Systems Engineer, Space
L3HARRIS Technologies
San Diego, CA · Posted October 14, 2026
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November 2026
- #1Cities hosting the most business conferences in the West Coast78 conferences · of 17
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Pay compared with the market
This listing does not state pay. Across 207 open systems engineer listings that state pay, the middle half runs $104,000 to $160,500 and the median is $120,000.
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About the job
Job Title: Specialist, Space Systems Engineer
Job Code: 46101
Job Location: San Diego, CA
Job Schedule: 9/80 (employee's work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off)
Job Description:
The Space Systems Engineer is responsible for technical leadership, requirement management and test verification and performance of established and developing space communication systems. The role collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware and software engineers, to ensure end product achieves all technical requirements and meets the needs of the end user. A strong background in design, development and verification of RF communication systems is essential. The Space Systems Engineer leverages L3Harris's expertise and capabilities, exploring ways to apply our advanced solutions to new challenges. This position may require travel up to 10% of the time, enabling engagement directly with stakeholders and support various project needs on-site.
Essential Functions:
Project Leadership:
Lead multi-disciplinary engineering teams through the entire systems engineering lifecycle, from concept development to system deployment and maintenance.
Integration and Verification:
Oversee the integration of various system components and ensure they work together seamlessly. Plan and conduct system verification and validation activities to ensure the system meets all required performance and reliability standards.
Risk Management:
Identify potential risks throughout the system's lifecycle and develop mitigation strategies to address these risks effectively.
Customer and Stakeholder Interaction:
Engage with customers and other stakeholders to understand their needs and ensure their requirements are incorporated into the system design. Communicate project status and technical information effectively.
Innovation and Problem Solving:
Lead efforts to innovate and improve existing system designs. Resolve complex technical issues that arise during the design, development, or deployment phases.
Performance Analysis:
Conduct performance analysis and modeling to predict and verify system behavior under various conditions.
Collaboration and Coordination:
Coordinate with other engineering disciplines, including hardware, software, and mechanical engineers, to ensure integrated system solutions.
Ability to obtain a DoD Clearance
Qualifications:
BS degree in a technical field (Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Material Science or equivalent) with a minimum of 4 years of related work experience, Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 8 years of prior related experience.
Preferred Additional Skills:
Advanced degrees (Masters or PhD) in a related field may be substituted for some work experience.
Proven experience in RF and Communication System Design
Experience with SDR (Software Defined Radio) design and development
Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external customers is strongly emphasized
Must demonstrate a willingness to learn and work in both a support capacity and as a lead on differing functions.
Computer proficiency with knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.)
Strong time management capable of balancing multiple tasks and projects
Experience with project planning and proposal activities
Experience preparing presentation materials, documentation, and presenting technical designs
Ability to obtain Top Secret clearance, which requires an extensive background investigation.
Experience with SDR (Software Defined Radio) design and developmentAbility to communicate effectively with internal and external customers is strongly emphasizedMust demonstrate a willingness to learn and work in both a support capacity and as a lead on differing functions.Experience with SDR (Software Defined Radio) design and development
Expertise in Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) tools like Cameo or SysML
An active Top Secret or TS/SCI DoD clearance
#LI-CS3
In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, and the Greater D.C, Denver, or NYC areas is $92,500 - $171,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.