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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Senior RF Space System Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

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

Space Systems Lead

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Working knowledge of systems engineering fundamentals: requirements, budgets (mass, power, link ... space.Familiarity with smallsat / NewSpace development models and hosted payload integration.

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Space Systems division has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary ... Strong electrical engineering background supporting complex aerospace, payload, avionics, or ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Space Systems division has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary ... Strong electrical engineering background supporting complex aerospace, payload, avionics, or ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The Space Systems division has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary ... Strong electrical engineering background supporting complex aerospace, payload, avionics, or ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary ... apply engineering best practices to ensure the success of complex missions in pioneering space ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 9, 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 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 need a background in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or related fields, along with experience in project management and technical skills in systems integration. NASA's job opportunities are posted on their official careers website and often require security clearances and relevant certifications.

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 Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,393 per year, or $63.7 per hour.

Senior RF Space System Engineer

Tempe, AZ • On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


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

The Strategic Space Systems (S3) team at in Tempe, Arizona is responsible for development of full lifecycle space programs with varying scope, from chip scale to full-on space missions. Our programs provide key capabilities for the US government as well as commercial end-users. Programs in the business area are far-reaching and impactful - enabling the US and the world in commercial and defense applications like resilient space communications and networking, remote sensing, and much more. The S3 team is primarily composed of a small group of highly skilled cross-domain engineers who take on challenging problems daily.

The day-to-day

This position provides an outstanding opportunity to develop innovative technologies. You will work closely with our customers to build multi-function systems from concept to implementation that advance our nation’s most critical defense programs. This includes requirements development, architecture design, integration, and implementation of hardware. In this exciting and dynamic role, you will report into the S3 organization while working closely and collaboratively with other Viasat stakeholders to identify, pursue, capture, and execute high priority opportunities that support our strategic growth goals. This position is based in Tempe, AZ

What you’ll need
  • 8+ years’ Systems Engineering experience with a Master’s degree; 12+ years’ experience with a Bachelor’s degree
  • Experience working with interdisciplinary teams including Business Development, Systems, Software, RF circuits, FPGA design, and others
  • Experience in payload and electronics design for space applications with an understanding of reliability and EMI/EMC requirements for space based systems
  • Strong analytic/mathematics background with experience in system modeling, simulation, and analysis including power and communication link budgets
  • Strong understanding of systems engineering analysis including requirements definition and flow down, interface definitions, system test design and execution, and risk identification, tracking, and burn-down
  • Proficiency using RF and systems design engineering tools including MATLAB, ADS, HFSS, and Genesys
  • Experience working with Government customers to develop system level requirements and solutions
  • Strong system, software, or test background including design and implementation
  • Strong technical leadership
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline. Ph.D or Masters preferred.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required.
  • Active DoD TS SCI Clearance or ability/willingness to obtain clearance when administratively feasible
  • Ability to travel up to 10% domestic travel
What will help you on the job
  • Understanding of model-based system engineering techniques including proficiency using MBSE software such as Cameo
  • Experience with satellite missions operations including launch, in-orbit testing, and anomaly resolution
  • Experience with key mission design and analysis tools such as STK
  • Experience taking a product from concept phase through prototyping, launch, and operation
  • Demonstrated leadership of space systems engineering teams
  • The ability to lead trade studies and architect innovative solutions to difficult technical problems
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.

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