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Satellite Operations Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AST SpaceMobile

Satellite Operations Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Satellite Operations Engineer to support real-time operations of AST SpaceMobile's low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. This role is shift-based to ensure ...

AST SpaceMobile

Satellite Operations Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Satellite Operations Engineer to support real-time operations of AST SpaceMobile's low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. This role is shift-based to ensure ...

Voiceflow

Satellite Operations Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

We are looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to help Starfish become excellent and efficient at operating satellites. In this role, you will be on console, operating vehicles directly ...

Starfish Space

Satellite Operations Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

We are looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to help Starfish become excellent and efficient at operating satellites. In this role, you will be on console, operating vehicles directly ...

IonQ

Satellite Operations Engineer

Louisville, CO · Hybrid

$110K - $145K/yr

Up to 5% Job ID: 1637 The Role Capella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle ...

IonQ

Satellite Operations Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

Up to 5% Job ID: 1637 The Role Capella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle ...

Vantor

Satellite Operations Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$74K - $98K/yr

We are hiring for a Satellite Operations Engineer to work in the Longmont, CO office. This is an onsite position with a rotating shift. Responsibilities: * Routinely performs pre-contact ...

Hikinex

$111K - $152K/yr

The Satellite Flight-Operations engineer will perform and participate in the following tasks and activities, depending on the background and experience of the candidate. * Trade-off studies to design ...

Hikinex

$111K - $152K/yr

As part of the System Engineering Department, the Senior Mission and Operations Satellite System Engineer will participate, and coordinate the work needed for the analysis, planning and definition of ...

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Satellite Operations Engineer information

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How much do satellite operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite 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 operations engineer?

A Satellite Operations Engineer is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the health and performance of satellites in orbit. They operate ground control systems, analyze telemetry data, troubleshoot anomalies, and implement corrective actions to ensure continuous satellite functionality. Their role may involve planning satellite maneuvers, coordinating with mission teams, and supporting pre-launch testing. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of satellite communication systems, and experience with ground station operations are essential for this role.

What does a satellite operations engineer do?

A typical day for a Satellite Operations Engineer involves monitoring satellite performance, analyzing telemetry data, and coordinating responses to any anomalies or unexpected events. You may participate in shift work to ensure 24/7 operational coverage, collaborate with hardware engineers, mission planners, and ground station teams, and document system status or updates. Regular tasks include executing command sequences, supporting satellite launches or maneuvers, and preparing detailed reports for senior engineers and management. This role combines technical hands-on work with real-time problem-solving and teamwork, providing a dynamic and impactful work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a satellite operations engineer?

To thrive as a Satellite Operations Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related technical field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with satellite control systems, mission planning software, telemetry, and (where applicable) industry certifications such as ITAR or FCC licensure is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure the reliable operation, monitoring, and troubleshooting of satellites in a highly collaborative and mission-critical environment.

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Satellite Operations Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Operations Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Satellite Operations Engineer

Lanham, MD • On-site

AST SpaceMobile
Telecommunications • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about AST SpaceMobileexternal

$69K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Satellite Operations Engineer to support real-time operations of AST SpaceMobile's low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. This role is shift-based to ensure 24/7 coverage, including weekends and holidays. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background and a passion for space systems, automation, and mission success.

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute planned tasks for LEO satellite operations from the Satellite Operations Center (SOC) in a shift environment
  • Coordinate with the satellite and the ground network to configure ground equipment to execute scheduled satellite contacts (pre-pass, pass, and post-pass)
  • Execute satellite procedures and upload satellite commands according to contact planning schedule and verify satellite response
  • Monitor and process satellite telemetry data and monitor satellite subsystem state of health
  • Maintain situational awareness of satellite and ground station configuration and status
  • Respond to satellite, ground systems, and network alarms
  • Provide triage support to satellite and ground system anomalies, collect data, call in engineers, and support the anomaly resolution team as required
  • Operate SOC operations software tools
  • Participate in daily shift handover briefings
  • Support mission product development including procedure development, test, and validation
  • Support system readiness, planning, and preparation for satellite launch
  • Attend required and routine training sessions, simulations, rehearsals, conferences, and program reviews

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in engineering or a STEM-related field

Experience:

A minimum of 2 years of satellite operations experience

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with LEO satellite constellations
  • Familiarity with mission planning, flight dynamics, and ground network operations
  • Prior work in a 24/7 operations environment
  • Exposure to automation tools and scripting for satellite operations
  • Knowledge of satellite telemetry and command systems 

Soft Skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of all documentation and project deliverables
  • Self-starter with initiative and ownership mindset
  • Adaptability to rapidly evolving system requirements

Technology Stack

  • Satellite command and control software
  • Ground network configuration tools
  • Mission planning and flight dynamics applications
  • Telemetry monitoring systems
  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Linux-based systems and scripting (preferred)

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Must be able to remain alert and responsive during prolonged periods of monitoring and operations

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands. 

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