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Spacecraft Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs. Roles and Responsibilities : Leads system engineering activities of ...

Spacecraft System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs. Roles and Responsibilities : Leads system engineering activities of ...

Spacecraft System Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs. Roles and Responsibilities : Leads system engineering activities of ...

Space Systems Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the design, development, and ... In this role, you will work on the development of spacecraft and satellite systems, ensuring their ...

Space Systems Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the design, development, and ... In this role, you will work on the development of spacecraft and satellite systems, ensuring their ...

Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$123K - $168K/yr

We are currently seeking a Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer to lead system development, verification, and test of Planet's next-generation satellite platforms, covering multiple domains including ...

Space Systems Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the design, development, and ... In this role, you will work on the development of spacecraft and satellite systems, ensuring their ...

Space Systems Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the design, development, and ... In this role, you will work on the development of spacecraft and satellite systems, ensuring their ...

Space Systems Engineer LOCATIONReston, VA 20190 CLEARANCETS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... In this role, you will work on the development of spacecraft and satellite systems, ensuring their ...

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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 20, 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 System Engineer

Spacecraft System Engineer

Velos

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Velos is a full-service engineering and technical services company supporting agencies such as the DoD NASA, and NOAA. As an SBA-certified HUBZone small business, Velos combines agile and highly skilled engineering and technical support-delivering unmatched execution to our customers. Our government relations consulting business area allows us to represent and support leaders in the defense, aerospace, intelligence, and related industries with decades of experience in market analysis and strategic planning.

We are looking for highly qualified candidates for an upcoming contract positioned onsite at the Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) SSHINE contract.

Spacecraft System Engineer:

Qualified candidates are knowledgeable Spacecraft Systems Engineers, preferably with experience working on classified programs.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Leads system engineering activities of spacecraft and instrument systems, including mechanical, thermal, cryogenic, electrical, and other subsystems systems. Plans, designs, develops, evaluates, tests, and integrates spacecraft and instrument systems, including the implementation and design of hardware and software. Captures, understands, translates, and documents customer requirements. Defines system and product requirements; and generates mechanical, electrical, and software performance and reliability specifications and requirements. Creates and maintains programmatic and technical documentation to insure efficient planning and execution. Manages and documents system configurations and oversees all transitions into production. Performs troubleshooting and remediation, ensures successful project implementation, and performs post project end user support.

Education Requirements:

  • 10+ years of experience with BS degree or 5+ years of experience with MS degree or 0+ years of experience with PhD degree.

Clearance Requirements:

  • TS with ability to obtain SCI.
  • Please Note: U.S. Citizenship is required for this position.

Velos offers a competitive benefits package including PTO, 401K, and health benefits.

Velos is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sex, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.