1

Spacecraft Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

The Spacecraft Systems Engineer will support a program office for a Major System Acquisition who requires a mid-career engineer with technical expertise in systems engineering who is anxious to grow ...

Showing results 41-60

Spacecraft Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft engineer 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 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.
More about Spacecraft Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Spacecraft Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Spacecraft Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

TEKsystems

El Segundo, CA

$75 - $115/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

We're looking for a seasoned Systems Engineer to join a team supporting some of the most consequential space programs in the U.S. defense enterprise. You'll be embedded in the heart of the nation's space security architecture — working directly alongside U.S. Space Force and DoD stakeholders to design, integrate, test, and deliver advanced space vehicle systems that underpin America's strategic advantage in space.

This isn't a support role. You'll be a technical authority — guiding subsystem integration, driving design and readiness reviews, and ensuring that spacecraft perform when it matters most. The programs you'll touch are classified, mission-critical, and directly tied to U.S. operational readiness in an increasingly contested space domain.

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 supporting major program reviews (SRR, SDR, PDR, CDR), overseeing spacecraft-level environmental and performance testing (TVAC, Acoustic, EMI/EMC), and ensuring requirements are verified and traceable. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with government customers and contractor teams onsite at Los Angeles Air Force Base, where the decisions you make have real downstream impact on mission capability.

What You'll Bring

You have at least 6 years of space vehicle systems engineering experience, including hands-on development, integration, and testing of spacecraft subsystems. You've supported major program reviews and know how to navigate the complexity of large-scale space programs. You communicate clearly with both technical teams and government stakeholders, and you're comfortable working in a fast-paced, classified environment where precision and accountability are non-negotiable. Experience with Confluence and Jira is a plus — as is a Master's degree, PMP, CSEP, ESEP, or OCSMP certification.

Top Skills

  • 6+ years of space vehicle systems engineering experience
  • 6+ years supporting development, integration, and testing of spacecraft subsystems
  • 3+ years supporting major space program reviews (SRR, SDR, PDR, CDR, etc.)
  • Experience with Confluence and/or Jira
  • Strong communication and customer engagement skills

Additional Skills

  • Spacecraft-level environmental and performance testing (TVAC, Acoustic, EMI/EMC)
  • Requirements verification experience
  • Program management experience
  • Knowledge of DoD acquisition lifecycle and systems engineering processes
  • Experience across space, ground, or user segments
  • Master's degree in a relevant technical discipline
  • PMP, ESEP, CSEP, or OCSMP certification

Experience Level

Expert Level

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of El Segundo, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $75.00 - $115.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in El Segundo,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 17, 2026.

About TEKsystems

We're partners in transformation. We help clients activate ideas and solutions to take advantage of a new world of opportunity. We are a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 clients, including 80% of the Fortune 500, across North America, Europe and Asia. As an industry leader in Full-Stack Technology Services, Talent Services, and real-world application, we work with progressive leaders to drive change. That's the power of true partnership. TEKsystems is an Allegis Group company.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

About TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services

We’re a leading provider of business and technology services. We accelerate business transformation for our customers. Our expertise in strategy, design, execution and operations unlocks business value through a range of solutions. We’re a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 customers, including 80% of the Fortune 500 across North America, Europe and Asia, who partner with us for our scale, full-stack capabilities and speed. We’re strategic thinkers, hands-on collaborators, helping customers capitalize on change and master the momentum of technology. We’re building tomorrow by delivering business outcomes and making positive impacts in our global communities. TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services are Allegis Group companies. Learn more at TEKsystems.com.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.