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Spacecraft Engineer Jobs in California (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 ...

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 ...

TEKsystems

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$75 - $115/hr

What You'll Do You'll provide end-to-end systems engineering support across the full spacecraft lifecycle -- from early design through integration, test, and deployment. That means leading or ...

TEKsystems

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$75 - $115/hr

What You'll Do You'll provide end-to-end systems engineering support across the full spacecraft lifecycle -- from early design through integration, test, and deployment. That means leading or ...

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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All JobsSpacecraft Engineer JobsSpacecraft Engineer Jobs in California

Spacecraft Engineer information

See California salary details

$41.5K

$107.2K

$162.8K

How much do spacecraft engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft engineer in California is $107,216.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,300.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a spacecraft engineer do?

A Spacecraft Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains spacecraft and related systems for missions in space. Their work involves integrating complex technologies, such as propulsion, navigation, communication, and life support systems, to ensure the spacecraft can operate safely and effectively. Spacecraft Engineers collaborate with scientists and other engineers to meet mission objectives and solve unique challenges encountered in the harsh environment of space.

What is the difference between Spacecraft Engineer vs Satellite Engineer?

AspectSpacecraft EngineerSatellite Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering; certifications in aerospace systemsBachelor's or higher in electrical, aerospace, or systems engineering; certifications in satellite systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test spacecraft in labs and cleanrooms; work with aerospace companies and agenciesDesign, maintain, and troubleshoot satellites; often in labs, ground stations, or field sites
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace firms, government space agencies, defense contractorsSatellite manufacturing companies, telecom firms, government agencies

Both roles require strong engineering backgrounds and work within the aerospace industry. Spacecraft Engineers focus on entire spacecraft systems, while Satellite Engineers specialize in satellite-specific technology. Both careers involve designing, testing, and maintaining space-related hardware, but their specific applications and environments differ slightly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spacecraft engineer?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as ITAR compliance are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set top candidates apart. These skills ensure the successful design, analysis, and operation of spacecraft systems in a highly collaborative and safety-critical environment.

How much do spacecraft engineers make?

Spacecraft engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $140,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in systems design, propulsion, and aerospace software can lead to higher compensation, especially in government agencies or private aerospace companies.

What are some common challenges faced by spacecraft engineers during a typical project lifecycle?

Spacecraft Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, managing strict project timelines, and addressing unexpected technical issues during design, testing, and launch phases. Balancing innovation with reliability is essential, as even minor errors can have significant consequences in space missions. Additionally, adapting to evolving client requirements and integrating new technologies while ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards are ongoing aspects of the role.
What cities in California are hiring for Spacecraft Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Spacecraft Engineer job openings:
Spacecraft Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,216 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Spacecraft Systems Engineer  to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Sr. Systems Engineering Manager, the Spacecraft Systems Engineer will support the systems engineering team in the development, analysis, and definition of spacecraft designs. The Spacecraft Systems Engineer will use their technical expertise to define and manage subsystem specifications, interface control documents, the concept of operations, and system performance analyses for satellite space and ground systems.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Responsible for technical ownership of the full product lifecycle from concept through design, manufacturing, test, and verification
  • Participate in the design and development of spacecraft systems, ensuring compliance with mission requirements and industry standards.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design and integrate various subsystems, including propulsion, power, communication, and thermal control.
  • Conduct detailed technical analyses and simulations to validate system performance and identify potential issues.
  • Assist in the development and management of system requirements, ensuring traceability from high-level mission objectives down to component specifications.
  • Work with government and commercial customers to define system requirements and coordinate all technical aspects of the mission.
  • Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop optimal solutions to complex problems.
  • Develop system architectures that efficiently satisfy customer and internal requirements.
  • Perform system trade studies to balance risk, cost, and performance.
  • Document architecture diagrams, system interfaces, requirements, flow downs, allocations, and verification methodologies.
  • Prepare and lead system design reviews.
  • Develop and execute test plans and procedures for spacecraft systems and subsystems.
  • Identify, analyze, and resolve technical issues that arise during the design, development, and testing phases.
  • Perform requirements verification and validation activities to ensure compliance with mission goals.
  • Additional responsibilities as necessary, including support of other program or product teams when subject matter expertise, review, or input is required.

Qualifications and Skills

  • BS or MS in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or a related discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in systems engineering or similar disciplines related to spacecraft
  • Familiarity with satellite systems and subsystems
  • Familiarity with requirements mapping and decomposition
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, SolidWorks, STK, and Linux
  • Familiarity with satellite system budgets including mass, power, and link budgets
  • Familiarity with satellite program lifecycles, development flows, test events, and verification and validation
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance

Apply