ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Spacecraft Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

The ideal candidate is passionate about spacecraft thermal systems, as well as working with other engineers to optimize the design and inform design decisions on a cross-functional team. Bonus if you ...

Umbra

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

The ideal candidate is passionate about spacecraft thermal systems, as well as working with other engineers to optimize the design and inform design decisions on a cross-functional team. Bonus if you ...

SAIC

SIGINT Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Technical knowledge of spacecraft and ground systems and subsystems- space to ground and ground ... Programming, and data reduction and analysis, experience using Python and/or Interface Definition ...

Scout Space

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA

Scout is seeking a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to lead design and development of SCOUT payload thermal systems. As a Thermal Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the hardware development of ...

Scout Space

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

Scout is seeking a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to lead design and development of SCOUT payload thermal systems. As a Thermal Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the hardware development of ...

Scout Space

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA

Scout is seeking a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer to lead design and development of SCOUT payload thermal systems. As a Thermal Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the hardware development of ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSpacecraft Engineer JobsSpacecraft Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Spacecraft Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$41.6K

$107.7K

$163.6K

How much do spacecraft engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft engineer in Virginia is $107,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,700.00 and $131,400.00 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.
Spacecraft Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,706 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Space Systems Integration

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers. Our employees are forward-thinking, self-directed individuals who are committed to solving our customers' technical challenges.
SSI is seeking a Spacecraft Systems Engineer with a strong software and interface background to support a highly dynamic and innovative space program in Chantilly, VA.
This role supports critical national security space programs and requires close collaboration across government, contractor, and enterprise stakeholders.
In this position, you will provide Systems Engineering and Acquisition support with an emphasis on software-intensive systems, interfaces, and system integration across the spacecraft lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide proactive, day-to-day systems engineering support to Government customers within an integrated program office environment.
• Support full lifecycle acquisition and systems engineering activities, from pre-acquisition and requirements definition through launch and on-orbit checkout.
• Lead and support software and interface-focused systems engineering efforts, including definition, documentation, and coordination of system, subsystem, and external interfaces.
• Collaborate closely with contractor software engineers, systems engineers, and integration teams to resolve interface issues and manage technical risks.
• Author, review, and coordinate technical documentation, interface control documents (ICDs), requirements artifacts, briefings, and decision support materials.
• Participate in and represent the Government at contractor reviews, technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and program reviews, providing technical assessments and integration risk recommendations.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute systems engineering forums, working groups, and interface coordination meetings across the Customer office and broader Enterprise.
• Interface with multiple organizations across the Enterprise to support cross-program software integration, system interoperability, and enterprise-level events and reviews.
Required Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in an engineering, scientific, or technical discipline, and a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience.
  • Strong background in software-intensive systems engineering, system interfaces, and integration.
  • Experience supporting or working within Government acquisition or program offices.
  • Ability to manage technical tasks, priorities, and coordination efforts within a complex customer organization.
  • Must possess an active Top Secret/SCI clearance and CI polygraph (polygraph within the last ten (10) years).
  • Willingness to travel domestically as required.

$180,000 - $240,000 a year
Target salary range: $180,000 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors. We offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution.
#ssi #weknowhowtobuildit #spacejobs
Space Systems Integration provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
#ssi #weknowhowtobuildit #spacejobs

Apply