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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Northrop Grumman

Systems Engineer - Level 2

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

... engineering lifecycle culminating in the on-orbit delivery of fully mission capable space vehicles to our customers. This Systems Engineer position is for an individual-contributor within a multi ...

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Northrop Grumman

Systems Engineer - Level 4

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

... space-segment technical issues and risks Lead the team through major program milestone and readiness reviews Preside over mission specific engineering review boards, change control boards, and risk ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Glendale, AZ · 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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Space Systems Engineering information

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$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.
Space Systems Engineering jobs near you
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.

Systems Engineer - Level 3

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

Northrop Grumman Corporation
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Northrop Grumman Corporationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 547 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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.

Northrop Grumman's Space Systems Sector is seeking a Systems Engineer - Level 3 to join our team in Gilbert, Arizona.

Successful candidates for this position will work as a Principal System Engineer on a national security space program. Spacecraft Systems Engineers are key members of a cross-disciplinary team helping drive the design, development, integration & test, launch, and on-orbit operations of space vehicles. As a Spacecraft Systems Engineer, you will have unique opportunities to witness and take part in the entire engineering lifecycle culminating in the on-orbit delivery of fully mission capable space vehicles to our customers!

This Principal Systems Engineering position is for an individual-contributor within a multi-disciplinary engineering team. Responsibilities include design, integration, development and testing of space payloads, spacecraft buses, and satellites. Come join our team and help us keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Job Responsibilities:

Perform requirements development, allocation, verification/validation planning and manage interface definition efforts.

Write complex specifications, interface control documents, and engineering reports.

Support interface/communication with program, functional and subsystem leads.

Assist with trade studies, system sensitivity studies, design optimization studies, system performance assessments, mission analysis and timelines, and CONOPS development.

Support execution activities including engineering review board and configuration control board

Prepare review/briefing material for working group meetings, reviews and program status

Provide on-floor support of integration, testing, and operational readiness of spacecraft and payloads.

Other tasks may include electrical harness interface design, integration and test development and support, mechanical systems support, Command & Telemetry database development, and space vehicle configuration modeling.

Ability to capture core concepts and instructional needs from a large amount of technical data (ground and space hardware) and communicate technical concepts to peers

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) discipline with 5+ years of engineering experience OR

Master's degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) discipline with 3 years of experience

Self-starter with strong technical problem-solving skills, an aptitude for understanding system and subsystem interactions and initiative to drive product development to closure

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Previous engineering experience, preferably on space programs or satellite operations

Understanding of Systems Engineering functions

Ability and willingness to obtain US Government Top Secret clearance at time of application.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in space systems, spacecraft design, or mission operations

Experience in requirements development, decomposition and allocation

Understanding of spacecraft/space system integration & test, launch, and/or mission operations

Experience in requirements management, system architecture, and CONOPs development

Experience with various technical tools such as MATLAB, STK, CORE, DOORS, or CAMEO

Experience in any of the following areas is also desired: orbital mechanics, orbital debris modeling, spacecraft attitude control, power systems and modeling, avionics or digital electronics design, risk analysis, optics, communications, thermal design and analysis, or spacecraft integration and testing (either at the spacecraft or payload level)

Active or current U.S. Government Top Secret Security Clearance

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:

https://www.northropgrumman.com/space.

Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site: Northrop Grumman Total Rewards

As a full-time employee of Northrop Grumman, you are eligible for:

-Medical, Dental & Vision coverage

-401k

-Educational Assistance

-Life Insurance

-Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions

-Paid Time Off

-Health & Wellness Resources

-Employee Discounts

-Flexible Schedules:for example, the ability to work a 9/80 work schedule, which allows an employee to work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday and take every other Friday off of work.

Primary Level Salary Range: $98,400.00 - $147,600.00The 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

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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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