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Spacecraft Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Whether it's a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built ...

Spacecraft GNC Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $180K/yr

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space ...

Whether it's a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built ...

Spacecraft Engineering Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$169K - $237K/yr

With support from spacecraft subsystem, systems, and integration engineers from the Spacecraft Development organization, you will be responsible for delivering a mission specific Blue Ring spacecraft.

Spacecraft Engineering Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$169K - $237K/yr

With support from spacecraft subsystem, systems, and integration engineers from the Spacecraft Development organization, you will be responsible for delivering a mission specific Blue Ring spacecraft.

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Spacecraft information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft 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 is the difference between Spacecraft vs Satellite?

AspectSpacecraftSatellite
Required credentialsEngineering degrees, specialized training in spacecraft systemsEngineering or science degrees, satellite technology knowledge
Work environmentManufacturing facilities, launch sites, space missionsOrbiting Earth or other celestial bodies, ground stations
Industry usageSpace exploration, research, deep space missionsCommunications, weather monitoring, navigation

Spacecraft and satellites share many skills and credentials, but spacecraft generally refer to vehicles designed for space exploration or research, while satellites are primarily used for communication, navigation, or observation. Both roles involve working in aerospace environments and require specialized technical knowledge.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers working on spacecraft or satellite systems can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level engineers in specialized fields such as propulsion, avionics, or systems integration at major aerospace companies are more likely to reach this compensation level.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A spacecraft technician or specialist in the aerospace industry can earn around $10,000 per month with relevant experience and technical skills, often gained through certifications or on-the-job training rather than a traditional degree. High-paying roles in this field typically require specialized knowledge of spacecraft systems, troubleshooting, and maintenance, and may involve working in manufacturing, testing, or mission support environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Spacecraft Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards like NASA or ESA guidelines are essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for addressing complex technical challenges and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing, building, and maintaining safe and reliable spacecraft that perform critical missions.

What careers work with space?

Careers that work with space include aerospace engineers, astrophysicists, satellite technicians, mission controllers, and spacecraft designers. These roles often require knowledge of physics, engineering, and computer systems, and may involve working in laboratories, research facilities, or on space missions.

What are common challenges faced by engineers working on spacecraft development projects?

Engineers working on spacecraft development often encounter challenges such as strict weight and material constraints, the need for rigorous testing to ensure reliability in harsh space environments, and tight project timelines driven by mission schedules. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—such as propulsion, avionics, and structural engineering—is essential to address complex system integration issues. Additionally, adapting to rapid technological advancements and evolving mission requirements can require continuous learning and flexibility.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the aerospace industry, senior spacecraft engineers, project managers, and executives can earn $400,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require specialized skills, certifications, and years of experience in spacecraft design, development, or management.

What are spacecraft?

Spacecraft are vehicles or machines designed to travel in outer space. They can be crewed or uncrewed and are used for a variety of purposes, such as exploration, communication, Earth observation, and scientific research. Spacecraft can operate in Earth's orbit, travel to other planets, or journey beyond our solar system. They play a crucial role in expanding our understanding of space and supporting modern technologies like GPS, weather forecasting, and satellite television.
More about Spacecraft jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft job openings:
What states have the most Spacecraft jobs? States with the most job openings for Spacecraft jobs include:
Infographic showing various Spacecraft job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
Spacecraft Thermal Engineer (Early Career) - Millennium Space Systems

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer (Early Career) - Millennium Space Systems

Boeing

El Segundo, CA

$63K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 586 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer (Early Career) - Millennium Space Systems

Company:

Millennium Space Systems

Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS), is a fast, agile small satellite company focused on national security space. Our missions have direct impact to global security, like missile warning and Earth observation.

Our team is curious, bold and innovative. We take risks, innovate and explore new techniques and technologies. We influence change because we challenge the status quo. And when we watch our satellites launch, we know each one of us made it happen.

JobSummary:

Thermal Engineers supportthe Spacecraft Development Program Managers and Chief Systems Engineer through the developmentof all spacecraft thermal system configurations, designs, analyses, testing, and flight operations. Spacecraft thermal subsystem elements includes all passive and active means of controlling the satellite's system, subsystem, and component environments within both operating and survival limits during all pertinent system lifetime activities.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Performspacecraft thermal design and analyses at the board, component, subsystem, and system level

  • Developsystems and spacecraft element thermal models to predict thermal loads, impacts, and temperature margins to support system design

  • Brief design and analysis materials to program managers, customers, and/or sponsors

  • Identifyall materials, processes, and facilities to achieve a qualified spacecraft thermal design and operation

  • Supportthermal verification testing on spacecraft systems and components including test design, test conduct, data reduction, analysis, and reporting

  • Assist in proposal and business development efforts

This position's internal job isMech Sys Design & Anlys Engr. Our team is currently hiring for a Level1-2.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or otherrelevant fields

  • 1 or moreyears of experience in the design, development, analysis, implementation, testing, and/or operation of spacecraft thermal systemsor other related complex thermal systems

  • 1 or more years of experience with thermal analysis tools (e.g. Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, Thermica)

  • This position requires the ability to obtain a US Security Clearance for which the US Government requires US Citizenship.A final U.S. clearance Post Start is required


Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.


Drug Free Workplace:

Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.


Total Rewards:

At Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

Millennium Space Systems also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary pay range:

Level 1: $63,000 - $113,000

Level 2: $75,000 - $ 134,000

Millennium is DDTC-registered, ITAR-compliant Company. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens and eligible for a security clearance. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified.

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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