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Satellite Communication Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astranis

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$44 - $49/hr

Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent requirements ... Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers ...

Muon Space

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

About the role Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You ... Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with a collaborative approach to problem-solving

Astranis

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers, hardware engineers, and software engineers writing and executing standard operating procedures ...

Muon Space

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

About the role Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You ... Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with a collaborative approach to problem-solving

Media Broadcast Satellite GmbH

About us MBS Operations GmbH is a trusted service integrator for critical communication services and a provider of managed gateways. For more than 40 years, we have been operating data and voice ...

Innovim

Satellite Technician - DOD

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Previous Military Satellite Communications Systems Operations and Maintenance experience. * Experience Operating the Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals. * Experience in performing ...

INNOVIM

Satellite Technician - DOD

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Previous Military Satellite Communications Systems Operations and Maintenance experience. * Experience Operating the Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals. * Experience in performing ...

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Satellite Communication Operator information

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How much do satellite communication operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communication operator in the United States is $73,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $86,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a satellite communication operator do?

A Satellite Communication Operator is responsible for managing and maintaining satellite communication systems that transmit and receive data, voice, and video signals. They set up, operate, and troubleshoot satellite equipment to ensure secure and reliable communications, often for military, government, or commercial purposes. Their duties may include monitoring signal strength, repairing equipment, configuring networks, and ensuring compliance with operational protocols. Satellite Communication Operators often work in control centers, field sites, or remote locations, supporting critical communication infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a satellite communication operator?

To thrive as a Satellite Communication Operator, you need a strong understanding of radio frequency (RF) theory, satellite network operations, and electronic systems, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or military training. Familiarity with satellite communication terminals, encryption devices, and network monitoring tools is essential, as are certifications like CompTIA Network+ or security clearances for certain roles. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for ensuring reliable, secure, and uninterrupted satellite communications in critical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by satellite communication operators, and how can they prepare for them?

Satellite Communication Operators often encounter challenges such as signal interference, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining secure, uninterrupted communications under varying environmental conditions. To prepare for these, operators should develop strong troubleshooting skills, keep up-to-date with the latest communication protocols, and participate in regular training on both hardware and software systems. Proactive communication with team members and other departments is also crucial to quickly address and resolve issues as they arise.

What is the difference between Satellite Communication Operator vs Satellite Network Technician?

AspectSatellite Communication OperatorSatellite Network Technician
CredentialsFCC licenses, technical certificationsFCC licenses, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentControl centers, field sitesField sites, data centers
Industry UsageTelecom, defense, maritimeTelecom, satellite service providers
Primary FocusOperating satellite communication systemsMaintaining and repairing satellite network hardware

While both roles require technical certifications and work within satellite communications, Satellite Communication Operators focus on operating and monitoring satellite systems, often in control centers. In contrast, Satellite Network Technicians primarily handle maintenance and repairs of satellite hardware. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry but differ in daily tasks and responsibilities.

How to become a satellite communication operator?

To become a satellite communication operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in telecommunications, electronics, or a related field. Relevant skills include understanding satellite systems, radio frequency technology, and troubleshooting, often supported by certifications such as COMPTIA or vendor-specific training. On-the-job training is common, and strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for operating and maintaining satellite communication equipment safely and effectively.

What states have the most Satellite Communication Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Satellite Communication Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Communication Operator jobs?

For Satellite Communication Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Satellite Communication Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Astranis
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Astranisexternal

$44 - $49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Astranis builds advanced satellites for high orbits, expanding humanity's reach into the solar system. Today, Astranis satellites provide dedicated, secure networks to highly-sophisticated customers across the globe- large enterprises, sovereign governments, and the US military. With five satellites on orbit and many more set to launch soon, the company is servicing a backlog of more than $1 billion of commercial contracts.
Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent requirements for uptime, data security, network visibility, and customization. Astranis has raised over $750 million from some of the world's best investors, from Andreessen Horowitz to Blackrock and Fidelity, and employs a team of 450 engineers and entrepreneurs. Astranis designs, builds, and operates its satellites out of its 153,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Northern California, USA.
Satellite Operator
As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers, hardware engineers, and software engineers writing and executing standard operating procedures used to safely and reliably fly spacecraft on orbit.
Our ideal candidate is highly motivated and open to learning how satellites are built, tested, and operated - no direct satellite operation experience is required, though relatable experience is desired.
Role
  • Collaborate with engineers to create, test, and execute satellite operations procedures, including launch, early operations, orbit raising, and nominal sustainment operations procedures
  • Monitor system health and report anomalies, working with the engineering team to safely resolve them
  • Participate in training exercises, helping to enhance our training regimen for new satellite operators
  • This role requires regular, consistent evening and overnight shifts, as well as weekend work to support 24/7 spacecraft operations
Requirements
  • 2+ years of professional work experience
  • Process-oriented mindset with emphasis on excellence and repeatable execution
  • Highly motivated, self-starting, and able to perform duties without supervision
  • A passion for working in a fast-paced, collaborative, high-stakes environment
  • Don't meet them all? Not a problem. Please apply even if you do not meet all these criteria
Bonus
  • Basic understanding of satellite subsystems (hardware and software)
  • Basic understanding of satellite ground systems, antennas, & RF
  • Familiarity with testing and troubleshooting complex systems
  • Familiarity with software development tools such as Git
  • Experience operating complex systems
  • Familiarity with GEO satellites
Shifts
The team operates on 3x8 hour shifts a day:
  • Morning: 0700 - 1500
  • Swing: 1500 - 2300
  • Night: 2300 - 0700

and rotates between shifts every 2-3 months. Off-console work is not on a shift schedule.
Week 1
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Off-Console Work
OFF
On-Console Shift
Week 2
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
On-Console Shift
OFF
What we offer:
All our positions offer a compensation package that includes equity and robust benefits.
Base pay is just one component of Astranis's total rewards package. Your compensation also includes a significant equity package via incentive stock options, high-quality company-subsidized healthcare, disability and life insurance, 401(k) retirement planning, flexible PTO, and free on-site catered meals.
Astranis pay ranges are informed and defined through professional-grade salary surveys and compensation data sources. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, and the level and scope of the position.
Base Hourly Pay
$44-$49 USD
U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required
(To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States, or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3))
Our mission and products are built for everyone, regardless of gender, race, creed, or background. We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we invite all people to join our team and bring their unique perspectives to make us stronger.
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3. After you opt out, we may send one final text message confirming that you have been unsubscribed. No further recruiting SMS messages will be sent unless you opt in again.
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