Payload Operations Systems Engineer
CACI International· Defense· Sep 30, 2026 · 28d ago
Danbury, CT, US
In office
Full-time
Mid
$79K–$163K
2+ years exp
Job description
Job Title: Payload Operations Systems Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: TS/SCI
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 25%
Type of Travel: Continental US
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The Opportunity:
CACI is seeking a Payload Operations Systems Engineer to support a critical National Security Program. The successful candidate will join a high-performing team of government and contractor professionals supporting continuous operations in a fast-paced environment focused on advancing the customer’s space warfighting mission.
As a Payload Operations Systems Engineer, the candidate will provide integrated assessment and tracking of ongoing operations to assist the government and partner operations team. This role demands close coordination with internal and external stakeholders, along with routine development of mission-focused analysis and operational communication.
Our team is cohesive, collaborative, and mission focused. We are regularly tasked with developing operational solutions for unique and unprecedented mission objectives. Operators will train on, operate, and refine processes for advanced tools while also supporting requirements development for future capabilities.
We are looking for an individual who proactively identifies issues, proposes innovative solutions, and helps implement continuous improvements. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic and evolving operational environment, demonstrates exceptional initiative, exhibits excellent communication skills, maintains composure under pressure, and is motivated to grow into leadership or specialized roles within the program.
This position supports 24x7 operations and requires on-call work.
Responsibilities:
Draft and disseminate Operations Reports
Report on any significant events to both internal and external stakeholders
Track mission activities and operational developments using advanced monitoring tools
Summarize and relay updates to government customers in real time
Provide support to real-world application exercises
Develop and utilize simulation and image analysis tools to analyze satellite operations and predict system behavior
Provide critical assistance during satellite launch and early orbit operations
Address any challenges or risks impacting mission success
Provide detailed inputs for monthly reports
Support onboarding of new and enhanced tools
Qualifications:
Required:
Must have Active Top Secret/SCI clearance
Bachelor’s degree and minimum 2 years of prior relevant experience working on satellite systems
Ability to concisely and accurately summarize mission operations and significant events
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
Aptitude to proactively identify issues and lead problem-solving
Desired:
Active Top Secret/SCI with CI Poly
EO/IR sensor competency
Mission planning experience
SocetGXP or ENVI expertise
Ability to work in a cross-functional environment
MATLAB literacy
Root cause analysis and nonconformance tracking
Proven experience delivering daily stand-up operational briefings to senior stakeholders and mission partners
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What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose – to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation s most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground — in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range :
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$79,400 - $162,700
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.
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