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Space Systems Engineering Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Space Systems Engineering experience Why Leidos? At Leidos, you'll work alongside experts solving some of the nation's toughest security challenges. We empower our engineers to lead, innovate, and ...

Space Systems Engineering experience Why Leidos? At Leidos, you'll work alongside experts solving some of the nation's toughest security challenges. We empower our engineers to lead, innovate, and ...

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Space Systems Engineering information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$60.1K

$141.2K

$194.8K

How much do space systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineering in Baltimore, MD is $141,166.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,300.00 and $171,900.00 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 Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,166 per year, or $67.9 per hour.

Space RADAR Data Processing - Principal/Sr Principal Engineer Systems (AHT)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Linthicum, MD • On-site

$131K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: NoDescriptionAt 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 Space Systems is a strategic partner specializing in delivering intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance solutions for classified and unclassified missions in space. As part of Eastern Region Systems Engineering, Integration and Test (ER-SEIT), you will have the opportunity to experience the entire space design lifecycle. We do it all here, on-site, from sensors to payloads to full up spacecraft, supporting Class A to Class D missions. All the way from early mission and concept design to on-orbit operational support.

Northrop Grumman Space Systems in Linthicum, MD is seeking a Systems Engineer to develop, enhance, and implement new RADAR data processing algorithms into the existing MATLAB model, called "System Bench", of our Space Radar Data Processing Element (DPE) for our development, production, and on-orbit Space Radar Payload programs.

As a member of the System Bench (MATLAB Radar Processing) team, you will be responsible for the development, enhancement, and implementation of algorithms for RADAR data processing and exploitation for new RADAR modes and capabilities for Space applications.

This position is on-site in a classified program area in Linthicum, Maryland.

This position can be staffed at a Principal or Sr. Principal level based on the Basic Qualifications below.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Principal Engineer: BS in STEM with 5 years relevant experience or 3 years with MS

  • Sr Principal Engineer: BS in STEM with 8 years relevant experience or 6 years with MS

  • RF (Radio Frequency) Signal Processing, ideally for RADAR, but for SIGINT, EW and/or COMMS is acceptable

  • MATLAB programming experience

  • Must have an active U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearance at time of application, current and within scope, with the ability to obtain and maintain SCI approval/access.

Our Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket)

  • Experience with RADAR signal processing in MATLAB

  • Experience integrating and testing RADAR modes

  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or Math

  • Active SCI access/approval

Primary Level Salary Range: $105,400.00 - $158,000.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $131,100.00 - $196,700.00The 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

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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