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Satellite Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Controller III

Suitland, MD · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

The Satellite Controller III Provides real-time spacecraft operations support for DMSP satellite command and control activities in a 24/7 operational environment. Responsible for spacecraft ...

Acting as a satellite controller, you'll be in the driver's seat of the satellite; all satellite activities go through you. Using a first principles approach, you'll be responsible for defining test ...

Auria is seeking a Satellite Operations Controller to support the US Space Force (USSF) Space and Space Systems Command (SSC) Prototype Operations 1 (POPS-1) program. Satellite Operations personnel ...

Acting as a satellite controller, you'll be in the driver's seat of the satellite; all satellite activities go through you. Using a first principles approach, you'll be responsible for defining test ...

Acting as a satellite controller, you'll be in the driver's seat of the satellite; all satellite activities go through you. Using a first principles approach, you'll be responsible for defining test ...

Satellite Mission Engr Sr

Aurora, CO

$106K - $146K/yr

THE WORK Lockheed Martin is seeking a talented level 3 Satellite Operations Controller with an active TS/SCI w/ Poly clearance to to join our dynamic team in Aurora, CO . In this role you will:

$51K - $82K/yr

Peraton is seeking motivated Satellite Operations Controller in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to support our Front Range Operations and Sustainment Team (FROST) program, and to provide satellite ...

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How much do satellite controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Satellite Controller job?

A Satellite Controller is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining communication, weather, or research satellites. They track satellite performance, adjust its operations as needed, and troubleshoot any technical issues. Controllers work in ground stations, ensuring the satellite remains in optimal condition and fulfills its mission. They may also coordinate with engineers and mission planners to support satellite maneuvers and data transmission. This role requires strong technical skills and the ability to respond quickly to anomalies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Satellite Controller position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Satellite Controller, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related technical field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with satellite control software, telemetry systems, and industry certifications such as ITIL or SCJP is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure precision, safety, and seamless operations when monitoring and controlling critical satellite systems.

What are the typical work shifts and work environment like for Satellite Controllers?

Satellite Controllers often work in secure operations centers that require 24/7 monitoring, so shift work—including nights, weekends, and holidays—is common. The environment is typically team-oriented with close collaboration among controllers, engineers, and operations managers to ensure satellite health and rapid response to anomalies. Controllers spend much of their time monitoring data streams, coordinating scheduled maneuvers, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. The role is well-suited for those who thrive in structured, high-responsibility settings and enjoy working as part of a team dedicated to maintaining mission-critical infrastructure.

More about Satellite Controller jobs
What cities are hiring for Satellite Controller jobs? Cities with the most Satellite Controller job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Controller jobs? The most popular types of Satellite Controller jobs are:
What states have the most Satellite Controller jobs? States with the most job openings for Satellite Controller jobs include:
Infographic showing various Satellite Controller job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
Satellite Controller III

Satellite Controller III

Akima, LLC

Suitland, MD • On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Akima rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

247th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Five Rivers Analytics, LLC is hiring for a Mid-Shift Satellite Controller III, located in Suitland, MD. The Satellite Controller III Provides real-time spacecraft operations support for DMSP satellite command and control activities in a 24/7 operational environment. Responsible for spacecraft monitoring, command execution, operational coordination, anomaly support, and mission data integrity supporting national security and operational weather missions. To join our team of outstanding professionals, apply today!
Responsibilities
  • Execute spacecraft command procedures and monitor spacecraft health
  • Configure and monitor spacecraft ground systems
  • Support anomaly response and contingency operations
  • Perform operational reporting and shift turnover activities
  • Coordinate with mission planners and operations teams
  • Support mission data quality and data delivery requirements
  • Participate in operational training and certification activities
  • Support a 12-Hour shift, Day or Night

Qualifications
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Minimum 4 years of experience supporting satellite operations, spacecraft operations, or mission operations environments
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US SECRET Clearance
  • Ability to lift up to 25lbs
  • Experience operating within a 24/7 mission operations environment and responding to real-time anomalies
  • Experience serving as a senior controller, shift lead, trainer, or technical advisor
  • Working knowledge of:
    • Satellite command and control systems
    • Orbital mechanics and spacecraft operations
    • Ground systems and RF communications
    • Telemetry processing and analysis
    • Satellite health and status monitoring
    • Operational procedures and anomaly resolution

Desired Certifications:
  • DMSP Satellite Controller Certification
  • applicable IA/Cyber Awareness training certifications

Job ID
2026-23667
Work Type
On-Site
Pay Range
$100,000 - $125,000
Benefits
Regular - The company offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) and a range of other voluntary benefits. Paid Time Off (PTO) is offered to regular full-time and part-time employees.
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Five Rivers Analytics (FRA), an Akima company, is not just another federal IT contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At FRA, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, FRA provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, FRA delivers streamline operations in support of an increasingly fast-paced, complex, and dynamic digital environment.
As a FRA employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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