Ground Systems Engineer Jobs in California
Ground Systems Engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in aerospace, defense, and space systems across the Los Angeles basin, the San Diego corridor, and the Sacramento region. Major employers with deep, lasting roots in California include Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, all of which maintain large ground systems teams. The most in-demand specialties are satellite command and control, launch infrastructure, and mission operations software integration. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 28+ Ground Systems Engineer jobs
At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.
Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS), is a fast, agile small satellite company focused on national security space. Our missions have direct impact to global security, like missile warning and Earth observation.
Our team is curious, bold and innovative. We take risks, innovate and explore new techniques and technologies. We influence change because we challenge the status quo. And when we watch our satellites launch, we know each one of us made it happen.
As a Manufacturing Engineer - EGSE (Electrical Ground Support Equipment), you will be responsible for developing, qualifying, and implementing manufacturing processes and procedures to build, test and launch satellites, related subsystems, and components.
This position's internal job code is Manufacturing Engineer. Our team is currently hiring for levels 1 and 2.
Position Responsibilities:
Serve as the technical subject matter expert for manufacturing of EGSE (including but not limited to: test racks, harnesses, and related assemblies)
Author work instructions for all Manufacturing Test Systems and their related sub-assemblies
Troubleshoot, identify root cause, and drive implementation of corrective actions for test system related non-conformances
Conduct DFM reviews for harnessing and ground support equipment and provide valuable feedback to the design team
Collaborate with Quality (Engineering & Inspection) to verify that both new and current processes meet compliance requirements
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), computer science, engineering data science, mathematics, physics, or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor), or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience or non-US equivalent qualifications.
0-2 years in a manufacturing environment
Experience authoring procedures, processes, and managing non-conformances
Relies on data and metrics to make well-informed decisions on behalf of Manufacturing
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. A U.S. Security Clearance Post-Start is required
Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
Involvement in the design and/or fabrication of test systems (ASME Y14.5)
Experience in a high-throughput manufacturing environment
Knowledge of test instrumentation (i.e. thermocouples, DMMs, DAQs, E-Loads, etc.)
Experience in the fabrication and assembly of harnesses (IPC/WHMA-A-620)
Demonstrated ability to identify and drive process improvements
Experience with dispositioning and ownership of non-conformances
Familiarity with various MES & ERP systems
Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company’s Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process
Drug Free Workplace:
Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Total Rewards:
At Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Millennium Space Systems also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary pay range:
Level 1: $76,500 - $112,500
Level 2: $90,950 - $133,750
Millennium is DDTC-registered, ITAR-compliant Company. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens and eligible for a security clearance. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified.
Category = Engineering
Applications for this position will be accepted until Sept. 07, 2026
Export Control Requirements:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Export Control Details:
US based job, US Person required
Education
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Required
Relocation
Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
Security Clearance
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Top Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Shift
This position is for 1st shift
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
Your Benefits
No matter where you are in life, our benefits help prepare you for the present and the future.
- Generous company match to your 401(k).
- Industry-leading tuition assistance program pays your institution directly.
- Fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits.
- Up to $10,000 gift match when you support your favorite nonprofit organizations.
These programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other conditions, which may differ for employees of certain subsidiaries or business units, or union-represented employees depending on bargaining agreement terms. If this information conflicts with the program documents, the latter shall control. This material is informational only.
At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.
Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS), is a fast, agile small satellite company focused on national security space. Our missions have direct impact to global security, like missile warning and Earth observation.
Our team is curious, bold and innovative. We take risks, innovate and explore new techniques and technologies. We influence change because we challenge the status quo. And when we watch our satellites launch, we know each one of us made it happen.
As a Manufacturing Engineer - EGSE (Electrical Ground Support Equipment), you will be responsible for developing, qualifying, and implementing manufacturing processes and procedures to build, test and launch satellites, related subsystems, and components.
This position's internal job code is Manufacturing Engineer. Our team is currently hiring for levels 1 and 2.
Position Responsibilities:
Serve as the technical subject matter expert for manufacturing of EGSE (including but not limited to: test racks, harnesses, and related assemblies)
Author work instructions for all Manufacturing Test Systems and their related sub-assemblies
Troubleshoot, identify root cause, and drive implementation of corrective actions for test system related non-conformances
Conduct DFM reviews for harnessing and ground support equipment and provide valuable feedback to the design team
Collaborate with Quality (Engineering & Inspection) to verify that both new and current processes meet compliance requirements
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), computer science, engineering data science, mathematics, physics, or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor), or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience or non-US equivalent qualifications.
0-2 years in a manufacturing environment
Experience authoring procedures, processes, and managing non-conformances
Relies on data and metrics to make well-informed decisions on behalf of Manufacturing
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. A U.S. Security Clearance Post-Start is required
Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
Involvement in the design and/or fabrication of test systems (ASME Y14.5)
Experience in a high-throughput manufacturing environment
Knowledge of test instrumentation (i.e. thermocouples, DMMs, DAQs, E-Loads, etc.)
Experience in the fabrication and assembly of harnesses (IPC/WHMA-A-620)
Demonstrated ability to identify and drive process improvements
Experience with dispositioning and ownership of non-conformances
Familiarity with various MES & ERP systems
Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company’s Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process
Drug Free Workplace:
Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Total Rewards:
At Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Millennium Space Systems also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary pay range:
Level 1: $76,500 - $112,500
Level 2: $90,950 - $133,750
Millennium is DDTC-registered, ITAR-compliant Company. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens and eligible for a security clearance. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified.
Category = Engineering
Applications for this position will be accepted until Sept. 07, 2026
Export Control Requirements:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Export Control Details:
US based job, US Person required
Education
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Required
Relocation
Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
Security Clearance
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Top Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Shift
This position is for 1st shift
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
Your Benefits
No matter where you are in life, our benefits help prepare you for the present and the future.
- Generous company match to your 401(k).
- Industry-leading tuition assistance program pays your institution directly.
- Fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits.
- Up to $10,000 gift match when you support your favorite nonprofit organizations.
These programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other conditions, which may differ for employees of certain subsidiaries or business units, or union-represented employees depending on bargaining agreement terms. If this information conflicts with the program documents, the latter shall control. This material is informational only.
See All 28 Ground Systems Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Ground Systems Engineer JobsGround Systems Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Ground Systems Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Aerospace & Defense
- Consulting & Professional Services
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in ground systems engineer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering from an accredited program
- Active U.S. security clearance or eligibility to obtain one required by most California defense employers
- Experience with ground support equipment, command and control systems, or mission operations software
- Proficiency in systems engineering lifecycle tools such as DOORS, MATLAB, or STK
- Familiarity with interface control documents, verification and validation planning, and test procedures
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional integration teams
Ground Systems Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a ground systems engineer in California?
A bachelor's degree in aerospace, electrical, systems, or computer engineering is the standard starting point for ground systems engineer roles in California. The state does not require a specific license to work as a ground systems engineer, but many California defense and space employers require candidates to hold or qualify for a federal security clearance. A Professional Engineer license issued through the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists can strengthen a profile for senior roles.
Which companies hire ground systems engineers in California?
California ground systems engineer roles are posted by Boeing, KBR, and MTSI and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. California's concentration of defense primes, national laboratories, and commercial space companies makes it one of the deepest markets in the country for this role.
Which California cities have the most ground systems engineer jobs?
El Segundo, Los Angeles, and Berkeley account for the most ground systems engineer openings in California. The Los Angeles area anchors the market through its dense cluster of aerospace and defense contractors, while San Diego draws heavily from Navy and Marine Corps program offices and their supporting industry base, and Sacramento-area openings are driven by intelligence community and Air Force installations in the region.
Are there remote ground systems engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Ground systems engineering is a hands-on discipline that frequently requires physical access to hardware, test facilities, and secure government sites, which limits remote work. About 18% of ground systems engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those that are tend to involve mission planning software, documentation, or systems architecture work rather than lab or range operations.
How can I get hired as a ground systems engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a new-graduate engineering role or rotational program at a major California defense employer. Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin all run structured new-grad and early-career programs out of their Southern California sites. Adjacent roles such as systems test technician, mission operations analyst, or satellite operations specialist are common lateral moves. Completing an internship at JPL, Aerospace Corporation, or a California Air Force base contractor and building familiarity with STK or MATLAB gives candidates a concrete edge.
Where can I find and apply to ground systems engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to ground systems engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly.
See All 28 Ground Systems Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Ground Systems Engineer Jobs