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Space Force Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Space Force. The Space Force Account Executive is responsible for developing and executing a ... Collaborate across company functions-including finance, legal, engineering, and product development ...

Account Executive, Space Force

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$185K - $230K/yr

Space Force. The Space Force Account Executive is responsible for developing and executing a ... Collaborate across company functions-including finance, legal, engineering, and product development ...

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Space Force Engineering information

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$32.5K

$63K

$95.5K

How much do space force engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for space force engineering in the United States is $62,977.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Space Force Engineering?

Space Force Engineering refers to the specialized field of engineering dedicated to supporting the United States Space Force and its mission to protect U.S. interests in space. Engineers in this field work on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining advanced technologies like satellites, launch systems, and space-based communications. They also collaborate on cybersecurity, space surveillance, and missile warning systems to ensure national security in the increasingly contested space domain. Space Force engineers often have backgrounds in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Space Force engineer?

To excel as a Space Force Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and, in some cases, security clearance. Familiarity with advanced simulation software, satellite systems, and defense-specific platforms like MATLAB or CAD tools is typically required. Outstanding problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure mission success, technological innovation, and the reliability of critical space-based defense systems.

What are some unique challenges faced by engineers working in Space Force engineering roles?

Engineers in Space Force roles often tackle challenges related to designing and maintaining highly specialized systems that must operate reliably in the harsh environment of space. These can include dealing with stringent security protocols, rapid technological advancements, and the need for close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including military personnel and civilian contractors. Additionally, projects may involve tight timelines and require innovative problem-solving to address issues such as satellite communication, propulsion, or space surveillance. Adaptability and a willingness to continuously learn new technologies are essential for success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Space Force Engineering vs Space Systems Engineer?

AspectSpace Force EngineeringSpace Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, security clearance often requiredBachelor's or higher in engineering or related field, often with security clearance
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, government facilities, defense contractorsGovernment agencies, aerospace companies, defense contractors
Industry UsagePrimarily within the Department of Defense and Space ForceCommercial and government space projects, aerospace industry
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Space Force Engineering focuses on designing, developing, and maintaining space-related systems for the military, often within government or defense contractor settings. Space Systems Engineers work on the broader design and integration of space systems, including commercial and civilian projects. While both roles require engineering credentials and security clearances, Space Force Engineering is more specialized for military applications, whereas Space Systems Engineering covers a wider industry scope.

Does the Space Force hire engineers?

Yes, the Space Force hires engineers for roles related to space systems, satellite technology, and defense infrastructure. Candidates typically need a background in engineering disciplines such as aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering, along with security clearances and specialized training. These positions often require working with advanced technology and adhering to strict security protocols.
More about Space Force Engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Space Force Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Space Force Engineering job openings:

What states have the most Space Force Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Space Force Engineering jobs include:

Infographic showing various Space Force Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,977 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Space Force ISR Instructor

Systems Planning and Analysis

Dayton, OH โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.
The Strategic Technology Analysis Group, part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, offers sophisticated capabilities (people, process & tools) to resolve unique problems in space, cyber, and special operations in support to military services, Secretary of Defense offices (OSD) and theater warfighters. Our portfolio includes the Assistant Secretary of Air Force for Space Acquisition & Integration (SAF/SQ), Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC), Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP), National Space Defense Center (NSDC), Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO), US Space Command (USSPACECOM) and US Space Force (USSF). Come be a part of a high-speed low-drag organization providing unique and tailored solutions for our National Defense!
SPA has an immediate need for a Space Force ISR instructor.
Responsibilities
SPA is seeking an experienced ISR Instructor / SME to serve as a lead instructor and curriculum developer supporting the United States Space Force ISR enterprise. The SWIFT / ASTRO / MPC Instructor will deliver instructor-led training for the Space War fighter Intelligence Fundamentals Training (SWIFT), Analysis, Structured Techniques, Reasoning, and Operational Trade-craft (ASTRO), and Mission Planning Course (MPC) programs. The successful candidate will facilitate classroom instruction, practical exercises, and student assessments while supporting course preparation, curriculum development, and courseware maintenance. Instruction will focus on intelligence fundamentals, structured analytic techniques, operational trade-craft, mission planning, and classified space intelligence operations to ensure students are prepared to support current and emerging mission requirements.
  • Lead course development, updates, and primary instruction for Space Force ISR training.
  • Serve as the ISR subject matter expert, ensuring curriculum accuracy, relevancy, and alignment with evolving USSF ISR requirements.
  • Train students in the fundamentals of collecting, analyzing, and applying intelligence techniques and tradecraft using real-world operational scenarios.
  • Maintain close coordination with mission partners to ensure training reflects current operational needs.
  • Deliver instructor-led training for the Space War fighter Intelligence Fundamentals Training (SWIFT), Analysis, Structured Techniques, Reasoning, and Operational Trade-craft (ASTRO), and Mission Planning Course (MPC) programs.
  • Facilitate classroom instruction, practical exercises, scenario-based learning, student assessments, and after-action reviews in a classified training environment.
  • Instruct students on intelligence fundamentals, structured analytic techniques, critical thinking, operational trade-craft, mission planning, ISR integration, and space operations.
  • Develop, review, and maintain Programs of Instruction (POIs), lesson plans, practical exercises, assessments, student materials, and courseware.
  • Support curriculum updates to ensure training materials remain aligned with current doctrine, tactics, techniques, procedures, and mission requirements.
  • Evaluate student performance, provide coaching and feedback, and maintain accurate training records and documentation.
  • Coordinate with instructors, Government stakeholders, and program leadership to ensure successful planning and execution of training events.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives by incorporating student feedback, after-action reviews, and operational lessons learned into course content and delivery.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI clearance at time of application
  • BA/BS (or equivalent experience) and 10+ years of experience supporting the USSF ISR mission
  • 4+ years of professional instruction experience
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage a diverse customer set
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD), Department of the Air Force (DAF), Intelligence Community (IC), space operations, intelligence, ISR, mission planning, intelligence training, or analytic trade-craft
  • Experience delivering instructor-led training, operational instruction, or courseware in a classified DoD or Intelligence Community environment
  • Experience developing or maintaining Programs of Instruction (POIs), lesson plans, practical exercises, assessments, and instructional courseware
  • Experience teaching intelligence fundamentals, structured analytic techniques, mission planning, operational trade-craft, ISR, or related intelligence disciplines
  • Ability to facilitate classroom discussions, practical exercises, student evaluations, and after-action reviews
  • Familiarity with DAFH 36-2675, instructional systems design (ISD), ADDIE methodology, or formal military instructor certification programs
  • Experience supporting the U.S. Space Force (USSF), U.S. Air Force (USAF), Combat Forces Command (CFC), Space Delta 7, or other classified space intelligence organizations
  • Knowledge of space operations, ISR, mission planning, space targeting, and classified space intelligence training environments
  • Ability to travel up to 10% to support mission requirements, CONUS and OCONUS
  • Ability to work full-time on-site at Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, OH

Desired Qualifications
  • Recent Space Force ISR experience
  • Recent Space Force instructor or schoolhouse experience
  • Experience supporting Space War fighter Intelligence Fundamentals Training (SWIFT), Analysis, Structured Techniques, Reasoning, and Operational Trade-craft (ASTRO), Mission Planning Course (MPC), or comparable intelligence training programs

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Pay Transparency Range: 140k - 170k