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Permanent Payload Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Security UAS Specialist - Memphis

Memphis, TN · On-site

$95K - $128K/yr

When not operating or maintaining vehicles, these specialists will assist in developing use ... Understanding of various sensor and payload types and their appropriate employment. * Knowledge of ...

Permanent Payload Operator information

What is a permanent payload operator?

A Permanent Payload Operator is a professional responsible for managing and controlling the payload systems on spacecraft, satellites, or other aerospace vehicles. They ensure that scientific instruments, communication devices, or cargo are properly operated and monitored during missions. Their duties include real-time payload operation, troubleshooting, data analysis, and coordination with mission control teams. Permanent Payload Operators are typically employed by space agencies, private aerospace companies, or research organizations for ongoing or long-term missions.

What are some typical challenges permanent payload operators face when managing satellite operations, and how can they prepare for them?

Permanent Payload Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining seamless communication with multiple satellites, troubleshooting real-time anomalies, and adapting quickly to rapidly changing mission parameters. These professionals must stay alert during shifts—sometimes outside regular hours—and work closely with engineering and mission control teams to ensure payload performance. Staying updated on payload software, understanding telemetry, and developing strong problem-solving skills help operators handle these scenarios effectively and minimize mission risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a permanent payload operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Permanent Payload Operator, you need strong technical aptitude in aerospace operations, attention to detail, and typically a background in engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with satellite control software, telemetry systems, and industry certifications such as a Remote Sensing or Space Operations license are often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, situational awareness, and clear communication are vital soft skills for responding to anomalies and collaborating with mission teams. These skills ensure safe, precise payload management and mission success in the high-stakes environment of space operations.

What is the difference between Permanent Payload Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectPermanent Payload OperatorCrane Operator
Required CertificationsPayload handling, safety, and equipment operation certificationsCrane operation licenses and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, warehouses, shipping yardsConstruction sites, shipping ports, industrial facilities
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, manufacturingConstruction, shipping, heavy lifting

Both roles involve equipment operation in industrial settings, with overlapping certifications and work environments. The main difference is that Permanent Payload Operators focus specifically on handling payloads in logistics and shipping contexts, while Crane Operators operate cranes for lifting heavy materials in construction and industrial projects.

Infographic showing various Permanent Payload Operator job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 41% Contract, 11% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Security UAS Specialist - Memphis

SpaceX

Memphis, TN • On-site

$95K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SECURITY UAS SPECIALIST - MEMPHIS
The Security UAS Specialist operates, maintains and manages the fleet of remote vehicles in use with SpaceX. The Security UAS Specialist will operate under the direction of the Security UAS Manager and will provide persistent aerial surveillance, data collection and analysis and advise site leadership of system capabilities and opportunities. This role will work in multiple environments and facilities that support the overall goals of SpaceX. When not operating or maintaining vehicles, these specialists will assist in developing use procedures and training system users.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform launch, flight, and recovery of UAS including preflight inspections, operational checks, installation of payloads (cameras, datalinks, and test instrumentation), and post flight inspections.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on sensor equipment and unmanned aerial vehicles.
  • Provide recommendations to leadership regarding the innovative use of remote vehicles.
  • Under the review and direction of the Security UAS Manager, perform aerial data collection using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
  • Act as the Pilot in Command while operating sUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) and provide supervision to other operators.
  • Basic GPS data collection for collecting survey points.
  • Operates and maintains sUAS/Drones for use in mapping, surveying, and inspections. Duties include flight plan preparation, data collection, processing, and documentation.
  • Conduct quality assurance checks following data collection to ensure adequate project coverage.
  • Excellent judgement with a clear "safety-first" mentality.
  • Integrate sUAS and other remote systems into security operations in partnership with a diverse array of supporting teams.
  • Train and supervise other members of the team in the safe operation of remote vehicles and support licensing requirements.
  • Collaborate with all staff members in the development and use of proper procedures in support of remote systems employment by Physical Security.
  • Ensure all components and materials are clean and serviceable.
  • Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits, or certifications as required.
  • Perform a variety of related duties in support of Physical Security, as needed.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or equivalency certification.
  • Current FAA UAS Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate with small UAS rating.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Possess fixed-wing and rotary-wing flight experience in autonomous and non-autonomous modes.
  • RC Pilot Experience and manual flight skills in complex environments.
  • Experience with common flight planning and ground station software such as:
    Pix4d, Drone Deploy, Drone2Map, DJI suite, Auterion suite, etc.
  • Understanding of various sensor and payload types and their appropriate employment.
  • Knowledge of Airspace Restrictions, NOTAMS and COA requests and risk assessments.
  • Basic computer skills, including experience using Microsoft Office and photo generation/compilation.
  • Use of precision measuring instruments/equipment such as laser rangefinders and GPS units.
  • Understanding of signal and spectrum de-confliction to allow safe operation in a congested electronic environment.
  • Communication skills for relaying data (verbally and in-writing) between other employees and customers.
  • A passion for troubleshooting problems in the field.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment.
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other department staff, management, vendors, outside agencies, community groups and the public.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Ability to lift up to 35lbs. unassisted
  • Ability to pass background screening for access to facilities housed on the Department of Defense (DOD) installations.
  • Comfortable working at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with appropriate safety gear.
  • Comfortable working in extreme outdoor environments heat, cold, rain, etc.
  • Comfortable working in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise.
  • Availability to work extended hours and weekends, as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required.
  • Willing to travel as needed (up to 35%).

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US