1

Satellite Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... This position requires a seasoned Satellite Systems Engineer who has had at least 6 years of ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... This position requires a seasoned Satellite Systems Engineer who has had at least 6 years of ...

Operations System Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$71K - $96K/yr

This position requires a strong understanding of operations, with prior experience in satellite operations. The candidate must demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and a ...

Operations System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

This position requires a strong understanding of operations, with prior experience in satellite operations. The candidate must demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and a ...

Operations System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

This position requires a strong understanding of operations, with prior experience in satellite operations. The candidate must demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and a ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Satellite Operations information

See Washington salary details

$686

$1.3K

$1.8K

How much do satellite operations jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average weekly pay for satellite operations in Washington is $1,334.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,144.23 and $1,578.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Satellite Operations jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Satellite Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Satellite Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,392 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Satellite Systems Engineer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is seeking a cleared and experienced Satellite Systems Engineer in the Fairfax VA area in support of USG. The seclected candidate will provide Tier 2/3 network support, terminal maintenance, repair, managing spares and component repair and return process, equipment inventory, testing, carrier management. And any/all additional tasking that ensures the reliable operational readiness for all associated systems within this global satellite communications network.
This position requires a seasoned Satellite Systems Engineer who has had at least 6 years of experience in managing satellite communications networks. Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA operations, BPSK, QAM encoding schemes and how they relate to carrier characteristics i.e EB/No; BER; satellite power and bandwidth consumption. Must be familiar with WGS and commercial satellite operations utilizing both heavy terminals, network field terminals and quick reactionary tactical systems. He/she also must be well versed on carrier analysis utilizing state of art digital spectrum analyzers to determine nominal carriers from distorted or irregular carriers. He/she must understand and be able to measure/calculate C/kt, C+N/N and C+N/No as well as terminal G/T and EIRP.
Additional responsibilities include orchestrating annual field terminal characterizations utilizing existing remote capabilities. Also he/she will be responsible for status monitoring of all surrounding support infrastructure i.e. radome; equipment shelters; deicers, blowers; emergency power systems; associated HVAC systems.
Required Skills:
  • 6+ years of experience managing/operating satellite communication networks
  • Experience with federal government communication networks

Desired Skills:
  • Experienced in operation/configuration of an I-direct subnets
  • Experienced in OCONUS travel/field environment

Additional Requirements:
  • Additional Technical and Specialty Training/Certifications Etc.
  • Years of Experience Required: 6+
  • Education Level/Major: Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communications
  • Can Equivalent Experience be Substituted for Educational Requirement (Yes/No): Yes, 6+ years of hands-on experience in RF/satellite systems
  • Weapons Certification Required (Yes/No): No
  • Professional License or Certification Required (Yes/No) / Type: No
  • OCONUS TDY Required (Yes/No) / %: No**
  • CONUS TDY Required (Yes/No) / %: No**

Must be a US Citizen and have an active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph from day one of employment and be crossover eligible
Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation's most mission impactful initiatives.
When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world's most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions.
At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
** Travel requirements/amount and duration are subject to the needs of the Customer and may be more or less than what is listed.
Salary & Benefits
The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.
Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.