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Spacecraft Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Spacecraft Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$165K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Spacecraft Operations Engineer at Waypoint S plays a critical role in managing daily operations and supporting long-term missions within a large cross-functional team. Based on-site at the ...

Spacecraft GNC Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role We are seeking a seasoned Spacecraft GNC Engineer to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the ...

Spacecraft GNC Engineer (Early)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role We are seeking a Spacecraft GNC Engineer (Early) to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the position ...

Showing results 21-40

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 16, 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:

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 Thermal Engineer (Early Career) - Millennium Space Systems

Boeing Company

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$63K - $113K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 612 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer (Early Career) - Millennium Space Systems
Company:
Millennium Space Systems
Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS), is a fast, agile small satellite company focused on national security space. Our missions have direct impact to global security, like missile warning and Earth observation.
Our team is curious, bold and innovative. We take risks, innovate and explore new techniques and technologies. We influence change because we challenge the status quo. And when we watch our satellites launch, we know each one of us made it happen.
Job Summary:
Thermal Engineers support the Spacecraft Development Program Managers and Chief Systems Engineer through the development of all spacecraft thermal system configurations, designs, analyses, testing, and flight operations. Spacecraft thermal subsystem elements includes all passive and active means of controlling the satellite's system, subsystem, and component environments within both operating and survival limits during all pertinent system lifetime activities.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Perform spacecraft thermal design and analyses at the board, component, subsystem, and system level
  • Develop systems and spacecraft element thermal models to predict thermal loads, impacts, and temperature margins to support system design
  • Brief design and analysis materials to program managers, customers, and/or sponsors
  • Identify all materials, processes, and facilities to achieve a qualified spacecraft thermal design and operation
  • Support thermal verification testing on spacecraft systems and components including test design, test conduct, data reduction, analysis, and reporting
  • Assist in proposal and business development efforts

This position's internal job is Mech Sys Design & Anlys Engr. Our team is currently hiring for a Level 1-2.
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or other relevant fields
  • 1 or more years of experience in the design, development, analysis, implementation, testing, and/or operation of spacecraft thermal systems or other related complex thermal systems
  • 1 or more years of experience with thermal analysis tools (e.g. Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, Thermica)
  • This position requires the ability to obtain a US Security Clearance for which the US Government requires ship. A final U.S. clearance Post Start is required

Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.
Drug Free Workplace:
Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Total Rewards:
At Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Millennium Space Systems also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary pay range:
Level 1: $63,000 - $113,000
Level 2: $75,000 - $ 134,000
Millennium is DDTC-registered, ITAR-compliant Company. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified.
Category = Engineering
Language Requirements:
Not Applicable
Education:
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
Relocation:
Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
Export Control Requirement:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Safety Sensitive:
This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.
Security Clearance:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
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