1

Spacecraft Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing of the whole spacecraft systems and subsystems. This role involves working on all phases of a ...

Staff Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$190K - $260K/yr

The Staff Spacecraft Systems Engineer ensures that all aspects of the mission, from requirements decomposition and traceability to mission capability verification, are properly defined, progressed ...

The Staff Spacecraft Systems Engineer ensures that all aspects of the mission, from requirements decomposition and traceability to mission capability verification, are properly defined, progressed ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Spacecraft Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$84.5K

$124.4K

$174.5K

How much do spacecraft systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft systems engineer in the United States is $124,441.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,000.00 and $151,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do SpaceX systems engineers make?

Spacecraft systems engineers at SpaceX typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in avionics or propulsion may earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and stock options.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior spacecraft systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often working in aerospace or defense industries can earn salaries around $300,000 annually. High-level roles may also include managerial responsibilities, specialized certifications, and work in high-cost-of-living areas or with government contracts.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior spacecraft systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in aerospace companies or government agencies. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives for top-tier professionals in specialized fields like propulsion, avionics, or mission design.

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 designs, integrates, and tests the various subsystems of a spacecraft to ensure they work together effectively. They analyze requirements, develop technical solutions, and use tools like CAD and simulation software, often working in multidisciplinary teams to support mission success.
More about Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft Systems Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs? The top employers for Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Spacecraft Systems Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 93% Full Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,441 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
Spacecraft Systems Engineer (Experienced) with Security Clearance

Spacecraft Systems Engineer (Experienced) with Security Clearance

Moseley Technical Services, Inc.

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$99K - $215K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Check out this new opportunity! Experienced Spacecraft Systems Engineer On-site in El Segundo, CA Target salary range: $99,000 - $215,000 As an Experienced Spacecraft Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the technical execution for programs and leading teams developing spacecraft systems serving a range of missions and customers. This includes creating, monitoring, and guiding requirements definition, spacecraft design, procurement and fabrication, integration and test, and verification and validation of the overall space vehicle system. You will interact with subsystem and unit engineers, manufacturing and test personnel, and program management. You will manage the technical elements of the space vehicle system. Responsibilities: * Responsible for all aspects of spacecraft systems engineering including performing preliminary concept development, trade studies, CONOPS definition, requirements decomposition and allocation, interface requirements definition, requirements verification and validation, support to integration and test operations, anomaly resolution, risk management, and schedule execution
* Collaborates with program and financial leadership to ensure successful programmatic execution
* Applies an interdisciplinary, collaborative approach to plan, design, develop and verify a lifecycle balanced solution for space systems
* Understands spacecraft subsystems functions and interfaces. Develop integrated spacecraft system designs and solutions
* Coordinates and communicates with subsystem engineering teams to ensure system execution
* Applies model-based systems engineering techniques for the definition of the spacecraft system
* Participate in software integration and test activities to ensure mission functionality prior to deployment into operations
* Performs tasks to analyze technical data, verify and sustain specific systems configurations in accordance with defined constraints and operational requirements
* Performs various analyses to optimize the spacecraft system and/or system architecture
* Resolves cross-functional technical issues
* Develops and improve systems engineering processes
* Provides mentorship to junior systems engineering and subsystem staff Qualifications: * U.S. Citizenship is required by Federal Law * This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance. for which the US Government requires U.S. Citizenship.
* A final U.S. Top Secret security clearance is required post start.
* Bachelor's degree in engineering or science discipline and 5 or more years of directly relevant industry experience with spacecraft systems; Master's degree and 3+ years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience; Level 4: Bachelor's degree in engineering or science discipline and 9 or more years of directly relevant industry experience with spacecraft systems; Master's degree and 7+ years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience.
* 1+ years of experience in some or all of the following: Space systems engineering principles and techniques; Power, mass, and other system budgets; Requirements analysis and flow-down; Design verification and validation processes; Configuration management; Satellite level integration and test processes Preferred Qualifications: * Master's degree in aerospace or other relevant engineering or science discipline * 9+ years' professional experience in space systems engineering * Direct experience with one or more rapid spacecraft development programs and missions. Experience with a full life cycle from concept to in-orbit operations * Demonstrated familiarity with program management principles and tools * An Active TS/SCI U.S. Security Clearance. Moseley Technical Services, Inc. is an AA/EEO/Veterans/Disabled Employer What to Expect Moseley Technical Services, Inc. (Moseley) was incorporated in 1994 to provide engineering and professional services to the aerospace/defense, manufacturing, government, and commercial industries. Our Mission is to deliver superior service to our customers and employees. We have achieved our vision by building long-term relationships with customers and employees through integrity, transparency, and appreciation. * To apply, send a resume to: * For more active job openings: Careers at Moseley Technical * For more information about us: Moseley Technical - Mission and Values! "We stand by our 30-year-old commitment of "World Class Service. World Class Company."

Moseley Technical Services logo

About Moseley Technical Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Moseley Technical Services, headquartered in Huntsville, AL, US, is a renowned player in the engineering services industry. They provide a diverse array of services, primarily focused on staffing and recruiting for various technical industries including aerospace, defense, and information technology. Incepted in 1995, this veteran-owned company prides itself on its strong commitment to its customers’ missions and to its employees.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Huntsville, AL, US

Year founded

1994

Social media