Inside a NASA Contractor Job
Systems Engineer Salary & Artemis Missions
NASA Contractor Reveals the Systems Engineer Job: Salary, Artemis & What It Really Takes
$70K - $200K+
2/6/26
What you’ll learn in this episode:
How to break into aerospace engineering
What systems engineers actually do day to day
How much you can earn ($70K–$200K+)
How astronauts are kept alive in space (yes-even toilets)
You will learn about entry level job in aerospace engineering, what the job actually looks like day to day, and how much you can earn. Go behind the scenes with Johanna Siegel a systems engineer working on NASA’s Artemis program-from designing life-support systems to solving real problems that keep astronauts safe and functional in space.
How much can you earn?
This is the job responsible for keeping humans alive in space.
Entry-level: $70K–$95K
Mid-career: $100K–$140K+
Senior/lead: $150K–$200K+
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FAQ
How much do NASA contractor systems engineers make?
Most earn between $100,000 and $150,000+, with senior roles reaching $200,000 or more depending on experience and specialization.
What does a systems engineer do in aerospace?
They design, integrate, and manage complex systems—ensuring all components of a mission (like life support, safety, and hardware) work together reliably.
Do you work directly for NASA as a contractor?
Most engineers are employed by private aerospace or defense companies that hold contracts with NASA.
What degree do you need to become a systems engineer?
A bachelor’s degree in engineering (such as aerospace, mechanical, or bioengineering) is typically required; advanced degrees can increase earning potential.
Is systems engineering a high-paying career?
Yes. It is considered a high-paying STEM career with strong demand, especially in aerospace, defense, and advanced technology sectors.
This show first aired on April 2025