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Satellite Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Muon Space

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA

$31 - $40/hr

About the role Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You will be at the forefront of our satellite and specialty sensing operations, ensuring the seamless ...

Muon Space

Satellite Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the role Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You will be at the forefront of our satellite and specialty sensing operations, ensuring the seamless ...

Astranis

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers, hardware engineers, and software engineers writing and executing standard operating procedures ...

Astranis

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$44 - $49/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers, hardware engineers, and software engineers writing and executing standard operating procedures ...

Loft Orbital

Frontend Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As a Frontend Engineer, you will work on enhancing the UI of satellite operations software and collaborate with the Software team to improve user experience and maintain web applications.

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Satellite Operations information

What is a satellite operations?

A Satellite Operations job involves monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the functionality of satellites in orbit. Operators ensure satellites follow their intended trajectories, manage communication links, and troubleshoot any technical issues. They work in real-time to adjust satellite positioning, optimize performance, and respond to anomalies. This role requires knowledge of orbital mechanics, telemetry systems, and mission-specific software. Satellite operators often collaborate with engineers, mission planners, and ground station personnel to ensure seamless operations.

What does a satellite operations professional do?

Satellite Operations professionals are responsible for monitoring satellite health, executing planned maneuvers, troubleshooting system anomalies, and ensuring proper data transmission between ground stations and spacecraft. They often work as part of a multidisciplinary team that includes engineers, mission planners, and data analysts, collaborating to maintain seamless satellite performance and mission objectives. Daily tasks might include running diagnostics, analyzing telemetry data, coordinating with other teams during critical mission phases, and responding promptly to unexpected technical issues. It's a role that combines routine operational activities with high-stakes decision-making, especially during launch or anomaly resolution events. This blend of responsibilities makes every day both challenging and rewarding, offering continuous learning opportunities in a collaborative environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for satellite operations?

To thrive in Satellite Operations, you need expertise in orbital mechanics, telemetry, satellite communications, and often a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Familiarity with satellite ground control software, mission planning tools, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or NASA’s MOCC training are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work well under pressure set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies are critical for ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of satellite missions in a dynamic and high-stakes environment.

How to become a satellite operations professional?

To become a satellite operations professional, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with satellite systems, understanding orbital mechanics, and developing skills in ground control software are essential; certifications in satellite operations or related areas can also enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Operations jobs in California?

The most popular types of Satellite Operations jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Satellite Operations jobs?

Cities in California with the most Satellite Operations job openings:

Satellite Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Operations job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Satellite Operator

Muon Space

San Jose, CA

$31 - $40/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About the role

Muon seeks a Satellite Operator to join our Operations team in San Jose, CA. You will be at the forefront of our satellite and specialty sensing operations, ensuring the seamless functioning, monitoring, and maintenance of our fleet of satellites in space. Your primary responsibility will be to execute satellite operation procedures, troubleshoot anomalies, and implement corrective actions to ensure optimal performance and longevity of our satellites. In addition, you will be interacting with the engineering teams to perform special operations, calibrations and orbital maneuvers required to maintain the health and safety of our satellites on orbit.

This position is onsite and requires working in our San Jose, CA office 5x a week.

Responsibilities
  • As a satellite operator, you will be responsible for executing our satellite operations procedures and monitoring the health and safety of our on-orbit satellite fleet.   
  • Collaborate with engineers across all disciplines to execute satellite operation plans and maintain continuity of satellite services.
  • Analyze telemetry data and satellite health reports to assess system performance, identify potential issues, monitor system alerts, and implement preventive measures as prescribed by procedures.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve anomalies and system malfunctions, utilizing established procedures and your technical expertise to restore satellite and system functionality promptly.
  • Execute satellite maneuvers, including orbit corrections and station-keeping, to optimize satellite positions and performance.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support the commissioning of new satellites into the fleet and ensure a smooth transition from launch to operational phase.
Qualifications
  • Associate degree or equivalent experience
  • Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with a collaborative approach to problem-solving
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
  • This position participates in a 24/7 on-call rotation with other team members. The on-call rotation is approximately one week per month and is a core responsibility of this role.
Nice-to-have Skills
  • Operations experience with spacecraft, ground stations, or other complex communication systems
  • Strong understanding of satellite subsystems, including power, propulsion, communication, and payload
  • Familiarity with industry standards and best practices in satellite operations
  • Experience with Python, Julia, or another high-level scripting language
Salary

The hourly range for this role is $31-$40 plus a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process.

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