Satellite Payload Engineer

Job Description

Description

SAIC is seeking a Satellite Payload Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program supporting the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.

As a Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in satellite payload architecture, SAR payload development, SAR processing and image formation, and end‑to‑end image chain performance. You will apply hands‑on satellite hardware experience and radar payload system knowledge to assess performance, resolve issues, and ensure seamless integration across space and ground segments. You will also drive enterprise‑level trade studies to define and refine requirements for future satellite capabilities, supporting mission success across the full lifecycle.

Job Responsibilities to include.

* Evaluate satellite payload requirements compliance by working with the Prime contractor to analyze evidence, assess technical adequacy, and drive closure of open issues.

* Review test plans and results to evaluate payload performance at the unit, subsystem, and system levels, including SAR and radar payload components.

* Perform detailed analysis of SAR processing chains, image formation algorithms, calibration/validation data, and payload‑to‑ground data flow.

* Assist with understanding and resolving anomalies, performing root cause analysis, and identifying corrective actions, including evaluating technical and schedule impacts.

* Identify and assess emerging technical and programmatic risks at the enterprise, system, and subsystem levels, and collaborate with Prime and Subcontractor teams to develop and evaluate mitigation strategies.

* Build and maintain productive relationships with Prime and Subcontractor counterparts, functional teams, and subject matter experts to ensure effective collaboration.

* Evaluate entrance and exit criteria for major program reviews, such as Pre‑Ship Reviews.

* Support trade studies to define and further develop requirements for future satellite systems, including next‑generation SAR and radar payload capabilities.

Qualifications

Required

Education and Experience

* Bachelor's degree and fourteen (14) or more years of relevant experience;
Master's degree and twelve (12) or more years;
PhD or JD and nine (9) or more years.

* Active TS/SCI with polygraph required.

* SAR Payload Development - experience supporting the design, development, integration, verification, or performance assessment of SAR payloads.

* SAR Processing & Image Formation - strong understanding of SAR algorithms, image formation techniques, calibration/validation processes, and mission data processing chains.

* Satellite Hardware- hands‑on experience with payload hardware, test equipment, unit‑ or subsystem‑level integration, environmental testing, or hardware troubleshooting.

* Radar Payload Systems - experience in radar payload architectures, RF chains, waveform design, performance modeling, and radar‑to‑ground data interfaces.

* Strong interpersonal, leadership, team-building, and analytical problem‑solving skills, with demonstrated effectiveness in a government/contractor environment.

Overview

SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.

SAIC is a premier Fortune 500 mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, civilian, and intelligence markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit  For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.