1

Space Systems Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · 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 ...

Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site +1

$176K - $264K/yr

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

Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

What you'll do You will support the definition, analysis, and execution of space systems and subsystems as part of a collaborative systems engineering team. This role focuses on requirements ...

Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$176K - $264K/yr

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

Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site +1

$117K - $176K/yr

What you'll do You will support the definition, analysis, and execution of space systems and subsystems as part of a collaborative systems engineering team. This role focuses on requirements ...

Strong understanding of systems engineering analysis including requirements definition and flow ... Demonstrated leadership of space systems engineering teams * The ability to lead trade studies and ...

Senior RF Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site +1

$176K - $264K/yr

Strong understanding of systems engineering analysis including requirements definition and flow ... Demonstrated leadership of space systems engineering teams * The ability to lead trade studies and ...

Senior RF Space Systems Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site +1

$176K - $264K/yr

Strong understanding of systems engineering analysis including requirements definition and flow ... Demonstrated leadership of space systems engineering teams * The ability to lead trade studies and ...

What you'll do The Strategic Space Systems (S3) team at Viasat in Tempe, Arizona is responsible for ... This position is based in Tempe, AZ What you'll need * 8+ years' Systems Engineering experience ...

What you'll do The Strategic Space Systems (S3) team at Viasat in Tempe, Arizona is responsible for ... This position is based in Tempe, AZ What you'll need * 8+ years' Systems Engineering experience ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Space Systems Engineering information

See Arizona salary details

$56.4K

$132.4K

$182.7K

How much do space systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineering in Arizona is $132,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,200.00 and $161,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

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 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.
Infographic showing various Space Systems Engineering job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,393 per year, or $63.7 per hour.
Space Systems Engineer

Space Systems Engineer

Viasat, Inc.

Tempe, AZ • On-site, Remote

$176K - $264K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Viasat rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 96 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

You will serve as key technical contributor for a space communications program delivering resilient, secure, antijam wideband capabilities for U.S. and allied tactical users. 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 systems engineering team. 

You will be exposed to architecture development, technical integration, and system execution across multiple subcontractors, ensuring mission objectives are translated into robust, verifiable system solutions


The day-to-day
  • Contribute to and drive the definition of endtoend space system architectures in collaboration with program leadership.
  • Manage and control technical interfaces between space, ground, and network segments.
  • Maintain and analyze systemlevel technical budgets including RF link performance, SWaP-C, delta-v, and data—collaborating with suppliers to meet required metrics.
  • Drive system trade studies and integration strategies for new and custom capabilities.
  • Author, decompose, and control systemlevel requirements, specifications, and interface definitions across internal teams and external suppliers.
  • Ensure verification and validation strategies are defined, executed, and sold off.
  • Coordinate systems engineering tasking across the program team, fostering collaboration and alignment without direct authority.
  • Serve as a key technical interface to customers and stakeholders, supporting technical delivery and milestone reviews.
  • Support the technical preparation and presentation for major program lifecycle reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
  • Identify, manage, and communicate technical risks, assumptions, and margin posture with the Program team.
  • Mentor junior systems engineering staff and contribute to the continuous improvement of internal SE processes.

What you'll need
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • 8-12 years of systems engineering experience on space programs.
  • Proven ability to lead technical initiatives and influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
  • Demonstrated experience integrating space, ground, and network system elements.
  • Strong background in requirements development, system architecture, and lifecycle execution.
  • Excellent technical communication and customer-facing skills.
  • US Citizenship with ability to obtain Secret Clearance.
  • Ability to travel up to 25% based on location.
  • #LI-SA1
    This role can be performed on a hybrid basis at one of our office locations or remotely in the US.

What will help you on the job
  • End-to-end program lifecycle experience
  • Deep experience with space communications systems and subcontractor management
  • Familiarity with Jama or database-based requirements management tools
  • Experience delivering missioncritical, highreliability systems for Government customers

Salary range
$141,500.00 - $224,000.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $176,000.00- $264,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • 8-12 years of systems engineering experience on space programs.
  • Proven ability to lead technical initiatives and influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
  • Demonstrated experience integrating space, ground, and network system elements.
  • Strong background in requirements development, system architecture, and lifecycle execution.
  • Excellent technical communication and customer-facing skills.
  • US Citizenship with ability to obtain Secret Clearance.
  • Ability to travel up to 25% based on location.
  • #LI-SA1
    This role can be performed on a hybrid basis at one of our office locations or remotely in the US.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986