Engineering the Future: Join the US Space Force as a Ground & Payload Engineer

Are you an expert in Radio Frequency (RF) engineering with a passion for orbital systems? The United States Space Force (USSF) is currently seeking a highly motivated Ground & Payload Engineer (NH-0855-03) to join the 53rd Space Operations Squadron (SOPS) at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado. This role represents a pivotal opportunity to influence the next generation of military satellite communications and ensure our nation maintains its edge in space.

Job Responsibilities

As a lead engineer, your day-to-day operations will involve:

Test and Evaluation: Guiding complex on-orbit and ground-segment test campaigns.
System Modeling: Performing high-fidelity link modeling and evaluating user terminals and modems.
Anomaly Resolution: Investigating and solving complex RF anomalies.
Technical Leadership: Mentoring junior team members and presenting findings to defense acquisition leadership.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Hold a Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Electronics, or Aerospace Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
Possess strong proficiency in RF concepts and principles.
Be eligible for and successfully obtain an SCI security clearance.
Adhere to strict resume documentation standards.

Comparison of Education Levels

Education Level	Recommended Focus	Impact on Qualifications
Bachelor of Science	Electrical/Aerospace Engineering	Required Minimum
Master of Science	RF/Microwave Systems	Highly Preferred
PhD	Satellite Communications	Highly Preferred

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive compensation package ranging from $91,870 to $142,022 per year, commensurate with your experience and technical qualifications.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides robust benefits, including:

Comprehensive health insurance and dental/vision plans.
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
Flexible work arrangements and telework options.
Paid time off, including sick and annual leave.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Do not exceed two pages for your resume. Use a font size of at least 10 pts.
Clarity: Ensure your resume clearly maps your experience to RF engineering and satellite link analysis.
Verification: Use the USAJOBS portal to ensure your uploaded documents have successfully passed the virus scan.

This role is an ideal match for an expert engineer who wants to see their technical work manifest in tangible national security effects. If you are ready to advance military space standards and work at the forefront of RF technology, we encourage you to submit your application for the Ground & Payload Engineer position today.

Why This Ground & Payload Engineer, 53 Sops Job Matters

Propel your engineering career into the final frontier: join the 53rd Space Operations Squadron as a Ground & Payload Engineer and shape the future of military satellite communications.

Ground & Payload Engineer, 53 Sops Job Overview

The United States Space Force (USSF) is seeking a highly skilled Ground & Payload Engineer to join the 53rd Space Operations Squadron at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado. This high-impact role focuses on the testing, evaluation, and evolution of critical satellite communication (SATCOM) systems. You will serve as a lead technical expert, ensuring that our next-generation military space assets meet rigorous operational standards. This is a Direct Hire position offering the opportunity to influence defense acquisition programs and resolve complex engineering anomalies at the intersection of ground and orbital segments.

Requirements for Ground & Payload Engineer, 53 Sops

U.S. Citizenship.
Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Aerospace Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
Extensive experience in RF link engineering and satellite systems.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
Willingness to undergo a mandatory drug test.
Submit a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit and font size requirements.
Capable of working in a Critical-Sensitive (CS) position.

Preferred Qualifications for Ground & Payload Engineer, 53 Sops

Master of Science or PhD in RF/Microwave Systems or Satellite Communications.
Formalized technical training in satellite link budget analysis and RF instrumentation.
Proven track record of leading on-orbit and ground-segment test and evaluation campaigns.
Expertise in authoring rigorous, evidence-based technical reports for defense acquisition programs.
Advanced experience in high-fidelity link modeling and evaluation of user terminals.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Generous federal retirement programs, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
✓Telework eligibility as permitted by position requirements.
✓Support for service-connected disability leave for qualifying veterans.

💡 How to Apply Ground & Payload Engineer, 53 Sops Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Ground & Payload Engineer, 53 Sops Job

Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages and follows the formatting guidelines outlined in the job announcement.
Ensure your resume includes comprehensive work history, education, and supervisor contact information.
Log in to your USAJOBS account to submit your application package before the closing date.
Verify that all documents are uploaded and processed by checking your application status in the USAJOBS portal.
Monitor your email and telephone for interview invitations from the USSF hiring team.

💡 General Tips

Strictly follow the page limit for your resume; applications exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
Ensure you clearly document your specific experience with RF link modeling and test programs.
Avoid including sensitive personal data like SSN, religion, or age on your resume.
Use the USAJOBS verification feature to confirm your documents have cleared the virus scan after uploading.
Review the OPM General Schedule Qualification Standards for the 0855 series prior to applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of this role?

You will serve as a lead technical expert for the 53rd SOPS, overseeing RF test campaigns, modeling satellite links, and resolving engineering anomalies for military space systems.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is telework-eligible, subject to squadron policies and operational requirements.

What security clearance is required?

This role requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance and is classified as Critical-Sensitive/High Risk.

What is the hiring path for this job?

*A: This position is open to the public under a Direct Hire authority.*

Are there relocation benefits?

*A: Relocation expenses are not currently authorized for this position.*

Job from United States Space Force Forces

The United States Space Force is the newest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, dedicated to protecting the interests of the United States in space. The 53rd Space Operations Squadron operates within the Combat Forces Command, providing critical satellite support and testing. Working here means collaborating with elite engineers to solve the most difficult technical puzzles in the defense sector.