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Mission Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Aero

Mission Operations Specialist

Southaven, MS

$47K - $63K/yr

The Mission Operations Specialist (MOS) will be responsible for execution of test procedures in new and existing vehicles. MOS will perform pre-mission tasks (vehicle mission programming, inspection ...

E-Space

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$76.60K - $103.70K/yr

The Mission Operations Engineer will lead the testing effort for the Mission Ops program, ensuring product requirements are met and overseeing the testing processes for satellite systems.

E-Space

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA

$76.60K - $103.70K/yr

The Mission Operations Engineer will lead the testing effort for the Mission Ops program working onsite in our Saratoga, CA office location. The ideal candidate has experience as an individual ...

JT4

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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How much do mission operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 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 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 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 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 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
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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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,222 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Mission Operations Specialist

Ocean Aero

Southaven, MS

$47K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

About Ocean Aero:

Ocean Aero is an award-winning US company that has created the world's first and only environmentally powered Autonomous Underwater and Surface Vehicle (AUSV). Ocean Aero's autonomous marine robot, the Triton, operates exclusively on wind and solar energy and performs long endurance missions on the ocean surface with the ability to dive below the waves for underwater operations. The Triton uses a complex array of custom-built sensors, marinized electronics and software systems to operate, sense and communicate in the environment.

Ocean Aero has a collaborative culture with plenty of opportunities for growth and ownership, and comprehensive benefits.

Role Description:

The Mission Operations Specialist (MOS) will be responsible for execution of test procedures in new and existing vehicles. MOS will perform pre-mission tasks (vehicle mission programming, inspection, and testing). MOS must be able to recognize deviations from vehicle specifications and have the ability to troubleshoot and solve identified issues. MOS will also perform post mission data download and analysis. The MOS will also support testing and demonstrating the Triton. MOS will provide customer support and training for new and existing customers both in-house and in the field, including potentially hazardous duty locations. The MOS will be working alongside a team of creative engineers with a diverse set of backgrounds and skills. Ocean Aero has a collaborative culture with plenty of opportunities for growth and ownership. As an early member of the team, you will take ownership of the product, and your actions will directly contribute to the success of the company. This role will report to the Director of Mission Operations.

Role Responsibilities:

  • Operate and maintain the Triton during testing, demonstrations, and customer engagements
  • Consult with internal product support and engineering personnel to determine solutions to unusual problems in product operation and maintenance
  • Implement product upgrades, including software conversions, and design modifications, including installation support for the modifications
  • Perform moderately complex maintenance service and repair where judgment is required in resolving problems and making routine recommendations
  • Document test results with appropriate information in a complete manner and communicate to all required
  • Read and interpret specific test procedures to properly perform and document test results
  • Perform all job responsibilities in support of Product Quality Standards
  • Effectively communicate all design problems and "bugs" to the correct areas within the organization
  • Efficiency exhibited through strong analytical, and troubleshooting skills

Role Requirements:

  • Strong organizational and cross-department communication skills
  • Excellent analytical/problem solving abilities
  • Ability to think independently about creative solutions to design problems
  • Technical proficiency in relevant technologies and products
  • Experience operating small boats, reading nautical charts, and water navigation
  • Team player, with effective verbal, written, and presentation skills
  • Frequent physical activity in both field and maritime environments
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, kneel, climb, push, pull, and lift on a regular basis
  • Must be comfortable working onboard vessels, including underway or docked, in varying weather conditions
  • Competence to handle tools and equipment
  • Ability to traverse various types of terrain, maintain balance, spatial awareness, and physical stamina while performing critical operations in a dynamic, team-oriented environment
  • Travel: 50% customer-site travel, including long-duration (30-45 days at a time) international travel
  • High level of attention to detail and safety awareness
  • Ability to perform duties in hazardous duty locations as defined appropriate by Ocean Aero Leadership
  • US Citizenship required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance and US Passport
  • Possess a valid Transportation Worker Identity Credential (TWIC) or successfully pass the requirements to obtain one
  • Ability to pass drug screen, background check, and motor vehicle screening

Role Preferences:

  • Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical, Electrical, or related field
  • Experience with surface or underwater drones
  • Familiar with embedded and system level troubleshooting: PuTTY, WinSCP, Linux, and CLI
  • Acquainted with schematics and their interpretation
  • Accustomed to Power Systems, Batteries, BMS, Cable Plants, Connectors, RF Cables, Communications Cables, GPS, Sensors, RF Communications, Antennas
  • Proficient with communications, protocols, and signaling
  • Comfortable with the use of multimeters, O-scopes, and related test equipment
  • Experience with debugging electrical systems
  • Ability to read data sheets and interpret them
  • Captain's License, valid Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) course completion, or related US Coast Guard approved maritime training
  • Valid US Passport

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