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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Fun stuff you will do on the job: • Engage with Space Vehicle (SV) Contractors to evaluate ...

Systems Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$94K - $156K/yr

Lanteris Space is seeking a Systems Engineer who can apply their knowledge and experience in systems engineering activities in support of our current programs for our offices in Palo Alto CA. The ...

Systems Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

Lanteris Space is seeking a Systems Engineer who can apply their knowledge and experience in systems engineering activities in support of our current programs for our offices in Palo Alto CA. The ...

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 ...

... engineering, and oversee development Contractors to develop, design, produce, integrate and test space systems • Oversee integration and test of payloads • Perform system requirements and ...

Job Title: Specialist, Space Systems Engineer Job Code: 40152 Job Location: San Diego, CA Job ... Lead multi-disciplinary engineering teams through the entire systems engineering lifecycle, from ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
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.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer (mid-career) - Millennium Space Systems

Boeing

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 613 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Spacecraft Systems Engineer (mid-career) - Millennium Space Systems

Company:

Millennium Space Systems

Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS), is a fast, agile small satellite company focused on national security space. Our missions have direct impact to global security, like missile warning and Earth observation.

Our team is curious, bold and innovative. We take risks, innovate and explore new techniques and technologies. We influence change because we challenge the status quo. And when we watch our satellites launch, we know each one of us made it happen.

As an Experienced Spacecraft Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the technical execution for programs and leading teams developing spacecraft systems serving a range of missions and customers. This includes creating, monitoring, and guiding requirements definition, spacecraft design, procurement and fabrication, integration and test, and verification and validation of the overall space vehicle system. You will interact with subsystem and unit engineers, manufacturing and test personnel, and program management. You will manage the technical elements of the space vehicle system. Our spacecraft systems engineers create spacecraft -- not just paperwork!

Position Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for all aspects of spacecraft systems engineering including performing preliminary concept development, trade studies, CONOPS definition, requirements decomposition and allocation, interface requirements definition, requirements verification and validation, support to integration and test operations, anomaly resolution, risk management, and schedule execution

  • Collaborates with program and financial leadership to ensure successful programmatic execution

  • Applies an interdisciplinary, collaborative approach to plan, design, develop and verify a lifecycle balanced solution for space systems

  • Understands spacecraft subsystems functions and interfaces. Develop integrated spacecraft system designs and solutions

  • Coordinates and communicates with subsystem engineering teams to ensure system execution

  • Applies model-based systems engineering techniques for the definition of the spacecraft system

  • Participate in software integration and test activities to ensure mission functionality prior to deployment into operations

  • Performs tasks to analyze technical data, verify and sustain specific systems configurations in accordance with defined constraints and operational requirements

  • Performs various analyses to optimize the spacecraft system and/or system architecture

  • Resolves cross-functional technical issues

  • Develops and improve systems engineering processes

  • Provides mentorship to junior systems engineering and subsystem staff

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills / Experience):

  • This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance. for which the US Government requires U.S. Citizenship. A final U.S. Top Secret security clearance is required post start.

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or science discipline and 5 or more years of directly relevant industry experience with spacecraft systems; Master's degree and 3+ years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience; Level 4: Bachelor's degree in engineering or science discipline and 9 or more years of directly relevant industry experience with spacecraft systems; Master's degree and 7+ years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience.

  • 1+ years of experience in some or all of the following: Space systems engineering principles and techniques; Power, mass, and other system budgets; Requirements analysis and flow-down; Design verification and validation processes; Configuration management; Satellite level integration and test processes

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Master's degree in aerospaceor other relevant engineeringor science discipline

  • 9+ years' professional experience in space systems engineering

  • Direct experience with one or more rapid spacecraft development programs and missions. Experience with a full life cycle from concept to in-orbit operations

  • Demonstrated familiarity with program management principles and tools

  • An Active TS/SCI U.S. Security Clearance.

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process

Drug Free Workplace:

Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Total Rewards:

At Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

Millennium Space Systems also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range:

  • Level 3: $99,000 - $177,000

  • Level 4: $121,000 - $215,000

Millennium is DDTC-registered, ITAR-compliant Company. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens and eligible for a security clearance. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified.

Category = Engineering

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Top Secret/SCI Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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