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Satellite Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maxar

Senior Satellite Systems Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

The Satellite Systems Engineering teamis responsible for defining the mission, satellite, and payload architecture behind next-generation space constellations. This role offers direct exposure to ...

SAIC

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$177K - $209K/yr

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer must possess and have successfully demonstrated satellite engineering experience. Requires excellent problem-solving, interpersonal, and oral and written ...

SAIC

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$177K - $209K/yr

The Satellite Systems Software Engineer must possess and have successfully demonstrated satellite engineering experience. Requires excellent problem-solving, interpersonal, and oral and written ...

Globalstar

Senior Systems Satellite Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$121K - $166K/yr

The Senior Satellite Systems Engineer leads and supports engineering and technical development projects with satellite development projects and supporting operations after launch. Supervisory ...

SAIC

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... satellites on orbit. • Provide operations planning and execution support. • Develop and ...

SAIC

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... Develop and coordinate operations transition plans for constellation of multiple satellites.

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Satellite Systems Engineer information

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$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:
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Satellite Systems Engineer jobs near you
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.
Senior Satellite Systems Engineer

Senior Satellite Systems Engineer

Maxar Technologies, Inc.

Westminster, CO • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Vantor is forging the new frontier of spatial intelligence, helping decision makers and operators navigate what's happening now and shape what's coming next. Vantor is a place for problem solvers, changemakers, and go-getters-where people are working together to help our customers see the world differently, and in doing so, be seen differently. Come be part of a mission, not just a job, where you can: Shape your own future, build the next big thing, and change the world.
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. Person, defined as a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, Asylee, or Refugee.
Export Control/ITAR: Certain roles may be subject to U.S. export control laws, requiring U.S. person status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Please review the job details below.
Vantor is hiring a Senior Satellite Systems Engineer to join our Satellite Systems Engineering team in Westminster, CO. The Satellite Systems Engineering team is responsible for defining the mission, satellite, and payload architecture behind next-generation space constellations. This role offers direct exposure to complex, integrated systems including spacecraft platforms, optical payloads, laser communications, and advanced onboard processing.
We work closely with top-tier industry partners, providing the opportunity to influence and oversee high-impact programs across the full system. Our team is composed of highly experienced engineers and leaders who understand how to deliver. We operate with a deliberate balance of lean execution and disciplined engineering, enabling us to move quickly while maintaining the rigor required for mission success.
Just as important, we've built a culture of strong collaboration, shared ownership, and camaraderie-with a clear sense of purpose behind the systems we deliver.
Top candidates will have experience with thermal and structural design and analysis. Our small team executes projects that start with customer needs, and design, develop, and deliver the world's most capable earth observation systems. In this role, you will:
  • Conduct and evaluate responses to RFIs and RFPs with satellite component vendors
  • Conduct studies using unit and system models to evaluate thermal design, suggest modifications, and understand ConOps restrictions for high-dissipation, high-stability systems
  • Conduct launch studies using satellite and stack models
  • Generate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and sell off their requirements
  • Write and oversee system compliance with structural and thermal requirements
  • Review vendor-submitted processes, design reviews, analysis packages, and test reports

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, aerospace, physics, or a related field of study
  • 3-7 years of experience with space systems engineering and analysis
  • Structural analysis experience: Using computer-aided design (CAD) software, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools to construct and run satellite and launch stack structural models, and evaluate profile notching
  • Thermal analysis experience: Building/tuning thermal models from design, test, and on-orbit data for high-stability space-based systems and establishing ConOps restrictions for high-dissipation components
  • Ability to review unit and spacecraft-level acoustic, random/sine vibration, and shock tests data for compliance with launch vehicle requirements
  • Ability to review unit and spacecraft-level thermal test results

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Direct experience on at least one Earth observation space program
  • Experience procuring hardware
  • Experience in writing and selling technical requirements
  • End-to-end aerospace program experience, including ConOps and architecture development, writing requirements, design reviews, assembly integration and test, verification and validation, and on-orbit operations
  • Ability to obtain a US Government security clearance at the TS/SCI level

#LI-MG1
Pay Transparency: To support pay transparency, Vantor includes salary ranges in all U.S. job postings. Starting pay for this role will fall within the listed range and will be based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, location, and market conditions. Candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the role should not expect to receive compensation at the top of the range. The listed range reflects the expected pay for this position, and final offers will be determined based on each candidate's experience, expertise, and alignment with the role.
• The base pay for this position within Colorado is: $90,000.00 - $120,000.00 - $132,000.00 annually.
For all other states, we use geographic cost of labor as an input to develop market-driven ranges for our roles, and as such, each location where we hire may have a different range.
Benefits: Vantor offers a competitive total rewards package that goes beyond the standard, including a robust 401(k) with company match, mental health resources, and unique perks like student loan repayment assistance, adoption reimbursement and pet insurance to support all aspects of your life. You can find more information on our benefits at: https://www.Vantor.com/careers
Additionally, this position is incentive eligible with a target based on contribution, company performance, and/or individual results achieved; the specific incentive plan and target amount will be determined based on the role and breadth of contributions.
The application window is three days from the date the job is posted and will remain posted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire. If the job is reposted regardless of reason, it will remain posted three days from the date the job is reposted and will remain reposted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire.
The date of posting can be found on Vantor's Career page at the top of each job posting.
To apply, submit your application via Vantor's Career page.
EEO Policy: Vantor is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We believe in fostering an environment where all team members feel respected, valued, and encouraged to share their ideas. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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About Maxar Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Maxar Technologies, headquartered in Denver, CO, US, is a space technology company established in 1969. Operating in the Aerospace Industry, Maxar's key areas of business include Earth Intelligence and Space Infrastructure. The products they offer are critical for global communications, environmental monitoring, national security, intelligence operations, disaster response, and more. Passionate about unlocking the potential of space, Maxar's mission is "to build a better world by harnessing space technology". The company prides itself on advancing state-of-the-art technology, delivering exceptional customer service, and driving growth.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Denver, CO, US

Year founded

1969

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