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Satellite Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astranis

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

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 ...

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

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 · On-site

$44 - $49/hr

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 ...

EVONA

Aerospace Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Satellite Operator Location: Irvine, CA Shift: Night Shift (4 Days On / 2 Days Off, 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM) Compensation: $70,000 - $80,000 + Benefits About the Opportunity Join an innovative space ...

EVONA

Aerospace Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Satellite Operator Location: Irvine, CA Shift: Night Shift (4 Days On / 2 Days Off, 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM) Compensation: $70,000 - $80,000 + Benefits About the Opportunity Join an innovative space ...

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Satellite Operator information

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$124.5K

How much do satellite operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite operator in the United States is $73,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $86,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a satellite operator do?

A typical day for a Satellite Operator involves monitoring satellite systems, performing routine checks, executing scheduled maneuvers, and responding to any anomalies or technical issues that arise. Operators often work alongside engineers, mission planners, and technical support teams to maintain optimal satellite health and performance. Depending on the employer, the role may include shift work to ensure 24/7 coverage of satellite missions and may require quick decision-making during unexpected situations. Regular logging of activities, status reporting, and participation in team briefings are also part of the daily workflow. This collaborative environment keeps operations running smoothly and provides valuable learning opportunities for career development.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a satellite operator?

To thrive as a Satellite Operator, you need a solid understanding of satellite communications, orbital mechanics, and technical troubleshooting, often supported by a degree in engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with ground control systems, telemetry software, RF communication tools, and relevant certifications such as COMPTIA Security+ or specific operator licenses are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for ensuring continuous, safe, and reliable satellite operations in mission-critical environments.

How to become a satellite operator?

To become a satellite operator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, telecommunications, or a related field. Relevant skills include understanding satellite systems, radio communication, and control software, along with certifications such as FCC licensing or specialized training in satellite operations. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level technical roles is also beneficial.
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Satellite Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Satellite Operator

Astranis

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

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 used to safely and reliably fly spacecraft on orbit.

Our ideal candidate is highly motivated and open to learning how satellites are built, tested, and operated - no direct satellite operation experience is required, though relatable experience is desired.

Role
  • Collaborate with engineers to create, test, and execute satellite operations procedures, including launch, early operations, orbit raising, and nominal sustainment operations procedures
  • Monitor system health and report anomalies, working with the engineering team to safely resolve them
  • Participate in training exercises, helping to enhance our training regimen for new satellite operators
  • This role requires regular, consistent evening and overnight shifts, as well as weekend work to support 24/7 spacecraft operations
Requirements
  • 2+ years of professional work experience 
  • Process-oriented mindset with emphasis on excellence and repeatable execution
  • Highly motivated, self-starting, and able to perform duties without supervision
  • A passion for working in a fast-paced, collaborative, high-stakes environment
  • Don't meet them all? Not a problem. Please apply even if you do not meet all these criteria
Bonus
  • Basic understanding of satellite subsystems (hardware and software)
  • Basic understanding of satellite ground systems, antennas, & RF
  • Familiarity with testing and troubleshooting complex systems
  • Familiarity with software development tools such as Git
  • Experience operating complex systems
  • Familiarity with GEO satellites
Shifts

 The team operates on 3x8 hour shifts a day:

  • Morning: 0700 - 1500
  • Swing: 1500 - 2300
  • Night: 2300 - 0700

and rotates between shifts every 2-3 months. Off-console work is not on a shift schedule.

Week 1

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Off-Console Work

OFF

On-Console Shift

Week 2

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

On-Console Shift

OFF

Apply