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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Strong understanding of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) concepts, radar phenomenology, RF systems, or space-based remote sensing architectures. * Knowledge of systems engineering processes associated ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Strong understanding of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) concepts, radar phenomenology, RF systems, or space-based remote sensing architectures. * Knowledge of systems engineering processes associated ...

Senior Systems Engineer & Sensors SME

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline with 15+ years of progressive experience in space systems ...

... space systems utilizing Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Digital Engineering principles. This position will be contingent upon contract award. The Lead Systems Engineer serves as the ...

Showing results 21-40

Space Systems Engineering information

See Alabama salary details

$54.8K

$128.8K

$177.7K

How much do space systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineering in Alabama is $128,770.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,300.00 and $156,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is space systems engineering?

Space systems engineering is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the design, development, integration, and management of complex space missions and systems. It involves coordinating various subsystems such as propulsion, communications, power, and payloads to ensure that spacecraft and satellites meet mission objectives. Space systems engineers work closely with scientists, project managers, and other engineers to address technical challenges from concept through launch and operation. Their work is critical to the success of space exploration, satellite deployment, and other aerospace initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a space systems engineer?

To thrive as a Space Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, or related fields, often with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, systems engineering tools (like MBSE), and industry standards such as NASA or ESA protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are critical to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient design and integration of complex space systems.

What are some common challenges faced by space systems engineers during the integration and testing phase of a project?

Space systems engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating complex subsystems from different vendors, ensuring compatibility and reliability in harsh space environments. During testing, they must meticulously validate that all systems perform as expected under simulated launch and in-orbit conditions, which requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Additionally, tight project schedules and rigorous safety requirements can add pressure, making strong problem-solving and communication skills essential for success in this role.

Does NASA hire space systems engineers?

Yes, NASA hires space systems engineers to design, develop, and manage complex space missions and hardware. These engineers typically require a background in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or related fields, along with experience in project management and technical skills in systems integration. NASA offers employment opportunities through federal hiring processes, internships, and contractor positions.

What do space systems engineers do?

Space systems engineers design, develop, and oversee the integration of complex space systems such as satellites, spacecraft, and ground support equipment. They analyze requirements, create technical specifications, and coordinate multidisciplinary teams to ensure system functionality and reliability, often using tools like CAD and simulation software. Strong knowledge of systems engineering principles, aerospace standards, and project management is essential in this role.
Infographic showing various Space Systems Engineering job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,770 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer

Radiance Technologies

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Radiance Technologies, a 100% employee-owned company, is seeking candidates for a Senior Systems Engineer position supporting advanced technology development within the space domain. The selected candidate will provide Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support for a Program of Record (PoR) utilizing the DoDI 5000.02 Middle Tier Acquisition (MTA) Rapid Prototyping pathway. This role requires a highly motivated Systems Engineer capable of collaborating across multidisciplinary and cross-functional teams to drive the development, integration, testing, and fielding of advanced space technologies and mission capabilities. The selected candidate will perform systems engineering activities across the full system lifecycle, including concept development, requirements analysis, architecture development, design, integration, verification, test and evaluation, training, transition to operations, and sustainment. The candidate will support development and integration of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technologies and architectures for space and multi-domain applications.

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or related technical discipline.
  • US Citizen with a current DoD Top Secret security clearance w/ SCI eligibility.
  • Strong understanding of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) concepts, radar phenomenology, RF systems, or space-based remote sensing architectures.
  • Knowledge of systems engineering processes associated with radar signal processing, mission data processing, and sensor performance analysis.
  • Experience supporting technical baseline management, requirements traceability, and interface definition activities.
  • Self-starter with excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills, including management and archiving of Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs), Configuration Control Board (CCB) documentation, technical baselines, and program artifacts.

Required Experience:

  • Direct experience with DoD Systems Engineering and Digital Engineering principles and practices.
  • Experience supporting development or integration of SAR, RF sensing systems, ISR payloads, or space-based sensor architectures.
  • Familiarity with SAR image formation, radar signal processing, ground exploitation systems, or sensor data products.
  • Familiarity with Agile software development and maintenance principles and practices.
  • Active participation in systems engineering technical reviews, including System Requirements Reviews (SRR), Preliminary Design Reviews (PDR), Critical Design Reviews (CDR), Test Readiness Reviews (TRR), and Operational Readiness Reviews (ORR).
  • Experience supporting integration and test of complex aerospace, radar, or space systems.
  • Experience with requirements verification, validation, and performance assessment for highly technical systems.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or related technical discipline.
  • Experience with the Defense Adaptive Acquisition Framework (DAAF) and/or DoDI 5000 series acquisition processes.
  • Experience with digital engineering and MBSE tools such as Cameo, DOORS, or SysML.
  • Experience with test planning, verification, validation, and operational assessment of complex radar or space systems.
  • Familiarity with cloud-based data architectures, AI/ML-enabled sensor exploitation, or distributed processing environments.
  • Experience supporting programs utilizing Other Transaction Authority (OTA), rapid prototyping, or accelerated acquisition pathways.
  • Prior experience supporting Department of Defense, Space Force, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), Missile Defense Agency (MDA), or Intelligence Community space and ISR programs.

Radiance Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.