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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Sep 11, 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 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,209 per year, or $67.4 per hour.

Senior Manager - Space Systems Engineering Department

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Boeing
Aviation • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage employees and mid-level managers performing engineering and technical activities in space systems engineering across SMS programs.

  • Generate cost estimates and support new business proposal development efforts for the systems engineering work scope.

  • Develop and execute organizational plans, policies, and procedures, and provide technical management oversight of space systems engineering work products.


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 618 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Senior Manager - Space Systems Engineering Department

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing's Space Mission Systems (SMS) Systems Engineering, Integration and Test (SEIT) Capability is seeking an experienced senior engineering leader to serve as the Senior Systems Engineering Manager for the Space Systems Engineering Department. This is an on-site role based out of El Segundo, CA. This Department Manager will provide day-to-day leadership for a functional organization with 120+ staff performing end-to-end systems engineering supporting our Space Mission Systems business. This Department Manager will be responsible for setting the strategy, vision, and developing implementation plans to provide the people, processes and tools to execute system engineering work scope for our El Segundo satellite business.

The ideal candidate will have a background in satellite system development as a technical lead and prior experience leading a highly skilled engineering workforce. This candidate will need to be an open and inclusive leader partnering with fellow department managers in SEIT, other engineering capabilities and program leadership.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Manage employees and mid-level managers performing engineering and technical activities in the area of space systems engineering across SMS programs.

  • Ensure appropriate skill mix of systems engineers are deployed across the portfolio.

  • Generate cost estimates and support new business proposal development efforts for the systems engineering work scope.

  • Develop and execute integrated organizational plans, policies and procedures and guide the development of business and technical strategies, goals, objectives.

  • Acquire resources for organizational activities, provide technical management oversight of space systems engineering work products and lead process improvements.

  • Develop and maintain relationships and partnerships with customers, stakeholders, peers, partners and direct reports.

  • Provide oversight and approval of technical approaches, products and processes.

  • Manage, develop and motivate employees and mid-level managers.

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at the listed location.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • This position requires a current Tier 5 (T5), formerly known as a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) (U.S. Citizenship required), or enrolled in a Continuous Vetting program within the last 5 years.

  • Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, or computer science.

  • 5+ years of experience leading or managing an engineering project or team

  • Product development and systems engineering experience.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Active U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)

  • 10+ years of experience as a functional engineering manager

  • Experience across the entire lifecycle of satellite system development.

  • Excellent communications skills, verbal and written.

  • Ability to effectively communicate at all levels of management, customers, and partners.

  • Ability to build a safe environment of inclusion, transparency, and trust.

  • Leadership skills to lead and influence positive outcomes.

  • Experience providing active mentorship and career guidance.

  • Can up-level existing team by hiring high performance talent, growing leaders and helping underperforming members.

  • Can gain trust of team and provide guidance for their careers.

Conflict of Interest:

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

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility. Note: Basic relocation will be offered for eligible internal candidates.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace 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.

Pay and Benefits:

At Boeing, 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.

The Boeing Company 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: $212,500 - $287,500

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

This is not an Export Control position.

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. A current Tier 5(T5), formerly known as a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) (U.S. Citizenship required) or requires candidate agreed to enter a Continuous Evaluation program 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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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Boeing

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At Boeing, we are all innovators on a mission to connect, protect, explore and inspire. From the sea bed to outer space, you'll learn and grow, contributing to work that shapes the world. Find your future with us.

Industry

Aviation and aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US