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Space Systems Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

Cymertek Corporation

Space Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

Cymertek Corporation

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

Cymertek

Space Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Engineering, Physics, Robotics, Computer ...

Astrion

Space Systems Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Overview Space Systems Engineer LOCATION: Albuquerque, New Mexico US (On-Site) JOB STATUS ... Aerospace Engineering * Electrical Engineering * Mechanical Engineering Experience: * Experience ...

KBR

Space Systems Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Space Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR ... KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology ...

SAIC

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

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 ...

The Aerospace Corporation

$117K - $226K/yr

Coordinating Systems Engineering support for milestone reviews * Providing on-site Aerospace ... Experience with development, test, and implementation of Space systems * Prior engineering ...

Astrion

Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Bachelor of Science degree in STEM field (Engineering, Physics, Earth Science, Mathematics ... space systems within the USSF or DoD mission space * Strong foundation in systems engineering ...

The Aerospace Corporation

$117K - $226K/yr

Coordinating Systems Engineering support for milestone reviews * Providing on-site Aerospace ... Experience with development, test, and implementation of Space systems * Prior engineering ...

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How much do space systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for space systems engineering in the United States is $142,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,000.00 and $173,000.00 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.
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Space Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Systems Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,070 per year, or $68.3 per hour.

Space Systems Engineer

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM • On-site

Astrion
5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Astrionexternal

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview

Space Systems Engineer 

LOCATION: Albuquerque, New Mexico US (On-Site) 

JOB STATUS: Full-time 

CLEARANCE: DoD Secret Clearance 

TRAVEL: 10% 

Astrion is seeking a Space Systems Engineer to support spacecraft engineering, satellite operations, and ground system development for the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base. 

This role is ideal for junior- to mid-level engineers with experience in Orbital Mechanics, spacecraft systems engineering, satellite operations, and the spacecraft development lifecycle. The engineer will support mission planning, spacecraft development activities, and on-orbit mission operations for small satellite programs. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS 

Education: 

Bachelor of Science in one of the following or a related technical field: 

  • Aerospace Engineering 
  • Electrical Engineering 
  • Mechanical Engineering 

Experience: 

  • Experience with scripting languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python) 
  • Experience with spacecraft orbital simulation software (e.g., Systems Tool Kit (STK), FreeFlyer) 
  • Experience with spacecraft development or satellite operations 
  • Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems and interfaces including power, communications, command and data handling, and attitude determination and control systems (ADCS) 

Core Competencies: 

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
  • Ability to work independently and execute technical tasking 
  • Effective communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders 
  • Ability to lead technical discussions and coordinate engineering activities 
  • Strong technical documentation and organizational skills 
  • Ability to develop well-documented analysis scripts and technical tools 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS 

  • Professional experience in a space systems engineering or spacecraft operations role 
  • Experience supporting spacecraft mission planning or on-orbit operations 
  • Master’s degree in a relevant technical field 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Execute technical tasking from government engineers and program managers 
  • Support spacecraft systems engineering activities including requirements management, risk tracking, architecture trades, and orbit analysis 
  • Support on-orbit spacecraft operations and mission experiments