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Satellite Mission Operations Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Operations Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

... Satellite Operations Engineer to join the team and help design, build, and operate the ground ... You will be responsible for mission planning, mission operations software architecture ...

Satellite Operations Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

... Satellite Operations Engineer to join the team and help design, build, and operate the ground ... You will be responsible for mission planning, mission operations software architecture ...

Satellite Operations Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

... Satellite Operations Engineer to join the team and help design, build, and operate the ground ... You will be responsible for mission planning, mission operations software architecture ...

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical ... About the Role We are seeking an experienced and motivated Mission Operations Engineer to join our ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

The Mission Operations Engineer will lead the testing effort for the Mission Ops program, ensuring product requirements are met and overseeing the testing processes for satellite systems.

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA

$76K - $103K/yr

The Mission Operations Engineer will lead the testing effort for the Mission Ops program working ... Experience with multiple LEO satellite programs and satellite Systems Engineering Integration and ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA

$76K - $103K/yr

The Mission Operations Engineer will lead the testing effort for the Mission Ops program working ... Experience with multiple LEO satellite programs and satellite Systems Engineering Integration and ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

The Mission Operations Engineer will lead the testing effort for the Mission Ops program working ... Experience with multiple LEO satellite programs and satellite Systems Engineering Integration and ...

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Satellite Mission Operations Engineer information

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$36K

$85K

$135K

How much do satellite mission operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite mission operations engineer in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by Satellite Mission Operations Engineers during satellite commissioning and how can they be addressed?

Satellite Mission Operations Engineers often encounter challenges such as hardware anomalies, unexpected telemetry data, and communication link issues during satellite commissioning. These situations require quick problem-solving, close coordination with spacecraft manufacturers, and detailed analysis of telemetry to ensure mission success. Proactive planning, robust procedures, and clear communication within the operations team and with external stakeholders are essential to effectively address these challenges and minimize mission risk.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Satellite Mission Operations Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Satellite Mission Operations Engineer, you generally need a degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, along with expertise in satellite systems and orbital mechanics. Familiarity with ground control software, satellite telemetry systems, and mission planning tools is typically required, as well as certifications like ITAR or COMSEC where applicable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you manage the complexities of mission operations. These combined skills ensure safe, efficient satellite operations and quick resolution of anomalies to safeguard mission objectives.

What are Satellite Mission Operations Engineers?

Satellite Mission Operations Engineers are professionals responsible for the planning, control, and execution of satellite missions. They monitor satellite health, manage communication between satellites and ground stations, and ensure that mission objectives are met efficiently and safely. Their work involves troubleshooting, coordinating responses to anomalies, and optimizing satellite performance throughout the mission lifecycle. These engineers collaborate closely with design teams, analysts, and mission planners to ensure the ongoing success of space missions.

What is the difference between Satellite Mission Operations Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectSatellite Mission Operations EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, physics, or related field; certifications like PMP or satellite-specific trainingBachelor's or higher in electrical, aerospace, or systems engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentMission control centers, ground stations, real-time operationsDesign labs, development teams, system integration environments
Industry UsageOperational phase, satellite command, and controlDesign, development, and testing of satellite systems

The Satellite Mission Operations Engineer focuses on the real-time operation and management of satellites during their mission life, ensuring successful command and control. In contrast, the Satellite Systems Engineer is involved in designing and developing satellite systems before deployment. Both roles require technical expertise but differ mainly in their project phase and daily responsibilities.

More about Satellite Mission Operations Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Satellite Mission Operations Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Satellite Mission Operations Engineer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Satellite Mission Operations Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Satellite Mission Operations Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Satellite Mission Operations Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.
Satellite Mission Operations Engineer

Satellite Mission Operations Engineer

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Littleton, CO

$70K - $95K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 389 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 63 rated aerospace companies


Job description

WHO WE ARE
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering advanced capabilities to our customers, we are proud to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and engineering.
LM SPACE: WHAT WE'RE DOING
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire and integrate our capabilities to transform the future. And we're reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We're creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security vision. We're erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We're advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation.
THE WORK
Lockheed Martin is seeking a talented level 2 Systems Engineer/ Satellite Mission Operations Engineer with a Secret clearance to work from our Littleton, CO location.
The role will support the SDA Tranche 1 program. You will primarily work in a satellite operations center alongside other systems engineers to develop procedures and products and plan operations sequences to operate the Tranche 1 spacecraft.
As Satellite Mission Operations Engineer, you will:
Establish voice, messaging, and data communications for multiple-satellite programs of varying priorities and classifications
Configure and monitor displays for computer and network equipment during normal mission operations
Provide multi-program coordination and scheduling using custom software tools
Provide Ground system input toward overall engineering development and testing
Determine and resolve anomalous conditions
Generate downtime reports and other associated documentation for operational outages
Provide inputs to process improvements
Provide operational inputs to overall engineering development and testing
Support various operations status, engineering review, and problem boards
Provide support to ground system development work, working groups, and test and checkout
This is an EMERGING PROFESSIONAL, level 2 ROLE where candidates typically require 1+ years of professional experience and a BS degree.
If you think this describes you and you are looking for an opportunity to grow and challenge yourself then we would love for you to apply!
WHY JOIN US
Opportunity for Impact: Join a team that is at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace and defense industry and make a significant impact on the success of our organization.
Professional Development: Take advantage of unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement within Lockheed Martin, with access to world-class training and development programs.
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry who share your passion for excellence and who are committed to supporting each other's success.
Competitive Benefits: Lockheed Martin employees play an active role in strengthening the quality of life where we live and work by volunteering more than 850,000 hours annually. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:
Medical
Dental
401k
Paid time off
Work/life balance
Career development
Mentorship opportunities
Rewards & recognition
We care about our employees and offer a generous benefits package: 401K, PTO, and work/life balance and more.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912