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Satellite Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Operations Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation ... The Operations Systems Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ...

SAIC

Operations Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national ... The Operations Systems Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ...

SAIC

Operations Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national ... The Operations Systems Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to ...

SAIC

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Provide engineering consultation to current satellite operations assisting with vehicle anomaly or event support. * Proactively works with Government, Developer, and SETA program managers and system ...

SAIC

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$120K - $160K/yr

Provide engineering consultation to current satellite operations assisting with vehicle anomaly or event support. * Proactively works with Government, Developer, and SETA program managers and system ...

SAIC

Satellite Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Provide engineering consultation to current satellite operations assisting with vehicle anomaly or event support. * Proactively works with Government, Developer, and SETA program managers and system ...

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Satellite Operations information

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Operations jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Satellite Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Satellite Operations jobs in Virginia? For Satellite Operations jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Satellite Operations jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Satellite Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Satellite Operations jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Satellite Operations job openings:
Satellite Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Operations job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution.

Operations Systems Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. Our team is developing cutting edge technologies that directly support critical Department of War priorities, combining both proven and first-of-their-kind capabilities that have never been applied in space. Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and direct access to senior Government decisionmakers, enabling us to move quickly and execute aggressive schedules using the most innovative contracting strategies available.
SAIC is seeking self-directed leaders who skillfully navigate ambiguity, solve complex challenges, and bring diverse expertise to a dynamic environment focused on delivering capability rapidly. Success here requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high impact mission. Candidates experienced as USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF (SSC), NRO, or SDA, applying the full range of the systems engineering discipline (e.g., Requirements Development, Architecture, SE milestones: SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.), and/or DAWIA/PMI Program Management will be especially well-prepared to excel.
Job Description:
This position is for an Operations Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Operations Systems Engineer provides embedded support within the government program office to guide the concept development, verification, and deployment of a critical space system.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Oversee projects from initial design (ConOps) to deployment, tracking timelines, and conducting cost-benefit and risk assessments.
  • Support the customer in oversight and monitoring of satellite constellation operations including maintain daily status and trending of operational systems.
  • Provide programmatic and technical guidance specific to operational center conops for future satellite operations center.
  • Develop requirements and oversee the stand up of operations from vendors.
  • Support anomaly resolution by assisting in the investigation, troubleshooting, and resolution of unexpected satellite behavior or failures.
  • Provide emerging requirements.
  • Provide programmatic and technical guidance on operational center conops for future satellite operations center.
  • Participate in studies and system trades for enhanced capabilities.
  • Support verification, validation, and test planning.
  • Provide technical and programmatic assessments of contractor designs at major milestone reviews to assess progress, risks and issues, and the ability to achieve mission requirements.
  • Provide technical support to Government customer activities and programmatic processes.
  • Develop documents and briefings to communicate work or study status and brief Government and industry as required.

Qualifications
  • Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience; PhD or JD and nine (9) years or more experience.
  • Experience with space systems, including development of concept of operations, mission threads, and collaboration with stakeholders on interfaces; ability to conduct trade studies, define interfaces, and work with the developer to mature interface requirements.
  • Ability to absorb extensive technical detail and logically formulate solutions for execution on an inflexible schedule, often requiring integration of conflicting and, at times, incomplete data.
  • Knowledge and application of Systems Engineering processes and functions.
  • Systems engineering and system integration experience.
  • Prior experience with satellite systems design, requirements, development, integration and test.
  • Experience with the Intelligence Community or the Department of Defense Satellite Program Office best practices.
  • Experience with satellite system requirement development, design, manufacturing, and test.
  • Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.
  • Ability to facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
  • Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.
  • Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
  • Active TS/SCI Required.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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