ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Space System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$200K - $240K/yr

Responsible for Government system level requirements and enterprise interfaces. * Oversee payload ... Experience leading systems engineering teams focused on integration of complex space and/or ground ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to analyze requirements, design system ... Engineer, Space Mission Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Space Systems Architect, Spacecraft ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Responsible for Government system level requirements and enterprise interfaces. * Oversee payload ... Experience leading systems engineering teams focused on integration of complex space and/or ground ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Space Systems Engineer to lead a complex systems ... Responsible for Government system level requirements and enterprise interfaces. * Oversee payload ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpace System Engineer Jobs

Space System Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do space system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for space 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Space System Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Space System Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, systems engineering tools (like DOORS), and knowledge of industry standards such as ECSS or NASA requirements is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex, multidisciplinary projects. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative development of space systems that meet rigorous technical and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Space System Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectSpace System EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like PMP or INCOSEBachelor's or Master's in Electrical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and testing space systems for missions beyond Earth's atmosphereDesigning, developing, and maintaining satellite systems for communication, navigation, or Earth observation
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, SpaceX, Boeing, aerospace contractorsSatellite service providers, aerospace companies, defense contractors

While both roles involve systems engineering principles and require similar credentials, Space System Engineers focus on space exploration and spacecraft, whereas Satellite Systems Engineers specialize in satellite technology and operations. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in application and environment.

How do Space System Engineers typically collaborate with other teams during a satellite development project?

Space System Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, software, and mission operations engineers, throughout the satellite development lifecycle. They coordinate system-level requirements, manage interfaces between subsystems, and facilitate integration and testing activities to ensure all components work together seamlessly. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are essential, as Space System Engineers often serve as the bridge between technical teams and project management, ensuring project milestones are met and technical issues are promptly addressed.

What is a Space System Engineer?

A Space System Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and manages complex systems for use in space, such as satellites, spacecraft, and space stations. They integrate various engineering disciplines—such as electrical, mechanical, and software engineering—to ensure all components work together effectively. Their responsibilities often include project management, systems analysis, and coordinating with teams to meet mission objectives. Space System Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and success of space missions, from initial concept to final deployment and operation.
More about Space System Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Space System Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Space System Engineer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Space System Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space System Engineer jobs are:
Space System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space System Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
Space Systems Engineer

Space Systems Engineer

SAIC

El Segundo, CA

$200K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 208 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613933

Location: El Segundo, CA, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-24

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 25% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is seeking an experienced Space Systems Engineer to lead a complex systems acquisition within the Space Combat Power systems portfolio. This role requires extensive expertise in government weapon systems engineering, strategic planning, and program integration to support the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). This position is located in El Segundo, CA.  

You will serve as a critical embedded member of the Government applying advanced systems engineering principles to shape and deliver the next generation capability. The role emphasizes leveraging tailored, rapid acquisition frameworks while integrating space, ground, and mission segments. Your expertise will be instrumental in driving program planning, risk mitigation, technical oversight, and execution.

Fun stuff you will do on the job:

  • Support the Government program manager as the lead technical representative for a major space system acquisition.
  • Engage with development contractors evaluating designs, models, integration and test plans.
  • Responsible for Government system level requirements and enterprise interfaces.
  • Oversee payload integration and manage interface control with stakeholders.
  • Performs system integration of ground segment and deployment into operations including concepts of operation (CONOPS) development.
  • Oversees requirements verification and validation.
  • Makes program risks assessments and provides actionable recommendations to the chief engineer and program manager.
  • Independently collaborates with Government program office representatives, FFRDC, SETA, and contractor personnel.

Qualifications

This is you:

  • Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more applicable experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience.
  • Experience leading systems engineering teams focused on integration of complex space and/or ground systems.
  • Experience using tools such as Cameo, JIRA, Confluence.
  • Must have an in-scope security background investigation (T5 or SSBI), adjudicated for SCI eligibility and enrolled in the Continuous Evaluation program (if applicable).
  • Must be willing to be nominated for access to Sensitive Compartment Information and Special Access Programs and willing to consent to a Polygraph examination.

Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply