Satellite Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

At Auria, we believe in elevating people to achieve the extraordinary. We understand that the mission relies on each team member’s dedication and contributions and seek individuals with the desire to be part of something bigger and the courage to invest themselves in the outcomes.

Position: Satellite Operations Controller

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Remote Status: On-Site

Job Id:13709-POPS

# of Openings:1

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 perform a variety of increasingly complex operational tasks as they progress in experience and level, supporting assigned on‑orbit experimentation, demonstration, and prototype spacecraft and payloads. Personnel performing in this category will have in‑depth knowledge of operational systems and be capable of using their skills to make substantive recommendations to improve operational procedures and mission readiness. This position supports the Innovation and Prototyping Directorate of Space Systems Command, and is located at the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation Support Complex (RSC), Kirtland AFB, NM (Albuquerque). This is an operational on‑site position, and remote work is not available.

• Perform a variety of activities associated with the analysis of both ground operational systems and spacecraft operational systems
• Participate on assigned projects and missions in addition to supporting user and customer interface meetings, exercises, and rehearsals
• Perform long‑term trending of vehicle telemetry and notification to the government of trends that indicate potential vehicle problems
• Perform mission and pre‑pass planning, scheduling, orbit analysis and orbit product generation functions as well as the required coordination to achieve contact success
• Perform real‑time evaluation, trend analysis, and troubleshooting of spacecraft, payload, and ground systems status in accordance with established mission requirements
• Issue commands, directives, and other instructions to fixed, deployable, and mobile tracking stations within specific timelines
• Conduct post‑pass critiques with tracking stations and other real‑time support work centers and participate in technical meetings
• Provide 24x7x365 operational support
• Develop, implement, and maintain standardized operating procedures
• Perform tasks in accordance with standardized operating procedures
• Support management and performance of required shift and crew functions
• Support the following during normal daily activities: Test and Evaluation, Crew Force Management, Satellite Telemetry Analysis, Physical Security, Spacecraft Operations, Console Operations, Mission Planning, Technical Data Management

• Junior – Up to three years experience; and/or a BA/BS degree.
• Senior – BA/BS degree and 5+ years of experience, or Associates degree and 7+ years of experience.
• Experience with space systems and space operations or other highly technical system or command and control operations.
• Must be able to work various rotating shifts including holidays and weekends.
• Must have DoD Top Secret (TS) clearance with SCI eligibility.

$50,000–$60,000 for Junior; $70,000–$90,000 for Senior

July 1, 2026

• Generous & Growing PTO: Start with a substantial paid time off package that increases every year you’re with us.
• True Flexibility: Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8‑to‑5.
• 11 Paid Days Off: Enjoy 6 fixed company holidays plus 5 floating holidays to use whenever you choose.
• 401(k) Match – You can keep the match instantly: We match up to 4% of your contributions, with no vesting wait‑period.
• Industry‑Leading Education Support: Up to $12,000 annually for tuition and certifications.
• Premium Healthcare, Lower Costs: High‑quality medical plans paired with a Company‑Sponsored HSA.
• Fully Covered Life Insurance: Up to $50K provided at zero cost to you.
• Holistic Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial coaching, and more.

Auria is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action‑Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.