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Spacecraft Systems Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Avionics Systems Engineer positions Phoenix, AZ 85027 are available at Belcan supporting one of our ... spacecraft systems. · Full life cycle experience on Avionics Embedded Systems or software for ...

Staff Digital Systems Engineer Reporting To: Design Engineering Manager Work Schedule: Onsite ... Work on cutting-edge spacecraft and defense programs, influence technical direction as a Staff ...

Staff Digital Systems Engineer Reporting To: Design Engineering Manager Work Schedule: Onsite ... Work on cutting-edge spacecraft and defense programs, influence technical direction as a Staff ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the ... SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER I Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$80 - $130/hr

Onsite - Phoenix, AZ About the role We are seeking a mid‑level Lead Systems Engineer to act as the technical lead for a spacecraft avionics package. This person will be responsible for subsets of ...

New

Job Title: Systems Engineer This Systems Engineer role focuses on designing, integrating, and ... Support the development and testing of space payloads that will be integrated on spacecraft ...

Onsite - Phoenix, AZAbout the role We are seeking a midlevel Lead Systems Engineer to act as the technical lead for a spacecraft avionics package. This person will be responsible for subsets of ...

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Spacecraft Systems Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$78.7K

$116K

$162.6K

How much do spacecraft systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft systems engineer in Arizona is $115,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $140,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a spacecraft systems engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Spacecraft Systems Engineers play a central role in coordinating efforts between various engineering teams, such as propulsion, avionics, thermal, and structural engineering. They ensure that all subsystems integrate seamlessly and meet the overall mission requirements by facilitating regular cross-disciplinary meetings, maintaining clear documentation, and managing interface control documents. Effective collaboration is essential for identifying and resolving potential conflicts early in the design process, ensuring that the spacecraft system functions reliably as a whole. This teamwork-driven environment offers valuable opportunities to learn from specialists in different fields and develop a broad understanding of spacecraft design.

What is the difference between Spacecraft Systems Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectSpacecraft Systems EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like INCOSEBachelor's or Master's in Electrical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test spacecraft for space missionsDesign, develop, and maintain satellite systems for communication, navigation, or Earth observation
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, SpaceX, Boeing, aerospace firmsSatellite service providers, aerospace companies, defense contractors
Common Search & ComparisonHigh overlap in skills and certifications; both focus on complex systems engineering

Both roles require strong systems engineering skills, relevant certifications, and work in aerospace or satellite industries. The main difference lies in their focus: spacecraft systems engineers work on space exploration vehicles, while satellite systems engineers focus on satellite technology and operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spacecraft systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, systems integration, and spacecraft design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with modeling and simulation software (such as MATLAB, Simulink, or STK), as well as knowledge of industry standards like NASA or ESA protocols, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating multidisciplinary projects and resolving complex issues. These skills and qualities ensure the successful design, integration, and operation of spacecraft systems in highly demanding environments.

What does a spacecraft systems engineer do?

A Spacecraft Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, integrating, and managing the various subsystems that make up a spacecraft, such as propulsion, power, thermal control, and communications. They ensure that all components function together efficiently to meet the mission objectives. This role involves extensive collaboration with other engineering teams, oversight of technical requirements, and problem-solving throughout the spacecraft's development lifecycle. Spacecraft Systems Engineers also play a key role in testing, troubleshooting, and validating the overall performance of the spacecraft before launch.

What are popular job titles related to Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona?

For Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs in AZ?

For Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Spacecraft Systems Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,965 per year, or $55.8 per hour.

Space Mission Requirements and Planning Systems Engineer II (Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented...

Blue Origin

Phoenix, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit.

As a systems engineer on a hardworking team of specialists and engineers, you will lead the Mission Planning efforts as part our Blue Ring Mission Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (MSEIT) team. You will work at a space mission & system level, responsible for coordinating across multiple disciplines, internal Blue Origin teams, and external customer organizations to synthesize requirements into the definition of detailed Mission CONOP artifacts, mission activity plans, spacecraft and payload sequence plans, and related mission processes and procedures in a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) environment. This role will begin with a first-of-its-kind spacecraft in development and grow with the product line through multiple missions and objectives.

Special Mentions:

  • Relocation Assistance provided
  • Ability to obtain a Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance required

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Define mission artifacts such as CONOPs, activity diagrams, sequence diagrams, etc. in an MBSE environment to create digital mission threads
  • Collaborate with the Blue Ring Mission Lead Systems Engineers, Spacecraft Systems Engineering, Flight Software, Payload & Mission Integration, and Ground Systems Engineering Teams to define system requirements in a model-based environment across multiple customers and missions
  • Engage with internal and external customers, including government agencies and contractors, to perform analysis of unique customer and mission requirements
  • Evaluate unique mission requirements against spacecraft capabilities, constraints, design parameters, technical budgets, ICDs, program plans, and technical performance measures to define mission plans and specifications
  • Monitor, manage, and communicate changes in mission requirements, including participating in change review boards and technical forums to balance mission requirements with spacecraft capabilities and mission timelines
  • Perform mission planning trade studies and define mission scenarios in an MBSE environment for evaluation by leadership and customers
  • Work across organizations to identify, document, and communicate technical and programmatic risks to the mission, including the definition of detailed mitigation plans with associated cost & schedule impacts
  • Perform as the lead Requirements & Verification Systems Engineer for specific Blue Ring missions, including all aspects of requirement decomposition, derivation, and allocation
  • Develop and manage requirement specifications, including internal and external interfaces, with accurate flow-down and traceability

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a B.S. degree in engineering or equivalent technical field

  • 3+ years of related experience in one or a combination of the following: systems engineering, spaceflight operations, and space mission planning

  • Experience with requirements management tools such as DOORS, Jama, etc.
  • Experience performing activities such as requirements definition, traceability, interface definition, design documentation, integration, verification, and validation
  • Familiarity with, or experience in, Model-Based Systems Engineering, such as System Models and/or System Architecture diagrams

  • Experience developing and/or optimizing processes

  • Understanding of the Systems Engineering lifecycle and the "Systems Engineering V"

  • Proven problem-solving skills

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to obtain a US Government Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with MBSE/System Modeling tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler, Enterprise Architect, MagicDraw, or Rhapsody

  • Mission planning tool familiarity

  • Mission CONOPs development familiarity

  • Software or scripting language experience

  • Familiarity with System Architecture frameworks such as the Department of Defense Architecture Framework (DODAF), Unified Architecture Framework (UAF), or NASA Space Mission Architecture Framework (SMAF)

  • Spacecraft to ground-system interface familiarity

  • Experience across the product life cycle (pre-conceptual design through operational support)

  • Familiarity with spacecraft initialization and mission operations concepts

  • Knowledge of collaboration tools such as Confluence and JIRA

  • Familiarity with formal risk and opportunity management processes

  • Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Systems Architecture or a related discipline


Base Pay Range for:

CA applicants is $99,201.00 - $138,880.35 CO applicants is $90,934.00 - $127,307.25 WA applicants is $99,201.00 - $138,880.35 VA applicants is $99,201.00 - $138,880.35

Other site ranges may differ


Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.


Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.


Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.


Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.



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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000