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Satellite Operations Engineer Jobs in California

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The Spacecraft Operations Engineer at Waypoint S plays a critical role in managing daily operations ... Proficient in satellite systems and telemetry analysis * Expertise in mission planning and flight ...

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to develop and refine CONOPS (Concept of ... Prior spacecraft or satellite operations experience (LEO, GEO, or deep-space missions)

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to develop and refine CONOPS (Concept of ... Prior spacecraft or satellite operations experience (LEO, GEO, or deep-space missions)

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to develop and refine CONOPS (Concept of ... Prior spacecraft or satellite operations experience (LEO, GEO, or deep-space missions)

Mission Operations Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Required : • 4+ years of professional experience in hardware engineering. • Experience in environments like propulsion test stands, satellite mission operations, or flight testing. • Strong ...

... will be key to our satellite operation. In your first 6 months, you will define product ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline * Experience ...

Showing results 41-60

Satellite Operations Engineer information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$83.9K

$133.2K

How much do satellite operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite operations engineer in California is $83,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Satellite Operations Engineer jobs in California?

For Satellite Operations Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Satellite Operations Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Operations Engineer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Satellite Operations Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,915 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Waypoint Sierra Consultants

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$165K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

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Job description

The Spacecraft Operations Engineer at Waypoint S plays a critical role in managing daily operations and supporting long-term missions within a large cross-functional team. Based on-site at the control center in El Segundo, California, the engineer utilizes proprietary and standard aerospace software alongside custom scripting tools to ensure effective mission planning, telemetry monitoring, and anomaly resolution. This position requires an active TS/SCI clearance or eligibility for reissuance and a deep expertise developed through over 10 years of relevant spacecraft operations experience.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and coordinate spacecraft missions and operations
  • Monitor telemetry data to assess spacecraft health and status
  • Identify and resolve anomalies during mission execution
  • Conduct flight dynamics analysis to support mission objectives
  • Perform system testing and validation of spacecraft functions
  • Analyze operational data to improve mission performance
  • Collaborate across teams to ensure mission success
  • Generate detailed reports on mission status and outcomes

Required Qualifications

  • 10+ years of spacecraft operations experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field
  • Proficient in satellite systems and telemetry analysis
  • Expertise in mission planning and flight dynamics
  • Experience with software tools for spacecraft operations, including proprietary mission software
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and team collaboration abilities
  • U.S. citizenship and active TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI held within the last six months with eligibility for reissuance

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a SCIF environment
  • Familiarity with custom scripting and aerospace software tools
  • Ability to work full-time on-site in El Segundo, California

Company Description

Waypoint Sierra Consultants provides professional aerospace services for the most demanding missions, supporting the acquisition, integration, and operation of the world’s most advanced space systems for defense and intelligence applications. We provide system engineering and integration support to numerous USSF space missions. Our team assists in all mission phases, from pre-acquisition through launch-site integration and on-orbit operations.