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Satellite Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Telesat

Antenna and UT System Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers ...

Telesat

Antenna and UT System Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers ...

Telesat

Antenna and UT System Engineer

Bethesda, MD

TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers ...

Telesat

Account Executive, Telco

Bethesda, MD · On-site

TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers ...

Leidos

Satellite Comm SME

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Very proficient with operating and installing satellite modems, associated cables, and interconnects; Up Converters, Redundancy Switch; Down Converters, HPAs, Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs), LNB;

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How much do satellite operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 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.

How much do satellite operators make?

Satellite operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized environments can lead to higher salaries.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A satellite operator typically earns less than $10,000 per month, but high-paying roles in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach or exceed that income level without a degree. These jobs often require strong skills, experience, and sometimes certifications, but not necessarily formal higher education.

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 more common in executive roles, specialized engineers, or business owners in the aerospace industry. High-paying positions in this field often require advanced technical skills, certifications, and extensive experience. Most satellite-related roles offer salaries below this threshold, with top executives or entrepreneurs reaching higher income levels.
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Satellite Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Satellite Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Full Time, 89% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Antenna and UT System Engineer

Telesat

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers for over 55 years. Backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, reliability and industry-leading customer service, Telesat has grown to be one of the largest and most successful global satellite operators.
Telesat Lightspeed, our revolutionary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, scheduled to begin service in 2027, will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise and Government users by delivering a combination of high capacity, security, resiliency and affordability with ultra-low latency and fiber-like speeds. Telesat is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and has offices and facilities around the world.
The company's state-of-the-art Satellite fleet consists of 12 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one LEO 3 demonstration satellite. For more information, follow Telesat on X and LinkedIn or visit www.telesat.com
The successful candidate will bring engineering expertise in the design and deployment of satellite antennas and user terminals (UTs) for the Telesat Lightspeed Constellation network, supporting both fixed and mobile applications. This role involves complete analysis of terminal antenna options, modem integration, and UT architecture to provide technical inputs for deployment and portfolio development. The candidate will also lead technical relationships with antenna suppliers and participate in design reviews and validation tests.
Resource is required to work onsite from our Bethesda office four (4) days weekly.
Main Responsibilities
  • Develop technical requirements for LEO Constellation UT antenna technology, including modem integration and antenna architecture
  • Support the definition of UT antenna and modem requirements, evaluate vendor developed technologies
  • Interface with and evaluate vendor-proposed terminal designs for performance, reliability, manufacturability, and review integration strategies between antennas and modems for future UT designs
  • Recommend modifications or new UT designs to achieve cost, performance, and reliability targets
  • Identify tests to validate system assumptions with antenna and UT prototypes
  • Help develop supporting documentation, test requirements and compliance matrix for UT Type Approval process
  • Lead evaluation of antenna technologies, including electronically steerable antennas (ESAs) and novel ESA technologies
  • Stay current with the latest satellite, 5G antenna design technologies, and open AMIP and open BMIP standards
  • Perform other duties as required

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or similar - required
    Master's in Engineering - required
  • PhD with research on electronically steerable antenna design - highly preferred
  • Minimum 10 years in satellite antenna, terminal, and/or satellite system design
  • Experience with ESA design and modem integration is a strong plus
  • Deployment of ESA designed antennas is a strong plus

Specialized Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Simulation, design, and testing of electronically steerable antennas for satellite communication
  • Knowledge of flat panel antenna integration approaches with variety of modem technologies
  • Familiarity with standardized protocols for antenna control and modem interoperability and communication
  • Expertise in Ka-band antenna technologies for mobile land, aeronautical, maritime, and fixed applications
  • Understanding of satellite modems, hub technology, and RF equipment
  • Strong foundation in electromagnetism and array antenna architecture
  • Experience with RFIC selection, beamforming, and manufacturing processes for array antennas
  • Knowledge of antenna control techniques for beam steering and beam shape control
  • Ability to make design trade-offs between performance, cost, and power consumption
  • Experience working with suppliers and vendors of antenna and modem technologies
  • Fluent in English, written and oral

Working Conditions
  • Resource is required to be in office four (4) days weekly
  • Occasional international travel is required in this role
  • Must qualify for government clearance

At Telesat, we take pride in being an equal opportunity employer that values equality in the workplace. We are committed to providing the best candidate experience possible including any required accommodations at every stage of our interview process. All qualified applicants that have been selected for an interview that require accommodations, are advised to inform the Telesat Talent team accordingly. We will work with you to meet your needs. All accommodation information provided will be treated as confidential.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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