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Space Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Principal Space Systems Engineer to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) directorates. Position is available in El Segundo, California . Typical ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Principal Space Systems Engineer to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) directorates. Position is available in El Segundo, California . Typical ...

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

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 ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Sr. Principal Space Systems Engineer to support the Space Systems Command (SSC) directorates. Position is available in El Segundo, California . Typical ...

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 acquisition within the Space Combat Power systems portfolio. This role requires extensive expertise in ...

Space Systems Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site +1

$176K - $264K/yr

In this internal- and external-facing role, you will manage endtoend systems engineering activities spanning space, ground, and network segments, while coordinating work across a multidisciplinary ...

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Space Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do space systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Space Systems Engineers on the job?

Space Systems Engineers often work on complex projects that require coordinating multiple subsystems and ensuring they function seamlessly together. Common challenges include balancing strict budget and time constraints while meeting high reliability and safety standards set by the aerospace industry. The role may involve troubleshooting intricate issues during assembly, integration, or testing phases, often under tight deadlines. Adapting to evolving mission requirements and collaborating with specialists across different disciplines are also key aspects of the job. Tackling these challenges builds valuable problem-solving skills and provides opportunities to work on cutting-edge technology.

What is a Space Systems Engineer job?

A Space Systems Engineer designs, develops, and integrates complex space missions, including satellites, spacecraft, and ground systems. They work across multiple disciplines, such as electrical, mechanical, and software engineering, to ensure all subsystems function together. Their role involves requirements analysis, system modeling, risk assessment, and testing to ensure mission success. Space Systems Engineers collaborate with scientists, astronauts, and project managers to optimize performance and reliability.

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

A Space Systems Engineer typically requires a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Experience with simulation software (such as MATLAB or STK), systems engineering processes (like MBSE), and relevant certifications (INCOSE CSEP, for example) are highly valued. Excellent teamwork, project management, and communication skills help engineers effectively coordinate across multidisciplinary teams. Together, these skills enable successful design, integration, and operation of complex space systems, ensuring mission success and safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Space Systems Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Space Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Space Systems Engineer jobs in California? For Space Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Space Systems Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Space Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Space Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Space Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Space Systems Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

$190K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 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 Space Systems Engineer for a role 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.
 
Role and Responsibilities include:
  • 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.
Required Qualifications:
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Travel is 25%
$190,000 - $220,000 a year

Target salary range: $190,000 - $220,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range and bonus potential for this position based on experience and other factors. We offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution. 

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, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
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