards.
·       Manage risk throughout the satellite lifecycle, identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to maintain system integrity and mission success.
·       Serve as a technical liaison between the Government and development contractors, fostering clear communication and alignment between all stakeholders.
·       Collaborate with technical domain experts, and internal and external partners to gain a thorough understanding of system designs, interfaces, and mission requirements, driving integration into Customer architecture.
·       Guide Contracting Officers (COs) and Contracting Officer Technical Representatives (COTRs) to ensure contract requirements, performance metrics, and deliverables align with mission objectives while managing risks and compliance.
·       Assist the Customer in identifying technology gaps, developing strategic roadmaps, and successfully implementing projects and programs within Customer architecture.
·       Prepare high-impact documents and briefings to communicate project status, findings, and recommendations to Government and industry stakeholders.
·       Leverage data analytics and performance metrics to evaluate and enhance system performance, guiding decision-making throughout the system lifecycle.
·       Research and recommend emerging technologies for integration into space systems, advancing capabilities and enhancing mission success.
Required Qualifications:
  • Must possess an active Top Secret/SCI clearance and CI polygraph (polygraph within the last ten (10) years).
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering and ten (10) or more years of experience; Masters degree and eight (8) or more years of experience.
  • Experience with all phases of the satellite mission lifecycle, from concept development and design through integration, testing, and post-launch operations.
  • Experience with space systems design, development, assembly, integration, and testing, including architectures, spacecraft, and payloads, for the Intelligence Community (IC) and/or the Department of Defense (DoD).PMI PMP, INCOSE CSEP/ESEP, or equivalent certifications in project management and/or systems engineering.
  • Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building, and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a Government/Contractor team environment.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical topics to senior decision-makers with varying technical backgrounds through clear briefings and written reports.
  • Willingness to travel up to 10%.
#ssi #weknowhowtobuildit #spacejobs

Space Systems Integration provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

#ssi #weknowhowtobuildit #spacejobs