Spacecraft Mission Operations Engineer

Job Description

This role is focused on supporting and executing complex space missions by helping build and operate the systems used to monitor and control spacecraft. The engineer will develop operational procedures, automation tools, and mission processes while supporting all phases of a mission, including planning, testing, simulations, and real-time flight operations.

Responsibilities:

• Ground Systems Support
• Test and verify mission control and ground system infrastructure to ensure everything is ready for flight operations.
• Document test results and system readiness activities.
• Support reviews of spacecraft-to-ground communications and update documentation as needed.
• Coordinate system access and ensure operators have the tools they need to support missions.
• Operations Procedures & Automation
• Create and update operational procedures, automation scripts, and workflows.
• Test procedures and build dashboards and tools used to monitor spacecraft performance.
• Help track flight rules and identify commands that could pose operational risks.
• Work with cross-functional teams to improve procedures throughout all phases of a mission.
• Simulations & Training
• Support mission simulations by helping set up, execute, and evaluate training exercises.
• Configure simulation environments and test equipment.
• Participate in training sessions and mission rehearsals to prepare for both normal operations and unexpected issues.
• Mission Control Operations
• Support real-time spacecraft operations during commissioning, critical mission events, and routine mission activities.
• Execute mission plans, assist with troubleshooting and anomaly resolution, and ensure smooth handoffs between operational shifts.

Skills and Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related technical field.

• Experience: 3-12 years of professional experience, internships, research, or other relevant academic experience within the aerospace industry.

• Technical Knowledge: Basic understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC), Power, and Thermal systems, as well as mission operations principles. Software Skills: Proficiency with Python and/or MATLAB for data analysis, troubleshooting, and development or maintenance of basic automation scripts. Plusses:

• Satellite Experience: Exposure to university-led or commercial satellite missions through coursework, research, internships, or professional experience.

• Operating Systems & Tools: Familiarity with Linux/Unix environments and exposure to spacecraft command and control systems or mission operations software.

• Mission Operations Knowledge: Understanding of mission operations processes, including requirements verification, procedure development and validation, mission planning, and operational readiness activities.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to [email protected].