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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Space Systems Integration

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers. Our employees are forward-thinking, self ...

Space Systems Integration

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers. Our employees are forward-thinking, self ...

IESE Solutions

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead technical requirements development, systems engineering, and oversee development contractor to develop, design, produce, integrate and test space systems. * Oversee payload integration and ...

IESE Solutions

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead technical requirements development, systems engineering, and oversee development contractor to develop, design, produce, integrate and test space systems. * Oversee payload integration and ...

IESE Solutions

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead technical requirements development, systems engineering, and oversee development contractor to develop, design, produce, integrate and test space systems. * Oversee payload integration and ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). This position is located in El Segundo, CA . You ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). This position is located in El Segundo, CA . You ...

Waypoint Sierra Consultants

Be Seen First

Space System Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$195K - $240K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Space System Engineer will lead complex spacecraft development projects within a large ... Expertise in systems engineering and requirements analysis * Proven skills in risk management and ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

This role requires extensive expertise in government weapon systems engineering, strategic planning, and program integration to support the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). This ...

SAIC

Chief Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Engage with Space Vehicle (SV) Contractors to evaluate hardware and software designs against ...

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Space Systems Engineering information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$140.2K

$193.4K

How much do space systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineering in California is $140,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $170,700.00 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 California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,209 per year, or $67.4 per hour.

Space Systems Engineer

Space Systems Integration

El Segundo, CA

$190K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers.  Our employees are forward-thinking, self-directed individuals who are committed to solving our customers’ technical challenges.

SSI is seeking a Space Systems Engineer for a role in El Segundo, CA.
 
You will serve as a critical embedded member of the Government applying advanced systems engineering principles to shape and deliver the next generation capability. The role emphasizes leveraging tailored, rapid acquisition frameworks while integrating space, ground, and mission segments. Your expertise will be instrumental in driving program planning, risk mitigation, technical oversight, and execution.
 
Role and Responsibilities include:
  • Support the Government program manager as the lead technical representative for a major space system acquisition.
  • Engage with development contractors evaluating designs, models, integration and test plans.
  • Responsible for Government system level requirements and enterprise interfaces.
  • Oversee payload integration and manage interface control with stakeholders.
  • Performs system integration of ground segment and deployment into operations including concepts of operation (CONOPS) development.
  • Oversees requirements verification and validation.
  • Makes program risks assessments and provides actionable recommendations to the chief engineer and program manager.
  • Independently collaborates with Government program office representatives, FFRDC, SETA, and contractor personnel.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more applicable experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience.
  • Experience leading systems engineering teams focused on integration of complex space and/or ground systems.
  • Experience using tools such as Cameo, JIRA, Confluence.
  • Active TS clearance with in-scope T5/SSBI is required, along with SCI eligibility and participation in Continuous Evaluation.
  • Must meet all requirements for SCI and SAP access and be willing to undergo a polygraph examination.
  • Travel is 25%

Target salary range: $190,000 - $220,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range and bonus potential for this position based on experience and other factors. We offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution. 

Space Systems Integration provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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