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Space Systems Integration

Project Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $215K/yr

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 ...

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How much do space engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for space engineer in the United States is $89,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Space Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Space Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or Simulink, and knowledge of industry standards such as NASA or ESA protocols are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and innovation required in designing and operating spacecraft and related systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Space Engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Space Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various disciplines such as software development, electronics, and systems engineering. One common challenge is aligning technical requirements and timelines across different teams, as each specialty may have unique constraints and priorities. Effective communication and a strong understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of space projects are crucial for ensuring integration and mission success. Adapting to shifting project scopes and rapid technological advancements is also a frequent part of the role.

What are Space Engineers?

Space engineers are professionals who design, build, test, and maintain spacecraft, satellites, space stations, and related systems used for space exploration and operations. They apply principles from aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to solve complex challenges in the harsh environment of space. Space engineers work for government agencies like NASA or ESA, private aerospace companies, and research organizations. Their roles can involve spacecraft design, mission planning, propulsion, robotics, and ensuring the safety and reliability of space missions.

What is the difference between Space Engineer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectSpace EngineerAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace, mechanical, or related fields; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in aerospace or aeronautical engineering; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentSpacecraft, satellites, space stations, laboratoriesAircraft, spacecraft, testing facilities, laboratories
Employer & IndustryNASA, SpaceX, aerospace firms, government agenciesAirlines, aircraft manufacturers, defense contractors, aerospace firms

Space Engineers focus on designing and developing spacecraft and systems for space exploration, while Aerospace Engineers work on aircraft and related systems for both atmospheric and space applications. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

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What states have the most Space Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Engineer jobs are:
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Chief Space Systems Engineer

Space Systems Integration

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$210K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 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 Chief Space Systems Engineer for a role in El Segundo, CA.
 
Role and Responsibilities include:
  • Engages with developers to evaluate software simulators, engineering units, and hardware simulators through integration activities.
  • Leads technical requirements development, systems engineering, and oversees the development contractor to develop, design, produce, integrate, and test space systems.
  • Oversees payload integration and interface control management.
  • Performs system integration of multiple efforts to integrate complex space systems, ground segment integration, and deployment into operations.
  • Manage and negotiate interface control documents with external stakeholders.
  • Performs systems architecting and engineering activities such as system requirements definition, interface definition, design, interface management, data architecture development, systems integration, performance analysis, lifecycle cost analysis & estimation, decision analysis, and development and refinement of communications concepts of operation.
  • Oversees requirements verification and validation.
  • Makes program risk assessments and provides actionable recommendations to the chief engineer and program manager.
  • Independently collaborates with Government program office representatives, FFRDC, SETA, and contractor personnel.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science and eighteen (18) years or more experience; Master's and sixteen (16) years or more experience, or an additional 4 years of experience may be used in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
  • Experience with space systems development, integration, and/or operations of DoD or other agencies (NRO, NSA, NASA, etc.).
  • Experience leading systems engineering teams focused on integration of complex space and/or ground systems.
  • Active TS clearance with in-scope T5/SSBI is required, along with SCI eligibility and participation in Continuous Evaluation.
  • Must meet all requirements for SCI and SAP access and be willing to undergo a polygraph examination.
$210,000 - $230,000 a year

Target salary range: $210,000 - $230,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range and bonus potential for this position based on experience and other factors.

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.
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