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Satellite Communication Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the role Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You ... Operations experience with spacecraft, ground stations, or other complex communication systems

Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent requirements ... Monitor system health and report anomalies, working with the engineering team to safely resolve ...

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers ... Monitor system health and report anomalies, working with the engineering team to safely resolve ...

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $40/hr

About the role Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You ... Operations experience with spacecraft, ground stations, or other complex communication systems

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$126.10 - $227.95/hr

You will conduct research, develop innovative solutions, and analyze advanced satellite communication systems to enable design, development, and integration for secure, reliable data, voice, or video ...

You will conduct research, develop innovative solutions, and analyze advanced satellite communication systems to enable design, development, and integration for secure, reliable data, voice, or video ...

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Satellite Communication Systems Operator information

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$124.5K

How much do satellite communication systems operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communication systems 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 is a satellite communication systems operator?

Satellite Communication Systems Operators are professionals responsible for installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting satellite communication equipment and networks. They ensure reliable transmission of voice, data, and video signals via satellite links, supporting both military and civilian communication needs. Their duties often include monitoring signal quality, configuring satellite terminals, and performing repairs to maintain optimal communication capabilities. These operators play a critical role in enabling secure and effective long-distance communications, especially in remote or challenging environments.

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

To excel as a Satellite Communication Systems Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio frequency (RF) technology, signal processing, and network protocols, often supported by specialized training or certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or military technical schools. Familiarity with satellite terminals, spectrum analyzers, encryption devices, and network management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you troubleshoot issues and collaborate with technical teams. These competencies ensure reliable satellite communications, mission success, and minimal downtime in critical operations.

What are some common challenges faced by satellite communication systems operators, and how can they be addressed?

Satellite Communication Systems Operators often encounter challenges such as signal interference, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining secure communications in demanding environments. To address these, operators rely on rigorous troubleshooting protocols, regular system maintenance, and up-to-date training on both hardware and software. Collaboration with technical teams and adaptability to evolving technology are also essential for ensuring reliable operations and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Satellite Communication Systems Operator vs Radio Communications Technician?

AspectSatellite Communication Systems OperatorRadio Communications Technician
CredentialsFCC licenses, technical certificationsFCC licenses, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentSatellite ground stations, remote locationsRadio towers, communication centers
Industry UsageTelecommunications, defense, maritimePublic safety, broadcasting, telecommunications

Both roles require similar certifications and work in communication environments, but Satellite Communication Systems Operators focus on satellite ground stations and space-based systems, while Radio Communications Technicians work primarily with terrestrial radio systems. They serve different sectors but share core technical skills and industry applications.

More about Satellite Communication Systems Operator jobs

What job categories do people searching Satellite Communication Systems Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Communication Systems Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Satellite Communication Systems Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Satellite Systems Operator/Maintainer II

Aleut Federal

Colorado Springs, CO

$85K - $105K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

ABOUT ALEUT FEDERAL

At Aleut Federal, we believe the company and its mission are just as important as the job you are applying for. Aleut Federal is an Alaskan Native-owned enterprise whose purpose is to support our “Shareholders,” the Unangax, the indigenous people of the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. People are at the core of everything we do. We support our Shareholders by providing excellent service and quality results to our clients and the various branches of the federal government. We engage in local markets, so community service is embedded in our process.

Our culture nurtures the strength of our workforce through mentorship and coaching, providing opportunities for growth and competitive benefits. We support and encourage diversity, inclusion, and accountability at every level.

The Aleut Federal motto is “We are One” because we truly believe that with one heart, one mind, and one purpose, we can accomplish our mission and be an organization anyone would be proud to be a part of.

POSITION SUMMARY

In this role, you will manage operational SATCOM networks, assessing and mitigating negative impacts in time-critical circumstances based on the prioritization of missions/users. You will also assist in providing space-enabled, secure communications capabilities to polar users in support of national objectives. You will provide assistance and support with telemetry and control, mission planning, and cryptographic planning for the EPS payload. The Satellite System Operator will work directly under the Director of Operations (DO), ensuring seamless, secure, and reliable satellite communications in a secure environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Support daily on-console payload operations.
  • Perform ground system and payload state of health assessments.
  • Operate the Communications Planning Element (CPE) application to perform communications planning for EPS users
  • Operate the Command and Control (C2) application in order to provide command and control of all EPS payloads 24/7/365
  • Support operations on 8,10, or 12-hour rotational shifts (depending on operational need).
  • Execute daily mission schedule activities and payload planning.
  • Support cryptologic planning functions in support of the EPS CAPS mission.
  • Provide payload performance monitoring and status updates on outage information and payload health to the customer.
  • Assist the Operations Manager with documentation support for contract deliverables.
  • Coordinate with the host on payload troubleshooting issues.
  • Implementation/development of procedures, data analysis, and other activities on operational/ non-operationally accepted equipment.
  • Recommend changes to current/future operations procedures and training documentation in support of EPS-R.
  • Support system engineering and integration assessments on new program requirements.
  • Support procedure development, data analysis, and other related activities as directed by management
  • Functional Area Monitor (FAM): Responsible for potential oversight and assistance of assigned functional areas (safety, tools, security, administration, records management, etc.)

EDUCATION/TRAINING

  • Required: IAT Level II Certification upon hire
    • CompTIA Security+ (preferred) or equivalent
  • Minimum: High School Diploma
  • Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree
  • Demonstrated experience working efficiently in a team environment

 EXPERIENCE

  • 3 years’ experience in SATCOM operations/maintenance.
  • Experience in space operations center processes.
  • Capable of autonomously performing all trained tasks, can assist and train others and lead small, scoped activities with known tasks, conditions, and parameters.

PREFERRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

  • Real-time ground systems experience: Proficiency in ground systems operations for GEO/HEO and LEO spacecraft. Familiarity with Polar Space Orbits preferred.
  • Military experience as a Cryptologic Technician or Electronics Technician, Digital Wideband Systems Maintainer, Command and Control Systems Operator, or Satellite Communications System Operator/ Maintainer.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Must be able to stand and/or sit for prolonged periods.
  • Must be able to bend, stoop, climb, reach, stretch, kneel, squat.
  • Must be able to perform repetitive tasks or motions for prolonged periods
  • Must be able to carry up to 50 pounds at a time and push and/or pull 50-pound loads at a time.
  • Must have sufficient physical strength, balance, hand-eye coordination, and stamina to complete various tasks.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces, ascend or descend ladders, and/or traverse scaffolding.
  • Must be able to work in personal protective equipment including but not limited to: safety glasses, fall-protection harness, protective footwear, hard hat, gloves, hearing protection.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This is an on-site position that requires work to be performed on-site at an Aleut location.
  • Working indoors in an office environment.
  • Potentially exposed to electrical or mechanical hazards, elevated work areas, and confined spaces.
  • Potential exposure to electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMFR).

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver’s license.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment background screening.
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings.
  • Must possess and be able to maintain a Top Secret with SCI eligibility clearance.
  • Must be able to be cleared for base or site access.
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be available for a flexible work schedule to include nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must hold and maintain a current IAT Level II CompTIA Security + certification (or equivalent)

Salary Range: $85,000-$105,000

We will accept applications for this position until 9/30/26.

Aleut offers the following benefits to eligible employees:

  • Health insurance
  • Dental/Vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Life insurance
  • 401 (k) and match

Aleut Federal, LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, AF complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. AF expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

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