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Mission Operations Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Solutions Architect

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$61.75 - $81.25/hr

From ground system operations and mission control to technical training and software engineering, Qwaltec brings space within reach, and we are growing. We strive for excellence and accountability ...

Solutions Architect

Tempe, AZ · On-site +1

$61.75 - $81.25/hr

From ground system operations and mission control to technical training and software engineering, Qwaltec brings space within reach, and we are growing. We strive for excellence and accountability ...

New

Solutions Architect

Tempe, AZ · On-site +1

$61.75 - $81.25/hr

From ground system operations and mission control to technical training and software engineering, Qwaltec brings space within reach, and we are growing. We strive for excellence and accountability ...

New

... mission operations in Mission Control • Provide support, documentation, and training materials for new and updated mission operation tools • Undertake recurring Mission Control Training for ...

Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Supporting mission operations in Mission Control * Provide support, documentation, and training materials for new and updated mission operation tools * Undertake recurring Mission Control Training ...

Supporting mission operations in Mission Control * Provide support, documentation, and training materials for new and updated mission operation tools * Undertake recurring Mission Control Training ...

Supporting mission operations in Mission Control * Provide support, documentation, and training materials for new and updated mission operation tools * Undertake recurring Mission Control Training ...

Supporting mission operations in Mission Control * Provide support, documentation, and training materials for new and updated mission operation tools * Undertake recurring Mission Control Training ...

The Mission Support Specialist will assist with CBP's Administrative, Data Management and ... Operations Support Specialist * Administrative Support Specialist * Project Support Coordinator

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Showing results 1-20

Mission Operations information

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In mission operations, senior roles such as mission directors, program managers, or specialized engineers can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, and working for large organizations or government agencies. High-paying positions often require extensive expertise, leadership skills, and sometimes security clearances or advanced degrees.

What are Mission Operations?

Mission Operations refers to the planning, coordination, and execution of activities required to support and manage a mission, typically in aerospace, satellite, or space exploration contexts. Mission operations teams monitor systems, analyze data, and respond to anomalies to ensure the mission's objectives are achieved safely and efficiently. These professionals work closely with engineers, scientists, and project managers before, during, and after mission execution. Their work is critical to the success and longevity of complex missions, such as satellite deployments or interplanetary probes.

What does a mission operations engineer do?

A mission operations engineer is responsible for planning, monitoring, and controlling space missions to ensure successful satellite or spacecraft operations. They use specialized software and tools to track mission progress, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with teams to execute mission plans. This role often requires knowledge of spacecraft systems, communication protocols, and adherence to safety and operational procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by Mission Operations teams, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Mission Operations teams often work in high-pressure environments where real-time decision-making is critical, especially during key mission phases such as launches or anomaly responses. New team members may find it challenging to adapt to the fast-paced nature and the need for precise communication among cross-functional teams. To prepare, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with mission protocols, simulation exercises, and the specific systems you'll be supporting. Building strong collaboration skills and learning from experienced colleagues can also make the transition smoother.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mission Operations Specialist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Mission Operations Specialist, you need a solid background in systems engineering, problem-solving, and a relevant STEM degree such as aerospace engineering or physics. Familiarity with mission control software, satellite communication systems, and certifications like ITAR compliance are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure safe, efficient operations and successful coordination of complex, high-stakes missions.

What are 5 careers in operations?

Careers in operations include roles such as operations manager, supply chain analyst, logistics coordinator, production supervisor, and quality assurance specialist. These positions involve managing processes, optimizing workflows, and ensuring efficiency within organizations, often requiring skills in project management and familiarity with operational tools. They are common across industries like manufacturing, logistics, and technology.

What is the highest paying space job?

In mission operations, senior roles such as Mission Director or Program Manager tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often certifications in project management or aerospace systems.

What is the difference between Mission Operations vs Mission Planning?

AspectMission OperationsMission Planning
Primary FocusExecuting and managing ongoing missions, ensuring operational successDesigning and preparing mission strategies and procedures
Required SkillsOperational management, real-time decision making, technical troubleshootingStrategic planning, technical analysis, coordination
Work EnvironmentMission control centers, field operationsDesign offices, planning meetings
CertificationsOften requires technical certifications, project managementRequires planning and technical certifications, project management

Mission Operations focuses on the execution and management of active missions, ensuring smooth operations. In contrast, Mission Planning involves designing mission strategies and preparing for upcoming missions. Both roles require technical expertise and often overlap in skills, but they serve different stages of the mission lifecycle.

What are popular job titles related to Mission Operations jobs in Arizona? For Mission Operations jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mission Operations jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Mission Operations jobs in Arizona are:
Infographic showing various Mission Operations job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
Systems Engineer Level 4 - Mission Operations Development Lead - Gilbert

Systems Engineer Level 4 - Mission Operations Development Lead - Gilbert

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: None
TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
The Mission Operations Development group is looking for a Mission Operations Development Lead Engineer to join a growing team on our Gilbert, AZ campus. This full-time technical role will support multiple satellite programs and lead the development and execution of on-orbit operations across the full mission lifecycle.
The successful candidate will be expected to:
  • Provide mission operations support to Northrop Grumman satellite programs across LEOPS, NOMOPS, payload operations, and End-of-Life phases.
  • Lead on-orbit procedure and script development and automation
    • Development and verification of on-orbit command procedures and automated scripts based on operational concepts and vendor documentation.
    • Testing on-orbit operational products using simulators and resolving discrepancies.
  • Develop and maintain Signatures, Limits, and Constraints documentation
  • Author and maintain on-orbit handbooks and operator reference guides for Launch & Early Operations (LEOPS), transition to NOMOPS, routine NOMOPS, and payload event operations.
  • Develop and deliver system familiarization and operator training
  • Lead rehearsal activities for key on-orbit events, Mission Readiness Tests (MRTs), Mission Rehearsals (MRs), Day-In-The-Life (DITL), LEOPS events, transition to NOMOPS, and major payload events.
  • Execute Launch and Early Operations (LEOPS) On-console support during launch, early orbit, and transfer operations.
  • Provide On-Orbit Test planning and execution support to the Satellite Control Authority (SCA) OOT procedure development, test timeline definition, data review, and documentation of results and recommendations.
  • Support passivation and End of Life (EOL) planning and execution
  • Lead development and test of command procedures, telemetry pages, and other mission operations products derived from vendor and system engineering documentation.
  • Develop on orbit products including operation procedures and executable on orbit scripts.
  • Make modifications to existing operations procedures and products to incorporate lessons learned from in-flight performance, and develop new procedures as required.
  • Support system development activities such as requirements management, operations concept development, architecture input, integration and test, and formal program milestones.
  • Work closely with systems engineers to develop operational documentation and concepts for on-orbit checkout, commissioning, and routine operations.
  • Participate in on-orbit anomaly resolution efforts
  • Provide status reporting through both functional and program reporting channels.
  • Support multiple programs within the same product line with consistent application of Integrated/Developmental Operations processes and standards.
  • Support internal and external customer meetings through proficient verbal and written communication (MS PowerPoint, MS Word, MS Excel).
  • Role may require shift work and travel (~20% of the time) for simulations, rehearsals, launch campaigns, and on-site operations support.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related discipline and 8 years of relevant experience; 6 years with a Master's; 4 years with a PhD.
  • Prior experience conducting on-orbit mission operations and/or resolving satellite/ground system anomalies.
  • Experience with at least one spacecraft subsystem (e.g., ADCS/GNC, command and data handling, communications, power, thermal, flight software, orbital planning and dynamics, etc.).
  • Systems engineering experience or significant coursework in systems engineering or system design.
  • Experience writing technical documents for internal or external customers (e.g., procedures, handbooks, test plans, or operations documentation).
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to make persuasive presentations to external customers at milestone reviews.
  • Experience with scripting for automation (e.g., Perl, Python, or equivalent) applied to mission operations products and workflows.
  • Experience in on orbit script and procedure development
  • EVMS experience reporting to project management

Preferred Qualifications
  • Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional mission operations activities (rehearsals, LEOPS, OOT, or anomaly resolution).
  • Experience with mission operations development of on orbit handbooks, operational procedure and script development
  • Support of readiness activities to include Mission Readiness Tests (MRTs), Mission Rehearsals (MRs), Day-In-The-Life (DITL), and daily operations testing.
  • On console experience during a launch and early operations campaign
  • Familiarity with training and certification programs for space system operations
  • Work experience with external System Integrator
  • Knowledge of STOL programing language

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:
https://www.northropgrumman.com/space
Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.
Northrop Grumman Total Rewards
Primary Level Salary Range: $122,800.00 - $213,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939