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Mission Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Method Security

Mission Operations Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Role Overview As a Mission Operations Engineer at Method, you'll be responsible for the technical delivery of Method platform and directly working with users to ensure their deployment is generating ...

JT4 LLC

Mission Operations / Controller II

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$42/hr

Job Summary -- Essential Functions/Duties The Mission Operations Controller II provides control, coordination, and direction to personnel operating system assets involved in mission activity. The ...

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Mission Operations information

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How much do mission operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for mission operations in the United States is $19.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Mission Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Mission Operations jobs? Cities with the most Mission Operations job openings:
What states have the most Mission Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Mission Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mission Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mission Operations jobs are:
Mission Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mission Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,222 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Spacecraft Mission Operations Engineer

Varda Space Industries

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

What you will do (Job Responsibilities)

The Mission Operations team are experienced spacecraft operator. They are exceptional communicators, adept leaders, and a jack-of-all trades capable of applying cross-discipline engineering to bespoke solutions. An ideal candidate is someone passionate to work in a startup environment where you will have the opportunity to fully own on-orbit operations, and mold a unique new mission framework for operations in space.

  • Develop, coordinate, execute, and lead Varda's on-orbit missions.
  • Own the full ops development cycle for mission-unique payloads, from the creation of mission profiles through execution.
  • Work with teams across the company to continuously improve upon mission operations and ensure mission success.
  • Automate and eliminate operational burden by building webtools.
  • Scale up Varda's operational capabilities to support a growing flight cadence.
What you will bring (Basic Qualifications)
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, preferably Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer Science.
  • 2+ years of experience in a real time operations role on a complex and high consequence operation.
  • 1+ years of experience developing software tools in Python, JavaScript, and/or HTML.
  • Familiarity with Avionics, GNC, Software, and Thermal design practices for spacecraft.
What would be a plus (Preferred Qualifications)
  • 3+ years of experience with spacecraft systems.
  • Previous operator experience in a leadership role.
  • Previous in-orbit spacecraft operations experience.
  • Previous experience with Git and Atlassian products.
  • Familiarity with ground stations networks.
How Varda compensates
  • Salary range: $120,000 - $170,000 annually.
  • This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA.
  • Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance.
  • Offer compensation also includes the ability to receive stock options under the Company's Equity Incentive Plan.

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