Space Systems Engineer Jobs

Explore Space Systems Engineer opportunities with organizations developing spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, and other mission-critical technologies. These roles bring together engineering disciplines to define, integrate, test, and operate complex systems for commercial, civil, and national security missions. Ladders features vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more, helping experienced engineers find opportunities aligned with their skills and career goals.

What Does a Space Systems Engineer Do?

Space Systems Engineers guide a mission or product from early requirements through design, integration, verification, and operations. They translate mission objectives into technical requirements, coordinate interfaces across hardware and software teams, evaluate system-level risks, and help ensure that components work together reliably in demanding environments.

Common Responsibilities and Specialties

Responsibilities vary by employer and program, but may include requirements management, architecture development, trade studies, interface control, modeling and simulation, integration and test planning, verification, and technical coordination. Related specialties include spacecraft systems, satellite communications, avionics, guidance, navigation and control, payloads, launch systems, ground systems, and mission operations.

Skills and Qualifications

Employers commonly seek a degree in aerospace, electrical, mechanical, systems, or a related engineering field, along with experience on complex technical programs. Useful skills include systems engineering methods, requirements and configuration management, risk analysis, technical documentation, and cross-functional communication. Depending on the role, familiarity with standards, modeling tools, hardware and software integration, or security clearance requirements may also be important.

Space Systems Engineer Salary and Career Outlook

Compensation depends on experience, location, employer, mission area, and the scope of the role. Senior and specialized positions can offer strong earning potential, particularly for engineers with a record of delivering complex programs. Browse Ladders for vetted Space Systems Engineer jobs paying $100,000 or more, and compare roles by responsibilities, qualifications, and career opportunity.

Find Space Systems Engineer Jobs on Ladders

Whether your background is in spacecraft design, satellite programs, launch vehicles, or mission integration, Ladders can help you discover high-paying professional opportunities. Review current openings and find a role where your systems expertise can contribute to the next generation of space missions.

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$58K - $108K *

Join our team to perform system-level testing and integration for advanced avionics on F-16 and T/FA-50 platforms. Collaborate with engineers to develop test procedures and troubleshoot in lab and fli...

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$95K - $115K *

Lead the charge in systems engineering for a Missile Defense Agency program, focusing on software architecture and design, team coordination, and innovative technology solutions across multi-disciplin...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$107K - $204K *

Join a dynamic team as you design and integrate cutting-edge avionics computing systems. Collaborate across disciplines to translate requirements into architecture, ensuring performance and compliance...

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$110K - $130K *

Lead the design and operation of test infrastructure for jet engine systems, ensuring rigorous testing and quality assurance. Collaborate with engineers to enhance capabilities and validate performanc...

1 week ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$120K - $224K *

Transform the future of aerospace by designing and validating advanced algorithms for guidance, navigation, and control systems. Collaborate with a skilled team to enhance missile and spacecraft perfo...

Yesterday

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$135K - $216K *

Optimize complex systems engineering initiatives for geospatial intelligence. Lead multidisciplinary teams, advise stakeholders, and ensure interoperability across government and mission partner envir...

2 weeks ago

  •   15+ years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Champion strategic weapon system testing for the COLUMBIA submarine. Lead safety protocols, data evaluation, and cross-department coordination. Ensure efficient test execution while adhering to string...

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Manufacturing & Automotive

$95K - $115K *

Join us to design and implement advanced GNC algorithms for aerospace vehicles, collaborating across teams to enhance control systems throughout the program lifecycle. Bring your expertise in modeling...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$135K - $216K *

Elevate your career by leading complex systems engineering initiatives in geospatial intelligence. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop, integrate, and optimize solutions that enhance m...

2 weeks ago

  •   15+ years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$145K - $175K *

Empower your career by leading the design and implementation of advanced navigation systems for spacecraft. Collaborate with a dynamic team to ensure mission success through innovative algorithms and...

3 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$110K - $130K *

Develop and enhance control software for complex power conversion systems. This hands-on role requires model-based control software expertise and collaboration across engineering teams to ensure relia...

Reposted 3 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Energy & Utilities

$80K - $100K *

Empower the future of naval operations by ensuring accurate AutoCAD drawings for shore installations. Collaborate with experts to enhance C4I capabilities, supporting seamless communication between ta...

2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$114K - $171K *

Transform complex software integration and testing processes by leading cross-functional teams, ensuring seamless collaboration, and driving best practices in a dynamic environment. Elevate system per...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$82K - $145K *

Take ownership of the entire spacecraft mission lifecycle, from design to on-orbit operations. Lead technical authority for spacecraft, ensuring operational excellence and innovation in high-pressure...

Reposted yesterday

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$120K - $145K *

Drive innovative solutions by leading a skilled engineering team in developing high-performance hardware systems. Oversee project schedules and costs while ensuring effective communication with stakeh...

3 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$80K - $95K *

Drive the design and analysis of avionics systems installations, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions and support ce...

2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Consumer Technology

$122K - $184K *

Empower the future of aerospace by managing environmental requirements for the Aerospace Vehicle Equipment segment. Collaborate with teams to ensure compliance and performance, while supporting critic...

Reposted 2 weeks ago

  •   5 - 7 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$98K - $133K *

Drive your engineering career through a dynamic rotational program, gaining hands-on experience in satellite systems while developing leadership skills across multiple technical areas over three years...

Reposted 1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$108K - $130K *

Join a team that's driving innovation in systems engineering and cybersecurity. Lead complex technical programs, manage Agile processes, and collaborate with diverse teams to enhance defense initiativ...

3 weeks ago

  •   15+ years exp.  •   Enterprise Technology

$98K - $160K *

Elevate your career by leading innovative control systems in a collaborative environment. You'll manage complex engineering challenges, mentor junior staff, and drive high-quality outcomes in aerospac...

Reposted 2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$98K - $160K *

Transform your career by leading a team in developing cutting-edge control systems. Guide engineers through complex challenges, enhance technical standards, and collaborate globally to ensure high-qua...

Reposted 2 weeks ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$130K *

Unlock your potential by providing senior aerospace engineering support for space systems acquisition and integration. Collaborate across multiple segments to enhance missile warning, tracking, and de...

2 weeks ago

  •   11 - 15 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$88K - $105K *

Elevate your career by joining a dynamic team focused on designing and delivering advanced systems for Submarine Warfare. Collaborate with experts to analyze requirements, manage integrations, and ens...

1 week ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

$108K - $130K *

Lead the design and maintenance of complex network systems, ensuring optimal performance and seamless operations. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement solutions and provide technical s...

2 days ago

  •   8 - 10 years exp.  •   Education, Government & Non-Profit

$58K - $108K *

Unlock potential by joining a dynamic Electrical Engineering team to support mission-critical communications and IT systems at launch sites. Engage in troubleshooting, project management, and maintena...

6 days ago

  •   Less than 5 years exp.  •   Aerospace & Defense

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is a Space Systems Engineer?question toggle

    A Space Systems Engineer coordinates the technical elements of a space mission or product, translating mission goals into requirements and helping teams design, integrate, verify, and operate systems such as spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, and ground systems.

  • What qualifications do Space Systems Engineer jobs typically require?question toggle

    Many roles require a bachelor's degree in aerospace, systems, electrical, mechanical, or a related engineering discipline, plus relevant experience with complex systems. Some positions may prefer an advanced degree or require specialized technical experience or a security clearance.

  • What skills are important for Space Systems Engineers?question toggle

    Commonly valued skills include requirements development, system architecture, interface management, risk analysis, integration and verification, modeling and simulation, technical writing, and the ability to coordinate across engineering disciplines.

  • How much do Space Systems Engineers earn?question toggle

    Pay varies with experience, location, employer, specialty, and program responsibility. Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more, including qualifying Space Systems Engineer opportunities.

  • Where can Space Systems Engineers work?question toggle

    They may work for aerospace and defense contractors, commercial space companies, satellite and communications providers, government agencies, research organizations, or companies building launch, spacecraft, payload, and ground systems.