> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/176307-payload-systems-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/176307-payload-systems-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Payload Systems Engineer - **Company:** The Aerospace Corporation - **Location:** Albemarle County, VA, United States (Remote available) - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $117,300.0 - $226,900.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Beamforming, C++ (Programming Language), Signals Intelligence, Expert Systems, Python (Programming Language), Link Analysis, MATLAB, Systems Development Life Cycle, Signal Processing, Systems Architecture, VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL), Data Processing - **Published:** May 29, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=e543534c719383ad ## About the Role Do you have experience in Verification (System development task)?, Minimum Requirements for Project Engineer - Systems Engineering - Acquisition and Systems Engineering * A minimum of a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, or related technical field * 8 or more years of progressively more responsible experience * Experience integrating RF and Digital payloads with spacecraft bus systems (power, thermal, data handling) * Knowledge of RF/microwave payload architectures including receivers, downconverters, and signal processing chains * Experience with RF and Digital payload calibration, characterization, and performance verification testing * Demonstrated ability in formulating plans, leading studies, and utilizing internal technology competency organizations * Ability to communicate technical information to audiences with wide-ranging backgrounds * Ability to think independently, identify problems, and develop solutions with minimal to no management direction * Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills * Willingness to travel approximately 10% of time * This position requires a current and active TS/SSBI/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. In addition to the above , Sr. Project Engineer - Systems Engineering - Acquisition and Systems Engineering requires: * 12 years engineering experience working with space borne RF and Digital payload systems * Strong communication skills with experience coordinating/leading exchanges between Aerospace and Contractor Subject Matter Experts as well as briefing Senior Customer program leadership, * Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or related discipline * Previous experience in NRO satellite acquisitions or operations * Understanding of how RF microwave subsystems interface and transitions to Digital subsystems * Understanding of digital signal processing (DSP) for SIGINT applications including channelization, filtering, and beamforming * Knowledge of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) analysis for space-based systems * Previous experience in the development and operation of prototype space vehicles or payloads * Specific experience in the following: + Signal Detection and Estimation + Electromagnetic Signal Propagation + Link Analysis + Sensitivity Analysis * Proficiency with any of the following: MATLAB, C/C++, Python, VHDL * Experience working across the NRO Enterprise * Strong ability to build relationships and enhance partnerships ## Description * Provide expert systems engineering and mission integration support to a challenging National program * Provide subject matter expertise in the area of payload acquisitions and integration * Develop technical solutions that improve Mission Assurance practices within the National SIGINT enterprise through the application of proven scientific, engineering, quality, and program management principles toward the goal of achieving mission success * Conduct studies and analyses that support technical and programmatic decision-making * Assessing mission trades between segments and products for system-level design reviews to help identify optimal systems architecture designs * Working side by side with the Customer, Aerospace and SETAs in a dynamic space system acquisition environment collocated in a USG facility * Be an individual contributor of a multi-disciplined team with a common and shared vision * Proactively seek out areas of program risks while developing mitigations * Collaborate and communicate frequently with SETA, industry contractors, mid-level and senior Government officials * Provide matrixed technical support to other next-generation SIGINT acquisition activities, as needed ## Related Videos - [Robots are coming into the wild! Full-Stack Robotics Engineers, be ready!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/479-robots-are-coming-into-the-wild-full-stack-robotics-engineers-be-ready) - [How E.On productionizes its AI model & Implementation of Secure Generative AI.](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/623-how-e-on-productionizes-its-ai-model-implementation-of-secure-generative-ai) - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [Crew Management System for Airlines: Plan duties for pilots & flight attendants worldwide](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1444-crew-management-system-for-airlines-plan-duties-for-pilots-flight-attendants-worldwide) - [Debugging in the Dark](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1658-debugging-in-the-dark) - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [Quick guide: How to write a Software Developer CV](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/37-quick-guide-how-to-write-a-software-developer-cv) - [Dev Digest 134 - Where pixels sing?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/477-dev-digest-134-where-pixels-sing) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know)