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Spacecraft Systems 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 ...

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

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 providespacecraft subject matter expertise as part of a multi-disciplinary team performing conceptdevelopment, requirements generation ...

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Spacecraft Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$83.4K

$122.8K

$172.2K

How much do spacecraft systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft systems engineer in California is $122,812.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $149,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

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The top searched job categories for Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

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Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,812 per year, or $59 per hour.

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 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

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