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Satellite Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Experience operating within a 24/7 mission operations environment and responding to real-time ... Satellite command and control systems. * Orbital mechanics and spacecraft operations. * Ground ...

Up to 5% Job ID: 1637 The Role Capella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle ...

The Role Capella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle: from designing mission ...

The Role Capella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle: from designing mission ...

Up to 5% Job ID: 1637 The Role Capella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle ...

GPS is a satellite-based radio-navigation system owned by the United States government and operated by the United States Space Force and is the world's first global utility. GPS provides position ...

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Satellite Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$22.1K

$77.8K

$130.9K

How much do satellite operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite operator in Colorado is $77,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,300.00 and $91,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 in satellite or radio operations. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level technical roles is also beneficial for advancing in this field.

How much do satellite mission operators make?

Satellite mission operators typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require technical skills in satellite systems, communication protocols, and operational procedures, with some positions offering shift work or on-call responsibilities.

How much do people who work on satellites make?

Satellite operators typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced roles requiring technical skills and certifications may offer higher salaries, especially in specialized or senior positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Satellite Operator position, and why are they important?

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.

What does a typical day look like for a Satellite Operator?

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 is a Satellite Operator job?

A Satellite Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the functionality of satellites in orbit. They ensure proper satellite positioning, troubleshoot system anomalies, and coordinate with ground stations for data transmission. Operators also analyze telemetry data to detect issues and execute commands to optimize satellite performance. This role is critical in industries such as telecommunications, defense, and space exploration.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Satellite operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized engineers, or business owners in the aerospace or satellite industry. High-paying positions often require advanced technical skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Satellite Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Satellite Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Satellite Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,807 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Satellite Mission Engineer

Lockheed Martin

Colorado Springs, CO • Remote

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 389 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

WHO WE ARE
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering advanced capabilities to our customers, we are proud to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and engineering.
LM SPACE: WHAT WE'RE DOING
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire and integrate our capabilities to transform the future. And we're reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
THE WORK
Lockheed Martin is seeking a talented level 2 Satellite Missions Engineer with a Secret clearance to work from our Colorado Springs, CO location.
Inter-Range Operations Number (IRON) Database: Database the Air Force Satellite Communication Network (AFSCN) utilizes to configure ground station equipment for all Remote Tracking Stations across the world to support Satellite and Launch Vehicle communication. The IRON database is the first step in connecting the satellite operator on the ground with the vehicle in space.
Accuracy is our mission and we work as a team to support each other in making the goal of 100% accuracy in every IRON Database delivery. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring the satellite program requirements are accurately reflected in a request form, entering the requests into the AFSCN IRON Management System (AIMS) tool, validating AIMS output, testing team's work in the Integrated SCN Test Bed (ITB) facility, and work with RTS personnel to run a functional check out of the IRON Database.
You will support up to 12 routine IRON databases a year and up to 12 out-of-cycle IRON databases with the possibility of having to support a 48 hour quick turn release that can include lab testing at the ITB. ITB contains legacy RTS Remote Tracking Station and newer RBC Remote Tracking Station equipment. Candidate will be provided on the job training in a team environment and provided procedures in order to learn how to conduct validation testing.
Responsibilities for the lab will include running testing independently which includes generating test plan checklists used in the lab, generating ARTS and RBC release files, and loading the IRON database onto the ARTS and RBC systems for lab testing.
Additionally, configuring ARTS for testing, configuring RBC for testing, conducting testing on both systems, and returning both lab setup back to normal configuration. You will be part of the team that maintains the RTS All Parameter IRON Database (RAPID) tool, which is a user friendly tool developed to provide an accurate representation of the IRON Database contents.
WHY JOIN US
Opportunity for Impact: Join a team that is at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace and defense industry and make a significant impact on the success of our organization.
Professional Development: Take advantage of unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement within LM, with access to world-class training and development programs.
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry who share your passion for excellence and who are committed to supporting each other's success.
Competitive Benefits: LM employees play an active role in strengthening the quality of life where we live and work by volunteering more than 850,000 hours annually. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:
Medical
Dental
401k
Paid time off
Work/life balance
Career development
Mentorship opportunities
We care about our employees and offer a generous benefits package: 401, PTO, and work/life balance & more.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912