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Spacecraft Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LLNL

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

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 ...

Turion Space

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

The Spacecraft Systems Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing of the whole spacecraft systems and subsystems. This role involves working on all phases of a satellite ...

Turion Space

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · Remote

$120K - $160K/yr

The Spacecraft Systems Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing of the whole spacecraft systems and subsystems. This role involves working on all phases of a satellite ...

Velos

Spacecraft System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsSpacecraft Jobs

Spacecraft information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking a highly technical and systems-minded Spacecraft Systems Engineer to serve as the technical owner across spacecraft development, from early mission architecture through flight delivery. In this role, you will lead spacecraft-level systems engineering activities, driving requirements development, interface management, design integration, and verification across propulsion, structures, avionics, software, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), and mission operations.
You will play a critical role in ensuring technical excellence throughout the spacecraft lifecycle while partnering closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, program leadership, customers, and mission stakeholders. This position is ideal for an engineer who combines deep spacecraft systems expertise with strong technical leadership and a passion for building and flying innovative space vehicles.
Where You'll Make an Impact
  • Own spacecraft-level technical execution across concept development, design, integration, test, and flight readiness
  • Lead end-to-end system architecture, requirements development, interface management, and configuration across all spacecraft subsystems
  • Conduct and lead system-level trade studies involving propulsion, power, mass properties, mission design, payload integration, and overall vehicle performance
  • Serve as the primary technical interface with customers, government stakeholders, mission partners, and internal program leadership
  • Lead major engineering reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)
  • Develop and execute spacecraft verification and validation strategies for both flight hardware and software
  • Support spacecraft assembly, integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, and mission readiness
  • Collaborate across propulsion, avionics, structures, software, GNC, manufacturing, and mission operations teams to ensure successful system integration
  • Mentor engineers while promoting technical rigor, rapid execution, and engineering best practices
  • Support multiple spacecraft development efforts in a dynamic, fast-paced engineering environment
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen systems engineering processes, design methodologies, and technical standards

What It Takes
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field (Master's degree preferred)
  • 3-12 years of spacecraft systems engineering experience supporting flight or flight-like hardware
  • Demonstrated experience owning spacecraft-level requirements, architecture development, subsystem integration, and technical execution
  • Experience leading technical development through at least one major spacecraft design milestone (PDR or later)
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems including propulsion, structures, avionics, GNC, power, thermal, and software interfaces
  • Experience developing system requirements, interface control documentation, verification plans, and technical baselines
  • Ability to serve as a technical authority within a fast-paced spacecraft development environment
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, executive leadership, customers, and government stakeholders

Nice-to-Have Experience
  • Experience serving as a Lead Systems Engineer or technical lead on a spacecraft development program
  • Experience supporting U.S. Space Force, Space Systems Command (SSC), NASA, NRO, SDA, AFRL, or other national security space programs
  • Deep technical background in spacecraft propulsion systems and high-delta-V mission design
  • Hands-on experience supporting spacecraft integration, environmental testing, launch campaigns, and flight operations
  • Familiarity with mission assurance, technical risk management, and systems engineering best practices
  • Experience using requirements and configuration management tools such as Jama, DOORS, JIRA, and Confluence
  • Working knowledge of CAD tools such as Creo or SolidWorks and multidisciplinary engineering principles across structural, thermal, and fluid systems
  • Programming or mission analysis experience using Python, MATLAB, or similar engineering tools
  • Active U.S. security clearance or ability to obtain one

What You'll Get
  • Ownership - Lead the technical development of advanced spacecraft from mission concept through launch and flight operations
  • Innovation - Help develop next-generation spacecraft that redefine mobility and maneuverability in space
  • Impact - Work on mission-critical programs supporting national security, civil, and commercial space customers
  • Growth - Join a collaborative engineering team focused on rapid execution, technical excellence, and continuous innovation
  • Compensation - Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing

Location: Rockville, MD; or Hawthorne, CA; or Denver, CO
Base Salary: $110,000 to $220,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full-time offers and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
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