What Is a Spacecraft Systems Engineer?

A Spacecraft Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, integrating, and overseeing the performance of all major subsystems on a spacecraft. Instead of focusing on one component (like propulsion or avionics), systems engineers ensure every subsystem works together as one safe, reliable, mission-ready vehicle. They guide spacecraft from concept and design through testing, launch, and on-orbit operations.

Their responsibilities include:

• Defining system-level requirements and mission objectives

• Coordinating across propulsion, avionics, structures, thermal, power, and communications teams

• Managing spacecraft architecture and interface control documents (ICDs)

• Leading design reviews (PDR, CDR, FRR)

• Supporting integration, testing, and environmental qualification

• Troubleshooting anomalies during ground tests or on-orbit operations

• Ensuring safety, reliability, and redundancy in all critical systems

• Working closely with Mission Control during launch and early orbit operations

Spacecraft Systems Engineers work at NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Boeing Space, ULA, Rocket Lab, and Space Force operations. This role requires strong technical knowledge, coordination ability, and a deep understanding of how all space systems interact.

How to Start Your Journey as a Spacecraft Systems Engineer

1. Meet basic eligibility requirements

Most positions require:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a technical field

• Strong analytical and math skills

• Ability to communicate across multi-disciplinary teams

• Eligibility for security clearance (for defense projects)

2. Choose a degree pathway

Common degrees include:

• Aerospace Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Systems Engineering

• Physics

• Computer Engineering

• Space Operations (with engineering track)

A master’s degree is beneficial but not required for entry-level roles.

3. Build core technical foundations

Focus your coursework on:

• Orbital mechanics

• Spacecraft design

• Flight dynamics and controls

• Thermal analysis

• Propulsion systems

• Power systems

• Avionics and communications

• Systems engineering processes

• Modeling & simulation tools

4. Join hands-on engineering teams

Highly recommended experience includes:

• CubeSat or small satellite design teams

• Rocket or propulsion teams

• Space systems research labs

• Ground station or mission control student groups

• High-altitude balloon programs

• AIAA or SEDS project teams

Practical experience is a major hiring factor.

5. Get internships in the space industry

Internships at NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Lockheed, or university labs build essential skills in:

• Integration & testing

• Subsystem analysis

• Mission design

• Simulation and modeling

• Spacecraft operations

6. Apply to entry-level systems roles

Starting positions include:

• Associate Systems Engineer

• Spacecraft Integration Engineer

• Test Engineer

• Mission Operations Engineer

• GNC or Avionics Systems Analyst

Career Pathways Within Spacecraft Systems Engineering

Spacecraft Integration Engineer

Focuses on mechanical and electrical integration of spacecraft components.

Responsibilities include:

• Assembling spacecraft structures and subsystems

• Ensuring mechanical and electrical interfaces match design requirements

• Supporting fit checks and functional testing

• Working hands-on in cleanroom environments

Flight Systems Engineer

Responsible for spacecraft configuration during the mission.

Responsibilities include:

• Monitoring subsystem performance

• Writing flight rules and contingency procedures

• Supporting launch, commissioning, and on-orbit ops

• Coordinating with mission control teams

Thermal & Power Systems Engineer

Ensures spacecraft can survive and operate in extreme space environments.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing radiators, insulation, heaters, and thermal hardware

• Managing solar arrays, batteries, and power distribution

• Running thermal vacuum (TVAC) tests

• Supporting mission planning for eclipse seasons

Avionics & Communications Systems Engineer

Focuses on electronics, communications links, and onboard computers.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing command & telemetry systems

• Integrating flight computers and sensors

• Ensuring reliable communication with ground stations

• Supporting software and firmware testing

Propulsion & Attitude Control Systems Engineer

Works on systems that maintain spacecraft stability and maneuverability.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing propulsion architectures

• Modeling trajectories and burns

• Analyzing thruster performance and fuel budgets

• Working closely with orbit analysts

Mission Systems & Requirements Engineer

Ensures the entire mission meets performance, safety, and reliability goals.

Responsibilities include:

• Writing mission requirements

• Tracking verification & validation (V&V)

• Running risk assessments and FMEA analyses

• Leading design and readiness reviews

Top Schools for Spacecraft Systems Engineering and How to Get Involved

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach & Prescott)

Strong space systems, satellite engineering, and mission operations programs with CubeSat teams and ties to NASA.

• University of Colorado Boulder

One of the top schools for space systems engineering, satellite design, and mission operations.

• Georgia Institute of Technology

Elite aerospace program with strengths in GNC, spacecraft design, and deep-space missions.

• Purdue University

Known for propulsion, astronautics, and spacecraft engineering programs.

• MIT

Leader in spacecraft systems, robotics, and space science.

• Caltech / JPL Partnership

Highly advanced research environment for interplanetary missions and robotics.

• University of Michigan

Strong in plasma propulsion, controls, and satellite design.

Trends & Opportunities in Spacecraft Systems Engineering

• Rapid growth in commercial space companies and launch providers

• Expansion of mega-constellations (Starlink, Kuiper, OneWeb) creating massive demand

• Increased focus on autonomous space systems and AI-driven operations

• Growth in lunar missions, Artemis program, and deep-space exploration

• Rising demand for spacecraft resilience and cybersecurity

• Reusable spacecraft and rapid manufacturing increasing innovation cycles

• Satellite servicing, refueling, and in-orbit repair becoming emerging fields

Final Thoughts

Spacecraft Systems Engineers play one of the most critical roles in the space industry. By overseeing the integration of propulsion, power, thermal, avionics, structures, and communication systems, they ensure that spacecraft succeed from design to launch to on-orbit operations. For students who want to work on real missions, solve complex engineering problems, and push the limits of space technology, this career offers an exciting and high-impact pathway into the future of space exploration.