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Satellite Tracking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Satellite Tracking information

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How much do satellite tracking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for satellite tracking in California is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a satellite tracking?

A Satellite Tracking job involves monitoring and maintaining communication with satellites to ensure their proper operation. Professionals in this role use ground-based systems to track satellite positions, analyze telemetry data, and troubleshoot any issues. They work with engineers and mission controllers to adjust satellite orbits, manage data transmissions, and ensure continuous functionality. This job requires knowledge of orbital mechanics, radio communications, and specialized tracking software. It is essential for space agencies, defense organizations, and private aerospace companies.

What is a typical work environment like for satellite tracking professionals?

Satellite Tracking professionals typically work in control centers, research institutions, or specialized engineering teams, often collaborating closely with mission planners, engineers, and data analysts. The environment can involve shift work to ensure 24/7 satellite monitoring, especially in organizations managing multiple satellites or international projects. Daily tasks include real-time monitoring, maintaining ground station equipment, troubleshooting signal issues, and generating technical reports. There is regular teamwork involved, as well as opportunities to contribute to mission planning and system improvements. Successful professionals in this field often advance into mission operations management, systems engineering, or related aerospace roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in satellite tracking, and why are they important?

To excel in Satellite Tracking, candidates need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, often with a relevant degree in aerospace engineering or similar fields. Experience with tracking software, ground station systems, radio frequency technologies, and certifications in satellite operations are highly valuable. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting data and coordinating with cross-functional teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate tracking, timely responses, and maintaining mission-critical satellite operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Tracking jobs in California?

The most popular types of Satellite Tracking jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Satellite Tracking job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,194 per year, or $16 per hour.

Senior Hardware Engineer, Navigation

Relativity Space

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$116K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Relativity Space rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

About the Team: 

The Avionics team is responsible for the full lifecycle of Terran R's nervous system, designing, building, testing, installing, and operating the hardware that connects and controls every major electrical system on the vehicle and ground. The team leverages close partnership between avionics design, manufacturing, and test to enable rapid iteration and feedback loops. Engineers are deeply embedded into other functions within Relativity, working closely with propulsion, GNC, fluids, and stage engineering teams to ensure seamless integration and operation. Now is a unique time to join: you'll get to help shape Terran R's fundamental avionics architecture and be given a high degree of ownership on components that will fly. 

About the Role: 

In this role you will be responsible for owning the development, test and integration of navigation system avionics used within the Terran R launch vehicle. You will work with cross-functional partner teams across the company, conducting architectural trades, developing acceptance and qualification test plans, while being responsible for critical sensory infrastructure allowing for the landing, recovery, and reuse of the vehicle booster stage. A strong candidate for the role will have a deep technical background in navigation system electronics and experience integrating GNSS receiver systems and inertial measurement sensors into high-dynamic environments, while serving as a subject matter expert on the navigation sensor suite and its respective operational needs. 

About You: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field 
  • 5+ years of experience in electronics designed for harsh environments and mission-critical applications such as launch vehicles, spacecraft, aircraft, or robotics 
  • In-depth knowledge of GNSS systems, including PVT calculation, satellite tracking/acquisition, and error sources 
  • Solid understanding of IMUs, including gyroscopes and accelerometers, their operating principles, error characteristics, and integration with other navigation sensors 
  • Experience with hardware bring-up, validation, debugging, and data analysis 
  • Experience working with highly cross-functional teams (GNC, mechanical, electrical, software, etc.) to develop integrated electronics solutions 

 Nice to haves, but not required: 

  • A deep understanding of navigation principles and mixed signal PCBA design 
  • Experience in aerospace, automotive, defense or similar industries where precise navigation is critical 
  • Experience in combining data from various navigation sensors (GPS, IMU, magnetometers, altimeters, LiDAR, etc.) to achieve robust and accurate navigation solutions 
  • Experience with high-speed serial interfaces (SPI, PCIe, Ethernet, etc.); memory interfaces; design for SoCs, microcontrollers, and microprocessors 

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