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Satellite Communication Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Required Skills: * 6+ years of experience managing/operating satellite communication networks * Experience with federal government communication networks Desired Skills: * Experienced in operation ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Required Skills: * 6+ years of experience managing/operating satellite communication networks * Experience with federal government communication networks Desired Skills: * Experienced in operation ...

Experience as a Satellite Controller or Satellite Communications Technician * Understanding Radio Frequency fundamentals Satellite C2 operations experience with operating satellite ground terminals ...

Experience as a Satellite Controller or Satellite Communications Technician * Understanding Radio Frequency fundamentals Satellite C2 operations experience with operating satellite ground terminals ...

Experience as a Satellite Controller or Satellite Communications Technician * Understanding Radio Frequency fundamentals Satellite C2 operations experience with operating satellite ground terminals ...

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Satellite Communication Operator information

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$74K

$124.5K

How much do satellite communication operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 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:

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 Technician - NISSC - CMSFS

Colorado Springs, CO

$72K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Satellite Technician

Location: Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, Colorado

Relocation Assistance: None available at this time

Remote/Telework: NO - Not available for this position

Clearance Type: Top Secret with SCI Eligibility

Shift: Shift work is required to support 24x7 operations. It is important to be available to work any shift/designated hours required including nights, weekends, and holidays on a modified Panama schedule

Travel Required: Up to 10% of the time

Our NORAD Operations Group

Selected by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's Strategic Warning and Surveillance Systems Division for Operations, Maintenance, and Sustainment (OM&S) of critical mission systems for the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Cheyenne Mountain Complex (NCMC), we support the Integrated Tactical Warning/Attack Assessment (ITW/AA) and Space Support Contract II (NISSC II).

Since 2020, through the (ITW/AA) and Space Support Contract II (NISSC II), has provided:

  • Operations, maintenance, and Sustainment of current and legacy systems for the surveillance and cataloging of manmade objects in space.
  • Mitigation of orbital conflicts.
  • Threat warnings and control from airborne, land-based, and space-based systems for threat activities.
  • Operations and maintenance of classified communications.
  • Software development and integration.

NISSC II supports the classified communications and processing for Command and Control (C2) capability and legacy space C2 systems located at:

  • Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station (CMSFS), Colorado
  • Peterson Space Force Base (PSFB), Colorado
  • Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska
  • Vandenberg Space Force Base, California
  • Numerous sensor and forward operator sites around the world

Description of Duties:

The Satellite Technician supports North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) on the Integrated Tactical Warning/Attack Assessment (ITW/AA) and Space Support Contract II (NISSC II). The candidate will:

  • Ensure Two-Person Integrity is in place 24/7.
  • Operate the Satellite Communications primary and remote terminals/nodes.
  • Perform line-ready unit maintenance actions on the primary and remote terminals/nodes, as well as regularly scheduled Satellite Communications equipment preventative maintenance tasks.
  • Perform maintenance tasks associated with Satellite Communications antennae group equipment.
  • Perform system administration functions for creating, maintaining, managing, and troubleshooting user accounts, including password resets.
  • Perform duties of the Communications Security Officer, which include CRK and cryptographis audit log management.
  • Satellite Communications Technicians may be asked to support other areas/work centers across the NISSC II Operations and Maintenance contract.

Shift work is required to support 24x7 operations. It is important to be available to work any shift/designated hours required including nights, weekends, and holidays on a modified Panama schedule

Travel Required: Up to 10% of the time

This position is expected to pay $72,000-$82,000 annually; depending on experience, education, and any certifications that are directly related to the position.

This position will be filled and work onsite at Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, Colorado

Resumes, in month and year format, must be submitted with application in order to be considered for the position. The selected candidate may be assigned as one of our teammate companies.

Basic Requirements:

  • Top-secret clearance with SCI eligibility is required.
  • Security+ CE Certification is required.
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 6 months or more of directly related experience
  • 1 year or more of general work experience

Desired Requirements:

  • Previous Military Satellite Communications Systems Operations and Maintenance experience.
  • Experience Operating the Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals.
  • Experience in performing maintenance tasks associated Satellite Communications Systems.
  • Experience with system administration functions for creating, maintaining, managing, and troubleshooting user accounts, including password resets.
  • Experience performing duties of the Communications Security Officer, which include CRK and cryptographic audit log management

This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days. If a candidate has not been selected at that time, it will continue to be posted until a suitable candidate is selected or the position is closed.

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Typical benefits offered include flexible work schedules, educational reimbursement, retirement benefits (401K match), employee stock purchase plan, health benefits, tax saving options, disability benefits, life and accident insurance, voluntary benefits, paid time off and paid holidays, and parental leave.

#cjpost

The position for which you are applying requires a US Department of Defense security clearance. This is to advise you that if you possess dual citizenship (i.e., a citizen of the US and another country), to be granted a clearance, you will be required to relinquish your citizenship in the foreign country.

Compensation Details:

$72,000-$82,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

09/08/2026 - 09/15/2026

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.