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Spacecraft Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quantum Space

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Rockville, MD

$110K - $220K/yr

Our high-delta-V spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions where propulsion capability and rapid execution matter. We are hiring a Spacecraft Systems Engineer to ...

LLNL

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

We have multiple openings for Spacecraft Systems Engineers to provide spacecraft subject matter expertise as part of a multi-disciplinary team performing concept development, requirements generation ...

Velos

Spacecraft System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Spacecraft System Engineer: Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs. Roles and Responsibilities : Leads system ...

Velos

Spacecraft System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Spacecraft System Engineer: Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs. Roles and Responsibilities : Leads system ...

LLNL

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA

We have multiple openings for Spacecraft Systems Engineers to provide spacecraft subject matter expertise as part of a multi-disciplinary team performing concept development, requirements generation ...

Velos

Spacecraft System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Spacecraft System Engineer: Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs. Roles and Responsibilities : Leads system ...

LLNL

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

We have multiple openings for Spacecraft Systems Engineers to providespacecraft subject matter expertise as part of a multi-disciplinary team performing conceptdevelopment, requirements generation ...

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Spacecraft information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Spacecraft vs Satellite?

AspectSpacecraftSatellite
Required credentialsEngineering degrees, specialized training in spacecraft systemsEngineering or science degrees, satellite technology knowledge
Work environmentManufacturing facilities, launch sites, space missionsOrbiting Earth or other celestial bodies, ground stations
Industry usageSpace exploration, research, deep space missionsCommunications, weather monitoring, navigation

Spacecraft and satellites share many skills and credentials, but spacecraft generally refer to vehicles designed for space exploration or research, while satellites are primarily used for communication, navigation, or observation. Both roles involve working in aerospace environments and require specialized technical knowledge.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers working on spacecraft or satellite systems can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level engineers in specialized fields such as propulsion, avionics, or systems integration at major aerospace companies are more likely to reach this compensation level.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A spacecraft technician or specialist in the aerospace industry can earn around $10,000 per month with relevant experience and technical skills, often gained through certifications or on-the-job training rather than a traditional degree. High-paying roles in this field typically require specialized knowledge of spacecraft systems, troubleshooting, and maintenance, and may involve working in manufacturing, testing, or mission support environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Spacecraft Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards like NASA or ESA guidelines are essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for addressing complex technical challenges and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing, building, and maintaining safe and reliable spacecraft that perform critical missions.

What careers work with space?

Careers that work with space include aerospace engineers, astrophysicists, satellite technicians, mission controllers, and spacecraft designers. These roles often require knowledge of physics, engineering, and computer systems, and may involve working in laboratories, research facilities, or on space missions.

What are common challenges faced by engineers working on spacecraft development projects?

Engineers working on spacecraft development often encounter challenges such as strict weight and material constraints, the need for rigorous testing to ensure reliability in harsh space environments, and tight project timelines driven by mission schedules. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—such as propulsion, avionics, and structural engineering—is essential to address complex system integration issues. Additionally, adapting to rapid technological advancements and evolving mission requirements can require continuous learning and flexibility.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the aerospace industry, senior spacecraft engineers, project managers, and executives can earn $400,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require specialized skills, certifications, and years of experience in spacecraft design, development, or management.

What are spacecraft?

Spacecraft are vehicles or machines designed to travel in outer space. They can be crewed or uncrewed and are used for a variety of purposes, such as exploration, communication, Earth observation, and scientific research. Spacecraft can operate in Earth's orbit, travel to other planets, or journey beyond our solar system. They play a crucial role in expanding our understanding of space and supporting modern technologies like GPS, weather forecasting, and satellite television.
More about Spacecraft jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft job openings:
What states have the most Spacecraft jobs? States with the most job openings for Spacecraft jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Spacecraft jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Spacecraft jobs are:
Spacecraft jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD

$110K - $220K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Who We're Looking For
Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in orbit. Our high-delta-V spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions where propulsion capability and rapid execution matter.

We are hiring a Spacecraft Systems Engineer to serve as a technical owner across spacecraft development, from early mission architecture through flight delivery. This is not a paperwork-only systems role. You will operate as a program technical lead, driving requirements, interfaces, design maturity, and verification across propulsion, structures, avionics, software, and mission operations.

We are looking for someone deeply technical, systems-minded, hardware-grounded, and comfortable leading multidisciplinary teams through high-stakes design reviews.

Where You'll Make an Impact

  • Own spacecraft-level technical execution across concept, design, integration, and flight readiness
  • Lead end-to-end system architecture, requirements, and interface control across all subsystems
  • Drive major trade studies (propulsion, power, mass, mission design, payload integration) with clear engineering judgment
  • Serve as a key technical interface to customers, government stakeholders, and mission partners
  • Lead internal and external reviews including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and FRR
  • Establish and enforce verification and validation strategy for both hardware and flight software
  • Support hands-on spacecraft assembly, integration, environmental test, and launch campaign readiness
  • Mentor engineers and raise the bar on technical rigor, execution speed, and engineering standards

What It Takes 

  • B.S. in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering, Physics, or similar field (M.S. preferred)
  • 3 to 12 years of spacecraft systems engineering experience on flight or flight-like hardware
  • Demonstrated ownership of spacecraft-level requirements, architecture, and subsystem integration
  • Experience leading technical execution through at least one major milestone (PDR or beyond)
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems, especially propulsion, structures, avionics, and GNC interfaces
  • Ability to operate as a technical authority in a fast-moving, build-and-fly environment
  • Excellent communication skills, able to lead engineers, brief executives, and interface with customers

Strongly Preferred Experience

  • Former Lead Systems Engineer, or technical lead for a spacecraft program
  • Experience with DoD space programs, or national security missions
  • Deep background in spacecraft propulsion systems and high-delta-V mission design
  • Hands-on experience supporting integration, environmental test, and flight operations
  • Familiarity with mission assurance, risk management, and technical standards enforcement
  • Active clearance or eligibility is a plus

Tools and Technical Breadth

  • Requirements and configuration tools (Jama, DOORS, JIRA, Confluence)
  • CAD familiarity (Creo or SolidWorks) and strong engineering intuition across thermal, structural, and fluids domains
  • Mission analysis and engineering programming skills (Python or MATLAB) strongly valued

Why Quantum Space

  • Build spacecraft that actually fly, rapidly and repeatedly
  • Own real technical authority, not just process
  • Work with a team pushing the frontier of high-mobility space logistics
  • Competitive compensation, equity, and top-tier benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing

Location: Rockville, MD

Base Salary: $110,000 to $220,000 

Export Compliance Requirement
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Apply