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Satellite Mission Operations Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Mission Operations Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$73K - $98K/yr

Vast is looking for a Staff Mission Operations Engineer reporting to the Senior Manager of Crew ... satellite, crew capsule). * Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with other engineering ...

Senior Mission Operations Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

Additionally, the company recently announced Vast Satellite , a high-power satellite product line ... Vast is looking for a Senior Mission Operations Engineer reporting to the Senior Manager of Crew ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$66K - $90K/yr

Working across product, engineering, sales, and logistics teams, our Mission Operations Engineers own the client relationships and develop, plan, and deploy Anduril products in support of their ...

New

The Senior Mission Operations Engineer will be responsible for leading the development, integration, and execution of mission operations across the spacecraft lifecycle. This role serves as a primary ...

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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 Sep 4, 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 is a satellite mission operations engineer?

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 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 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.

Are satellite mission operations engineers in demand?

Satellite mission operations engineers are in demand due to the growing reliance on satellite technology for communications, navigation, and Earth observation. The role requires skills in spacecraft systems, ground control, and software tools, with employment opportunities often available in government agencies, aerospace companies, and defense contractors.

What does a satellite mission operations engineer do?

A satellite mission operations engineer is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining satellite systems during their operational life. They analyze telemetry data, troubleshoot issues, and execute commands to ensure satellite performance and mission success, often using specialized software and adhering to strict schedules. Strong technical skills, knowledge of satellite systems, and certification in relevant standards are typically required.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Senior Manager - Mission Operation & Ground Systems Development

Boeing

El Segundo, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 616 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Senior Manager - Mission Operation & Ground Systems Development

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing's Space Mission Systems (SMS) Systems Engineering, Integration and Test (SEIT) Capability is seeking an experienced senior engineering leader to serve as the Senior Systems Engineering Manager for the Mission Operations and Ground Systems Department. This is an on-site role based out of El Segundo or Seal Beach, CA.

This Department Manager will provide day-to-day leadership for a functional organization with 120+ staff performing satellite mission operations and ground systems engineering supporting our Space Mission Systems business. This Department Manager will be responsible for setting the strategy, vision, and developing implementation plans to provide the people, processes and tools to execute system engineering work scope for our SMS satellite and ground business.

The ideal candidate will have a background in satellite mission operations and ground system development as a technical lead. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have prior experience leading a highly skilled engineering workforce. This candidate will need to be an open and inclusive leader partnering with fellow department managers in SEIT, other engineering capabilities and program leadership.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Manage employees and mid-level managers performing engineering and technical activities in the area of satellite mission operations and ground systems engineering across SMS programs.

  • Ensure appropriate skill mix of systems engineers are deployed across the portfolio.

  • Generate cost estimates and support new business proposal development efforts for the systems engineering work scope.

  • Develop and execute integrated organizational plans, policies and procedures and guide the development of business and technical strategies, goals, objectives.

  • Acquire resources for organizational activities, provide technical management oversight of mission operations and ground systems engineering work products and lead process improvements.

  • Develop and maintain relationships and partnerships with customers, stakeholders, peers, partners and direct reports.

  • Provide oversight and approval of technical approaches, products and processes.

  • Manage, develop and motivate employees and mid-level managers.

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed locations.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • This position requires a current Tier 5 (T5), formerly known as a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) (U.S. Citizenship required), or enrolled in a Continuous Vetting program within the last 5 years.

  • Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, or computer science.

  • 5+ years of experience leading or managing an engineering project or team

  • Product development and systems engineering experience

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Active U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)

  • 10+ years of experience as a functional engineering manager

  • Experience across the entire lifecycle of satellite ground system development

  • Experience in the mission operations engineering and mission support for space systems

  • Excellent communications skills, verbal and written

  • Ability to effectively communicate at all levels of management, customers, and partners

  • Ability to build a safe environment of inclusion, transparency, and trust

  • Leadership skills to lead and influence positive outcomes

  • Experience providing active mentorship and career guidance

  • Can up-level existing team by hiring high performance talent, growing leaders and helping underperforming members

  • Can gain trust of team and provide guidance for their careers

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility. Note: Basic relocation will be offered for eligible internal candidates.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Pay and Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary pay range: $212,500 - $287,500

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. A current Tier 5(T5), formerly known as a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) (U.S. Citizenship required) or requires candidate agreed to enter a Continuous Evaluation program Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Boeing

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At Boeing, we are all innovators on a mission to connect, protect, explore and inspire. From the sea bed to outer space, you'll learn and grow, contributing to work that shapes the world. Find your future with us.

Industry

Aviation and aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US