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Satellite Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

About Starfish Space Starfish Space provides satellite servicing missions with its Otter servicing ... In this role, you will be on console, operating vehicles directly, uploading commands and looking ...

Satellite Operations Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

About Starfish Space Starfish Space provides satellite servicing missions with its Otter servicing ... In this role, you will be on console, operating vehicles directly, uploading commands and looking ...

New

Satellite Systems Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Previous experience designing and/or operating space systems * Programming experience in Python * Working knowledge of systems engineering * Working knowledge of satellite components and technologies ...

New

Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of ... Comfort operating in ambiguous, fast-moving environments * Ownership mindset with a willingness to ...

... operating in locations without reliable connectivity. We are seeking a Senior Technical Program ... You will develop integrated plans for satellite development, drive execution, work at the ...

... operating in locations without reliable connectivity. We are seeking a Senior Technical Program ... You will develop integrated plans for satellite development, drive execution, work at the ...

... operating in locations without reliable connectivity. We are seeking a Senior Technical Program ... You will develop integrated plans for satellite development, drive execution, work at the ...

... organizations operating in locations without reliable connectivity. We are looking for an ... As Amazon Leo Satellite Test Engineer you will work with multiple engineering and manufacturing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Satellite Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$23.9K

$84.2K

$141.7K

How much do satellite operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite operator in Seattle, WA is $84,208.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $98,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Satellite Operator jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Satellite Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Satellite Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Satellite Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Satellite Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,208 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Satellite Operations Engineer

Voiceflow

Tukwila, WA • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Starfish Space

Starfish Space provides satellite servicing missions with its Otter servicing vehicle, including life extension missions for geostationary satellites and disposal missions for low Earth orbit satellites. Founded in 2019, Starfish has raised over $150M in venture capital funding and built a team of engineers with experience spanning satellite guidance, navigation, control, and autonomous robotics. Starfish has launched several missions to-date, and is focused on delivering Otter satellite servicing missions for SES, the U.S. Space Force, the Space Development Agency, NASA, and others.

Position Description

Satellite servicing missions require spacecraft capable of autonomous, robotic operations in orbit. To fulfill our mission, Starfish has developed the Otter satellite servicing vehicle, which relies on autonomous software technologies to conduct rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking in orbit. We are looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to help Starfish become excellent and efficient at operating satellites. In this role, you will be on console, operating vehicles directly, uploading commands and looking at telemetry. Additionally, you will also build software to improve our operations and help us scale effectively.

Qualifications
  • Must be a US person (citizen or permanent resident)
  • Willing to work from Tukwila, Washington
  • Software development education or experience
  • Capable of working in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment
Desired Experience
  • 0+ years of relevant experience
  • B.S. degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or similar field
  • Working knowledge of Python and C++
  • Previous experience with numerical simulations
ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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