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How much do mission operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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 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.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% 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 & AI Enablement Lead

Mission Operations & AI Enablement Lead

OceanX

New York, NY

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mission Operations & AI Enablement Lead

OceanX

About OceanX:

OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean's sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we're building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies.

For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Position Summary:

OceanX is seeking a Mission Operations & AI Enablement Lead who will oversee global expedition planning and execution while driving the adoption of AI-enabled systems, workflow automation, and operational technologies across the Missions function. This role serves as a key operational partner, ensuring mission readiness, efficient execution, and continuous improvement across OceanX's scientific expeditions.

The ideal candidate brings experience in operations, project management, systems implementation, or complex global initiatives. This is a hands-on, systems-focused role requiring ownership of mission planning, cross-functional coordination, data-driven reporting, and AI-enabled process improvement, with the ability to translate operational complexity into scalable, efficient workflows.

OceanX Missions advances its work through operational excellence, innovation, and collaboration, leveraging integrated systems, automation, and data-informed decision-making to support successful global expeditions.

Position Location:

New York City

Duties and Responsibilities:

Mission Operations & Execution

  • Oversee mission planning and execution across all phases, including pre-expedition planning, mission execution, post-expedition assessment, and continuous operational improvement.
  • Manage operational planning related to international permitting, customs, immigration, documentation, logistics, and regulatory compliance to support successful expedition execution across global jurisdictions.
  • Coordinate with internal teams, research institutions, external partners, vendors, logistics providers, and government agencies to ensure successful mission execution while balancing scientific priorities and operational requirements.
  • Partner with Marine Operations to support vessel scheduling, mission scenario planning, routing, fuel considerations, port availability, seasonal planning, weather analysis, and overall operational readiness.

AI Enablement, Systems & Integration

  • Implement AI-enabled workflows, automations, and operational systems that streamline mission planning, coordination, execution, and reporting.
  • Build and maintain integrations across mission management platforms (including Smartsheet, Jira, Notion, Monday.com, Marine Facilities Planner, and related systems) to automate workflows, improve data accuracy, and reduce manual processes.
  • Develop practical AI agents, templates, reporting tools, and workflow automations that improve team efficiency and reduce repetitive manual work.
  • Identify opportunities to simplify processes, strengthen operational visibility, and improve information flow through AI-enabled solutions and systems integration.

Data Management & Reporting

  • Maintain the integrity, governance, and accessibility of mission data, ensuring timely reporting and visibility for leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
  • Develop and maintain mission planning tools, executive dashboards, reporting systems, and operational documentation that support informed decision-making across the organization.
  • Create automated reporting and dashboards that communicate mission status, approvals, financials, milestones, action items, operational risks, and key performance indicators.
  • Conduct post-expedition operational reviews and leverage data analytics to identify trends, improve planning processes, and drive continuous improvement.
  • Research and evaluate international maritime regulations, permitting requirements, and operational constraints to support long-term mission planning and mitigate execution risks.

Operational Leadership & Continuous Improvement

  • Drive the continued evolution of OceanX's mission operations capabilities, operational standards, systems, and best practices to support future expedition planning and organizational growth.
  • Foster collaboration across OceanX's Science, Marine Operations, Education, Media, Partnerships, Data, and Business Operations teams to ensure mission priorities are effectively aligned and executed.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Professional Experience
    • Bachelor's Degree or higher, preferably in marine sciences or a business/project management or related field.
    • 5+ years of project management, operations management, or systems implementation experience in dynamic, global organizations.
    • Strong project management capabilities with a proven track record managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives across international contexts.
    • Demonstrated experience building and implementing AI solutions: specifically experience with AI agents, GPT-based language models, or automation tools for business process optimization, data analytics, and workflow management.
    • Hands-on experience with API integration and systems connectivity, including practical knowledge of connecting enterprise platforms (Jira, Smartsheet, Notion, Monday.com, or similar) to create automated workflows.
    • Experience in maritime operations, vessel logistics, oceanographic research, or scientific expedition planning highly desirable.
    • Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings or late evenings, to support cross-time zone collaboration.
    • Adaptable to varying workloads, balancing periods of focused execution with lighter operational phases.
  • Personal Attributes:
    • Determined, resourceful, and practical. An independent, self-starter, with a "roll up your sleeves" attitude and strong work ethic
    • Agility, with a track record of getting things done
    • Strong project management capabilities
    • Organized, reliable, and meticulous
    • Ability to work and thrive in an entrepreneurial, rapidly evolving environment, with significant ambiguity
    • Ability to prioritize, meet tight deadlines, anticipate needs, and maintain high-quality work
    • Ability to identify patterns and design practical technical solutions that create order from complexity with moderate guidance.
    • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
    • Maintains high standards
    • Highly collaborative
    • Interest in ocean science, exploration, conservation, or other mission-driven scientific initiatives

Illustrative Benefits:

  • Access to a World Class Exploration Vessel
  • 100% company paid medical premiums
  • 17 company paid holidays
  • Friday summer hours
  • Monthly community happy hours
  • Hybrid work environment
  • 2 One-Month Periods of Remote First Work
  • Free catered food services for in-office Thursdays
  • Generous PTO offering
  • Casual dress code
  • 150% 401(k) match up to $7,500 and 100% match above $7,500 ($15k match limit)
  • Gym reimbursement, back up childcare services, insurance, financial, and legal services, and much more!

Compensation:

Compensation for the role includes a competitive salary in the range from $120,000 -$140,000 (inclusive of a merit-based bonus, dependent on years of experience, level of education obtained, as well as applicable skillset) and an excellent benefits package, including paid time off ranging from 15 to 25 days based on years of service, paid sick and safe leave, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid parental time off, birth mother recovery pay, sick family member pay, parental ramp back up program, gym reimbursement and generous employer match for 401k.

Please note that we do not provide immigration sponsorship for this position.

At OceanX, we believe our biggest asset is our people. We are proud to be an equal opportunity

employer, hiring and developing individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences to add to

our collaborative culture. OceanX treats all candidates and employees with respect and does not

discriminate in our recruiting, hiring, and promoting processes and general treatment during

employment, including on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, sex, age,

sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, alienage or national origin, ancestry,

citizenship status, marital status, veteran status, or disability.