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Space Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Impact Networking

Systems Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

Impact exists because a small group of industry leaders believed companies in our space were doing ... Job Overview The TOC Systems Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ...

Impact Networking

Systems Engineer

Mettawa, IL · On-site

Impact exists because a small group of industry leaders believed companies in our space were doing ... Job Overview The TOC Systems Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ...

New

Impact Networking

Systems Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

Impact exists because a small group of industry leaders believed companies in our space were doing ... Job Overview The TOC Systems Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ...

Impact Networking

Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Impact exists because a small group of industry leaders believed companies in our space were doing ... Job Overview The TOC Systems Engineer will be part of Impact Networking's Managed IT organization ...

New

Brock Solutions Inc.

Control Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70 - $85/hr

... space. As Brock Solutions continues to grow and respond to the on-going requirements of major ... We are currently seeking a Control Systems Engineer to join our team of experienced professionals ...

New

Auria

Staff Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130 - $170/hr

Direct engineering exposure to Satellite Communications (Satcom) space, ground, or network segments. * Practical experience utilizing Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and working within ...

New

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Gary, IN · On-site

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Aurora, IL

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Aurora, IL · On-site

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Chicago, IL

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Hammond, IN

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Gary, IN

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Hammond, IN · On-site

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSpace Systems Engineer JobsSpace Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Space Systems Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$131.1K

$172K

How much do space systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineer in Chicago, IL is $131,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $161,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a space systems engineer?

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 as a space systems engineer?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Space Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Space Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Space Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Space Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Space Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Space Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Space Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Systems Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,050 per year, or $63 per hour.

Space Systems Embedded Software Engineer - Level 2 (TS/SCI)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$87K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
At Northrop Grumman Space Systems, you will engineer the enduring icons of modern space exploration and global security, from manufacturing the vital Solid Rocket Boosters for NASA's Artemis missions and the engineering behind the James Webb Space Telescope, to pioneering on-orbit logistics with our uncrewed Cygnus cargo spacecraft and Mission Robotic Vehicle (MRV), alongside developing next-generation national defense constellations and strategic missile systems.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems (NGSS), Rolling Meadows, IL is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to add to its Software and Controls Department to contribute to full-cycle product development of new software subsystems and defense electronics as well as customization of current systems to support customer needs. As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be supporting a team of experienced engineers performing requirements analysis and system design, coding, test, and verification activities using state-of-the-art tools and techniques. These products and systems power the next generation of products. Our products are integrated with our customers' machines and systems, and many of the applications are highly customized and unique. We are interested in highly motivated candidates with embedded software design experience with a focus on software interactions with safety-critical real-time systems, digital signal processing, and secure software solutions.
This position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company. Continued employment thereafter will be subject to maintenance at the level of clearance and program access required for the position in the future
This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work
Basic Qualifications:
  • Active or Current Top Secret clearance with SCI
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or another STEM discipline from an accredited university and 2 years of related experience; OR Master's degree in the fields listed above.
  • Experience developing software in C/C++
  • Experience with scripting languages such as: Python, JavaScript, Perl, Unix/DOS shell scripts
  • Working knowledge of electronic test equipment (Oscilloscopes, signal generators, spectrum analyzers)
  • Experience with hands-on lab testing of electronic equipment
  • Basic understanding of digital signal processing concepts

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Working knowledge of RTOS (RTLinux, VxWorks, Integrity, FreeRTOS) concepts and operation
  • Experience with Linux Embedded real-time OS development (Yocto)
  • Experience developing in a hybrid Linux/Windows environment
  • Working knowledge of Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket)
  • Understanding of Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms and architectures
  • Experience developing software for microcontroller platforms (CortexM4, TI, STM, etc)
  • Experience developing drivers and BSPs for custom hardware platforms
  • Experience with System on a Chip (AMD, Xilinx, Altera) software/FPGA integration
  • Experience with digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms
  • Experience with hands-on hardware testing, debugging and board bring-up
  • Experience with GNU Radio and/or Redhawk SDR development

#SpaceEngJobs
#SpaceSoftwareJobs
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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