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Contract Payload Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Radar Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Specific contract requirements regarding education and experience will prevail. * Relevant Radar ... operating within this environment. * System Test: Hands-on experience with radar payload systems ...

KBR, Inc.

Radar Payload Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Specific contract requirements regarding education and experience will prevail. * Relevant Radar ... operating within this environment. * System Test: Hands-on experience with radar payload systems ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

... in signed contracts across commercial and US government customers - we're mass-producing the ... optical payloads operating in the UV / VIS / NIR / SWIR / MWIR / LWIR. * Collaborate with the ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

... in signed contracts across commercial and US government customers - we're mass-producing the ... optical payloads operating in the UV / VIS / NIR / SWIR / MWIR / LWIR. * Collaborate with the ...

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All JobsContract Payload Operator Jobs

Contract Payload Operator information

See salary details

$644

$4.4K

$7.7K

How much do contract payload operator jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average weekly pay for contract payload operator in the United States is $4,395.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,403.85 and $6,538.46 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Contract Payload Operators?

Contract Payload Operators are specialized professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and managing the operation of payloads—such as satellites, scientific instruments, or cargo—on a contract basis, often for space missions or aerospace companies. They ensure payloads function correctly, gather and analyze data, troubleshoot issues, and communicate with mission teams. These operators are typically employed on a temporary or project-specific contract rather than as full-time staff. Their work is crucial for the successful operation of payloads in sectors like aerospace, defense, and telecommunications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Payload Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Payload Operator, you need a solid understanding of satellite systems, payload operations, and a relevant technical degree or equivalent military/industry experience. Familiarity with satellite control software, ground segment tools, and certifications such as Security Clearance are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of satellite payloads, directly impacting mission success and client satisfaction.

What is the difference between Contract Payload Operator vs Payload Specialist?

AspectContract Payload OperatorPayload Specialist
CredentialsFAA certifications, technical trainingFAA certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentContract basis, ground and launch sitesGround control, launch sites, mission support
Employer & IndustrySpace agencies, aerospace contractorsNASA, commercial space companies
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Contract Payload Operator and Payload Specialist roles both require FAA certifications and technical expertise in space operations. While Contract Payload Operators typically work on a contractual basis supporting launch preparations and ground operations, Payload Specialists are often part of the crew or mission team focusing on payload management during missions. Both roles are integral to space missions but differ mainly in their employment structure and specific responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by Contract Payload Operators when working with remote satellite operations teams?

Contract Payload Operators often work with geographically dispersed teams, which can lead to communication challenges, especially during real-time operations or when troubleshooting technical issues. They must be adept at following detailed protocols and collaborating seamlessly with engineers, analysts, and mission planners to ensure payload performance and data integrity. Flexibility is key, as shift work and rapid response to anomalies are common. Building strong relationships with remote colleagues and maintaining clear, concise documentation helps mitigate these challenges and ensures smooth mission execution.
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Contract Payload Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Payload Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $228,575 per year, or $109.9 per hour.
ISS Payload Facility Controller

ISS Payload Facility Controller

ZIN Technologies

Middleburg Heights, OH

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Company Description

For nearly five decades, ZIN Technologies (ZIN) has provided integrated
products and spaceflight hardware development services to NASA and
Fortune 500 companies. ZIN specializes in the seamless and transparent
progression between concept, detailed design, engineering,
manufacturing, and operations. ZIN, with its uniquely qualified staff,
and a proven track record of award winning work, delivers product
development, system prototypes, and space flight hardware on time and
under budget. ZIN has over 150 scientists, engineers, and technicians
engaged in the development of specialized data acquisition and control
systems, power converters, and optical-mechanical systems for aerospace and commercial applications.
 ZIN experience base includes competitively awarded engineering contracts
from both government and commercial companies. Our scope of experience
includes scientific, technical, operational, and program management, as
well as the disciplines associated with large, complex space programs.
ZIN Associates are talented, experienced individuals; many have advanced
degrees and professional certifications that provide a wealth of
knowledge and capabilities to our customers.  Operating as a team, we
are dedicated to supplying innovative, cost effective services and
solutions.

Job Description

TO BE CONSIDERED, APPLY AT www.zin-tech.com/careers

This position supports command, control and operations of CIR and FIR
experiment facilities operating on the International Space Station (ISS)
including real-time execution of experiment procedures as part of the
operation team staffing the Tele-science Operation Center located at the
NASA Glenn Research Center. Operators will work evenings and weekend
shifts as need to staff experiment operation timeline.  Duties include assignments in the areas of planning; facility systems operations; timeline development and execution, data management and execution crew procedure support. Duties will require successfully completing a training and skill certification process. Typically the candidate will first train and become certified for a Data Management Operator console position may subsequently attain additional certifications Rack Officer and Experiment Payload Operator.  Individuals
in this position may interface directly with the NASA customer, subcontractors, ISS program personnel, Principle Investigators, and science team members. This position requires successful completion of a
government background check before commencement of employment.

Qualifications

  • Must have strong written and verbal communication skills, effective listening skills.
  • Candidate must be a team player and be able to develop and follow detailed processes and procedures.
  • Self-disciplined, self-starter, professional with clear attention to details
  • Requires
    a 4 year accredited degree in technical field with preference for
    Computer Science,  Aeronautical, Aerospace, Operations Research, or
    Engineering Disciplines


U.S. Citizenship Required
Possible Relocation Assistance
 

Additional Information

In addition to competitive salaries, ZIN offers excellent benefits to our
associates, including medical, vision, and dental insurance; short- and
long-term disability; life insurance;  paid leave and paid holidays;
401(k) retirement plan (immediate vesting); education and training
reimbursement; professional development opportunities; employee
assistance program; flexible spending plans; credit union membership;
and direct deposit.
ZIN-Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
M/F/D/V

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