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Satellite Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$80 - $100/hr

For more than 40 years, we have been operating data and voice communications via satellite and data networks--both on Earth and in space. Our expertise ranges from traditional satellite services to ...

New

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

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

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA ยท 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 ...

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Satellite Communications Operator information

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$21K

$74K

$124.5K

How much do satellite communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite communications 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 communications operator?

Satellite Communications Operators are professionals responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining satellite communication systems. They ensure the reliable transmission of voice, data, and video signals between remote locations using satellites. These operators monitor equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, and may work in fields such as military, telecommunications, broadcasting, or space agencies. Their role is essential for global communications, disaster response, and secure data exchange.

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

To thrive as a Satellite Communications Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio frequency (RF) theory, satellite communication protocols, and typically a degree or military training in communications or electronics. Familiarity with satellite terminals, spectrum analyzers, encryption devices, and industry standards like SATCOM systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help operators quickly resolve technical issues and maintain reliable connectivity. These skills ensure mission-critical communications remain secure, efficient, and resilient in dynamic environments.

What are some of the common challenges faced by satellite communications operators in maintaining reliable network connections?

Satellite Communications Operators often encounter challenges such as signal interference, adverse weather conditions, and equipment malfunctions that can disrupt network connectivity. Addressing these issues requires quick problem-solving skills, strong technical knowledge, and effective communication with team members and other departments. Operators frequently monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues in real-time, and may need to coordinate with engineers or field technicians to ensure minimal downtime and optimal service quality.

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

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

Both roles require FCC licenses and technical skills, but Satellite Communications Operators focus on managing satellite links and ground stations, often in remote settings. Radio Communications Technicians maintain and repair radio systems, typically in more accessible locations. While overlapping in certifications and industry usage, their daily tasks and environments differ significantly.

How to become a satellite communications operator?

To become a satellite communications operator, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with specialized training in satellite systems, radio operation, and telecommunications. Many employers prefer candidates with an associate's or bachelor's degree in telecommunications, electronics, or a related field, and relevant certifications such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license or industry-specific credentials. On-the-job training is common, and strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in shifts are important for this role.
More about Satellite Communications Operator jobs

What states have the most Satellite Communications Operator jobs?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Satellite Communications Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Satellite Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Satellite Communications Technician

E&M Technologies, Inc.

Colorado Springs, CO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description:

POSITION: Satellite Communications Technician 

WORK LOCATION: Colorado Springs, CO 

JOB CATEGORY: Information Technology 

JOB TYPE: Full Time 


REQUISITION ID: EM09-191 

CITIZENSHIP: United States Citizen 

CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret/SCI 

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: Up to 10% 


E&M Technologies, Inc. is dedicated to recruiting and developing diverse, high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. E&M provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do. 


E&M Technologies, Inc. is currently seeking a Satellite Communications Technician to join our team in Colorado Springs, CO in support of the North American Aerospace Defense Command. NORAD is a United States and Canada bi-national organization charged with the missions of aerospace warning, aerospace control and maritime warning for North America. Aerospace warning includes the detection, validation, and warning of attack against North America whether by aircraft, missiles, or space vehicles, through mutual support arrangements with other commands.  


Job Responsibilities: 

  • 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. 
  • 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. 
Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:  

  • Must have 1, or more, years of fulltime work (general) experience 
  • Must have 6 months, or more, of directly related experience 
  • Must have a current DoD IAT Level II Certification (eg Sec+). 
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen. 
  • Must have and be capable of maintaining a U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance at the required level. 

Preferred Qualifications:  

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

To Apply for this Position: 

You must have the Minimum Qualifications in your resume to be selected as a candidate.    


The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. E&M considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.  


Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.  


This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.   


E&M anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require E&M to shorten or extend the application window.   


E&M is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. E&M provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. 


As part of the federal government’s transition to the Trusted Workforce 2.0 Continuous Vetting framework, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) is expanding enrollment in the FBI Rap Back program for cleared industry personnel beginning April 1, 2026. 


Rap Back (Record of Arrest and Prosecution Back) is a service provided by the FBI that allows authorized agencies to receive notifications if there are updates to an individual’s criminal history record while they hold a security clearance. This supports continuous vetting of cleared personnel. 


Per DCSA guidance, we are required to provide the following FBI privacy advisements to all cleared employees: 

• FBI Privacy Act Notice 

https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/compact-council/privacy-act-statement  

• Noncriminal Justice Applicant’s Privacy Rights 

https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/compact-council/guiding-principles-noncriminal-justice-applicants-privacy-rights