Space Communications Payload Systems Engineer (Associate, Experienced, or Lead)

About the Position

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Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS), Space and Launch Division, seeks a Space Communications Payload Systems Engineer (Associate, Experienced, or Lead) (Level 2, 3, or 4) to join the Payload Systems Engineering team in El Segundo, California.

The Space Intelligence & Weapon Systems Team creates the next-generation products and services for the BDS business unit. We work with commercial, government, and proprietary customers in the development of the next-generation technologies in space. Our team focuses on rapid prototyping to demonstrate a host of mission-focused technologies for a variety of customers. Our group works all facets of engineering from technology investment, concept development, proposal writing, requirement development, design, build, integration, test, and demonstration of products in their relevant environments.

The Space Communications Payload Systems Engineer will be a part of a high-performing team that is immersed in high intensity development projects. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to design, develop, and deliver state-of-the-art communication systems for space-based applications for commercial, civil, and/or national security programs. This position will work with a highly motivated team that works with domestic or international customers on their latest satellite systems. This role’s assignments typically span the complete program life cycle, from internal trades, concept studies, and system definition, to satellite development, launch, and on-orbit operations and test.

Our team is currently hiring for a broad range of experience levels including associate, experienced, and lead level engineers.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop next generation RF (Radio Frequency), digital, and/or optical satellite communications systems and payload architectures
• Support trade studies and generate proposals
• Define and verify space communication unit, subsystem, and system requirements and interfaces
• Perform system-level CONOPS development, functional analysis, RF and Optical performance analysis, and decomposition
• Support system-level integration and validation
• Perform analyses and simulations for space communication systems, including: link analysis, signal distortion, system capacity, reliability, and performance
• Develop analysis tools using MATLAB and object-oriented software platforms
• Develop and verify system algorithms that meet functional and performance requirements
• Oversees the design and build of multiple satellite and avionics units from internal teams and external suppliers that meet defined requirements and interfaces
• Ensures satellite units follow proper test, validation, and qualification processes for space applications
• Perform hardware procurement, design reviews, and unit sell-off
• Perform system test preparation, execution, troubleshooting, and verification

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement
• Experience with communications subsystems or units
• Experience with digital payload design, analysis, development, and verification
• Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance

Nice to Have

• 5+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 9+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience with digital communications
• Experience working on satellite or space-based payloads
• Experience with satellite or terrestrial communications systems and antenna theory
• Experience with Matlab/Simulink and C++

We Offer

• Competitive salary range: $98,600 - $197,800
• Relocation based on candidate eligibility
• Generous company match to your 401(k)
• Industry-leading tuition assistance program pays your institution directly
• Fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
• Up to $10,000 gift match when you support your favorite nonprofit organizations

About the Company

Boeing is a Drug-Free Workplace 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.

This position is for 1st shift. This worksite participates in Boeing’s optional 9/80 schedule rotation. 9/80 is a rotation in which employees can work 9-hour shifts, 8 days per pay period (bi-weekly) and receive every other Friday off. This is subject to change based on business conditions.

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.

Apply Now

Applications for this position will be accepted until Oct. 02, 2026