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Space Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prevailance, Inc.

Space Operations Instructor

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$57K - $75K/yr

Space Operations Fundamentals * Orbital Warfare * Space Electronic Warfare * Space Domain Awareness (SDA) * Space Battle Management / Command and Control (SBM/C2) * Satellite Communications ...

Peraton

Space Operations Controller

Fort Irwin, CA · On-site

Responsibilities We are seeking a Space Operations Controller to join our team at the Fort Irwin Complex in California to support our Space Communications Network Services (DSN) Contract with NASA.

Peraton

Space Operations Controller

Fort Irwin, CA · On-site

Responsibilities We are seeking a Space Operations Controller to join our team at the Fort Irwin Complex in California to support our Space Communications Network Services (DSN) Contract with NASA.

Peraton

Space Operations Controller

Fort Irwin, CA

Responsibilities We are seeking a Space Operations Controller to join our team at the Fort Irwin Complex in California to support our Space Communications Network Services (DSN) Contract with NASA.

Prevailance

Space Operations Instructor

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$57K - $75K/yr

Space Operations Fundamentals * Orbital Warfare * Space Electronic Warfare * Space Domain Awareness (SDA) * Space Battle Management / Command and Control (SBM/C2) * Satellite Communications ...

SAIC

Space Operations Integrator

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Description SAIC's Horizon 2 program is seeking your, our latest Space Operations Integrator to serve as a subject matter expert in support to the U.S. Space Force (USSF) in developing and deploying ...

Prevailance

Space Operations Instructor

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$57K - $75K/yr

Space Operations Fundamentals * Orbital Warfare * Space Electronic Warfare * Space Domain Awareness (SDA) * Space Battle Management / Command and Control (SBM/C2) * Satellite Communications ...

SAIC

Space Operations Integrator

El Segundo, CA

$200K - $240K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC's Horizon 2 program is seeking your, our latest Space Operations Integrator to serve as a subject matter expert in support to the U.S. Space Force (USSF) in developing ...

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Space Operations information

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$9

$23

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How much do space operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for space operations in California is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Space Operations, you need a strong background in engineering, physics, or a related STEM field, often complemented by a relevant degree and specialized training. Familiarity with satellite communications, mission control software, and space systems such as telemetry and tracking is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These qualifications and skills ensure safe, efficient mission execution and rapid response to the dynamic challenges of space environments.

What are space operations?

Space operations refer to the activities involved in planning, managing, and executing missions in space. This includes satellite deployment, spacecraft navigation, mission control, communication with space vehicles, and monitoring space environments. Professionals in space operations work with advanced technology to ensure the safety and success of space missions, whether they're for scientific research, defense, or commercial purposes. These roles are critical in supporting astronauts, maintaining satellite networks, and advancing our exploration of outer space.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Space Operations?

Professionals in Space Operations often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, managing tight launch schedules, and ensuring strict compliance with safety protocols. The fast-paced, high-stakes environment requires attention to detail and the ability to quickly adapt to changing mission parameters or unexpected technical issues. Additionally, collaboration with engineers, mission planners, and external agencies is frequent, making strong communication skills and teamwork essential for success.

What is the difference between Space Operations vs Satellite Operations?

AspectSpace OperationsSatellite Operations
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, certifications in aerospace or space systemsEngineering or technical degrees, satellite-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentMission control centers, space agencies, aerospace companiesGround stations, satellite control centers, aerospace firms
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, SpaceX, Boeing, military space programsCommercial satellite providers, telecom companies, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in space missions, mission planningManaging satellite health, orbit adjustments, data collection

Space Operations involves managing and executing space missions, including planning, launch, and mission control. Satellite Operations focuses on maintaining and controlling satellites once in orbit, ensuring their proper function. While both roles require aerospace knowledge and work in related environments, Space Operations covers broader mission activities, whereas Satellite Operations specializes in satellite health and orbit management.

What are popular job titles related to Space Operations jobs in California? For Space Operations jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Space Operations jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Space Operations jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Space Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Space Operations job openings:
Space Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Operations job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,581 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Space Operations Exercise Planner

Space Operations Exercise Planner

Prevailance

Lompoc, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description:

This position is contingent upon contract award. Multiple positions available.

The Space Operations Exercise Planner serves as the subject matter expert (SME) and primary architect for all live, virtual and constructive exercise events, practical scenarios, and performance-based assessments. This position is responsible for the full life-cycle of exercise design—from concept development and scenario scripting through execution, assessment, and after-action review. The designer works in close coordination with curriculum developers, instructors, and operational units to ensure exercises are current, operationally relevant, and aligned with Space Force training standards.


Tasks

Exercise Design and Development

  • Design, develop, and revise space operations capstone level exercises in support of 9 mission areas: Orbital Warfare, Space Electromagnetic Warfare, Cyber Warfare, Satellite Communications (SATCOM), Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR), Missile Warning/Missile Defense, C2-CSpOC, C2-NSDC, and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)
  • Create operationally realistic scenario injects, Master Scenario Events Lists (MSELs), and exercise control documentation
  • Develop performance measurement tools including scenario-based assessments, grading rubrics, and standards checklists tied to course learning objectives
  • Integrate current tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) and lessons learned from operational space units to ensure exercise fidelity and relevance
  • Design exercises compatible with virtual, constructive, and live training environments as applicable
  • Troubleshoot real-time exercise issues and adapt scenario injects as needed to achieve training objectives

Administration and Coordination

  • Incorporate lessons learned from operational space units, exercise programs and allied/partner training events.
  • Maintain all exercise documentation in the curriculum management system in accordance with training standards.
Requirements:

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of five (5) years in U.S. military Space Operations as military member or civilian
  • Deep understanding of space domain operations, including satellite communications, space surveillance, and space-based sensors
  • Knowledge of Space Doctrine Publication (SDP) 5-0 and Joint Planning Process (JPP) integration for space missions
  • Ability to integrate space capabilities into the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP) and Exercise Life Cycle
  • Demonstrated experience with simulation control injects and TTPs to replicate realistic space environments
  • Knowledge of exercise design and control methodologies including MSEL development, White Cell operations, and after-action review processes
  • Knowledge of data analysis and requirements development for space-based training scenarios
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct problem-solving and adaptability to dynamic space operational environments
  • Knowledge of Incident response planning for space domain contingencies
  • Ability to analyze complex technical content and translate it into clear, sequenced instruction aligned to performance objectives.
  • Skill in writing, editing, and maintaining curriculum documentation to Air Force/Space Force instructional systems design standards.
  • Ability to evaluate student performance objectively, provide constructive feedback, and identify remediation requirements.

Desired Qualifications

  • Knowledge, Skills, and Ability to design space operations in games focused contested environments
  • Knowledge, Skills, and Ability to design accurate, but playable, games focused on space systems
  • Operational experience in a deployed or joint environment integrating space capabilities with ground and air forces

Education Requirements

  • Bachelors degree in STEM, Space, Intelligence Studies, International Relations, Global Security, or National Security Studies

Clearance Level: TS/SCI clearance eligibility is required