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Satellite System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers ... Monitor system health and report anomalies, working with the engineering team to safely resolve ...

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Satellite System Operator information

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$21K

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How much do satellite system operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for satellite system 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 is a satellite system operator?

Satellite System Operators are professionals responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining satellite systems that support communication, navigation, or data transmission. They work in ground control stations to ensure satellites are functioning correctly, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with engineers to optimize satellite performance. Their duties may include tracking satellite orbits, performing system diagnostics, and implementing software updates. Satellite System Operators play a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted satellite services for industries such as telecommunications, defense, and weather forecasting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a satellite system operator?

To thrive as a Satellite System Operator, you need a solid understanding of satellite communications, signal processing, and computer networking, typically supported by a degree in engineering, telecommunications, or a related field. Familiarity with satellite control systems, telemetry software, and certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or relevant government clearances are commonly required. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators quickly respond to anomalies and coordinate with technical teams. These skills are crucial to maintain operational integrity, ensure uninterrupted satellite functionality, and support mission-critical objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by satellite system operators, and how can they be addressed?

Satellite System Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining system reliability during unexpected technical issues, managing communication link disruptions, and keeping pace with rapidly changing technology. To address these, operators need to develop strong troubleshooting skills, stay updated on the latest satellite technologies, and follow established protocols for incident response. Collaboration with engineering teams and continual training are also essential in overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth satellite operations.

What is the difference between Satellite System Operator vs Satellite Communications Technician?

AspectSatellite System OperatorSatellite Communications Technician
CredentialsFCC licensing, technical certificationsFCC licensing, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentControl centers, remote sitesField sites, installation environments
Employer & IndustryTelecom, satellite service providersTelecom, satellite installation companies
Job FocusOperating and monitoring satellite systemsInstalling, repairing, maintaining satellite equipment

While both roles require FCC licensing and technical skills, Satellite System Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring satellite systems within control centers. In contrast, Satellite Communications Technicians are more involved in fieldwork, installing and repairing satellite equipment. Both roles are essential in the satellite industry but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

More about Satellite System Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Satellite System Operator jobs?

For Satellite System Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Satellite System Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Senior Specialist, Systems Engineer - Satellite Systems Operator

Palm Bay, FL • On-site

Harris Corporation
Accounting Services • 1 - 5K employees

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Harris Computer rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 247 rated software companies


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.
L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.
Job Title: Senior Specialist, Systems Engineer - Satellite Systems Operator (CI Poly)
Job Code: 43439
Job Location: Palm Bay, Florida
Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every Other Friday Off!)
Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Satellite System Operator to support satellite Command and Control (C2), mission operations, ground system configuration, and operator training activities. The successful candidate will perform real-time spacecraft operations while supporting the configuration, validation, execution, and sustainment of satellite and ground system resources.
This position requires hands-on experience with satellite Command and Control operations, preferably involving the Satellite Control Network (SCN), and demonstrated experience configuring ground system resources in support of satellite contacts and mission execution. The Satellite System Operator will work in a dynamic operational environment requiring coordination across engineering, flight dynamics, payload, ground station, and other mission partners.
The operator will conduct and instruct satellite operations across the mission lifecycle, including Launch and Early Operations (LEOPS), routine on-orbit operations, anomaly response, spacecraft recovery, and contingency operations. The position requires the ability to analyze real-time mission data, execute authorized spacecraft commands, identify and troubleshoot anomalous conditions, and maintain accurate operational documentation.
The successful candidate must also be capable of translating operational experience into effective instruction. The operator will support the development, delivery, and refinement of training materials, procedures, and operational documentation as mission capabilities and demonstration events evolve.
Essential Functions:
Demonstrated experience conducting pre-pass, live-pass, and post-pass operations in support of scheduled satellite contacts.
Experience issuing spacecraft commands, monitoring command execution, and performing basic telemetry to assess spacecraft health and status.
Demonstrated experience identifying, troubleshooting, documenting, and escalating spacecraft or ground-system anomalies, alarms, degradation, and off-nominal conditions.
Experience performing real-time data analysis and troubleshooting in a time-sensitive satellite operations environment.
Experience with mission planning and scheduling, including coordination of satellite contacts, ground resources, and operational activities.
Demonstrated ability to configure, validate, and verify the operational readiness of mission control systems, ground resources, and communications infrastructure.
Experience maintaining accurate operational logs, pass reports, mission records, and shift turnover documentation.
Demonstrated ability to multitask and maintain situational awareness during real-time operations, including simultaneous monitoring of spacecraft telemetry, ground-system status, mission timelines, and operational communications.
Ability to develop, revise, and maintain technical procedures, checklists, training materials, and operational documentation based on mission changes, lessons learned, and demonstration events.
Ability to communicate technical and operational information clearly to mission partners, leadership, engineering personnel, and satellite operators.
Ability to work independently and as part of an integrated operations team in a multi-agency and mission-partner environment.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree and minimum 6 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 10 years of prior related experience.
Top Secret/SCI with CI Poly required.
Minimum 3 years of experience supporting Launch and Early Operations (LEOPS), space operations, satellite operations, or a related mission environment.
Minimum 3 years of experience with spacecraft command authorization, configuration management (spacecraft and ground system), and mission assurance processes.
Preferred Additional Skills:
Direct operational experience with the Satellite Control Network (SCN).
Previous experience serving as a satellite operations instructor, evaluator, or trainer.
Experience developing or updating operator training materials, mission procedures, checklists, and technical documentation.
Experience supporting satellite demonstrations, tests, exercise, or mission rehearsal events.
Experience coordinating satellite operations across multiple government agencies, mission partners, ground stations, or operational organizations.
Experience supporting spacecraft anomaly resolution, recovery operations, safe-state operations, and other off-nominal mission conditions.
Experience integrating changes to spacecraft, mission control, or ground-system configurations into existing operational procedures and training.
In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Florida is $92,500 - $171,500.00. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
#LI-ZB1
L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.
Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.
L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish . For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish .

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About Harris Computer Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Harris Computer Systems, based in Ottawa, ON, CA, is an established player in the field of public sector software technology. Since its inception in 1976, the company has been striving to make clients' operations more efficient through reliable, practical, and flexible software solutions. Its extensive portfolio primarily serves utility, healthcare, public sector, and educational institutions, contributing to the betterment of public services through technology. Harris strongly believes in the value of forward-thinking technology and the power it has to drive progress for the public sector. This methodology is entirely in line with their mission to ensure customer success by providing reliable, practical, and robust software solutions.

Industry

Accounting services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Ottawa, ON, CA

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