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Space Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Space Operations Center Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Space Operations Center Manager Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR

Space Operations Center Manager

Springfield, VA · On-site

Space Operations Center Manager Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$71K - $96K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Space Protection Operations Engineer to join the Air Force, Space, and Intelligence Business Group providing systems engineering and technical advisory ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Space Protection Operations Engineer to join the Air Force, Space, and Intelligence Business Group providing systems engineering and technical advisory ...

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Space Operations information

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$23

$48

How much do space operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for space operations in Virginia is $23.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $27.40 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 can you do with a space operations degree?

A space operations degree prepares individuals for careers managing satellite systems, spacecraft, and ground control operations. Roles include satellite operator, mission planner, or space systems analyst, often requiring knowledge of aerospace engineering, programming, and specialized tools like mission control software. These positions typically involve working in government agencies, private aerospace companies, or research institutions and may require security clearances or certifications.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In space operations, high-paying roles such as senior aerospace engineers, satellite program managers, and space systems directors can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require specialized technical skills, security clearances, and management expertise within government agencies or private aerospace companies.

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

In space operations, roles such as satellite communications technicians or remote mission planners can sometimes earn around $10,000 per month, especially with specialized skills and experience. These jobs often require technical knowledge, certifications, and familiarity with space systems or related technology but may not always require a traditional college degree.

How much do space operations make?

Salaries for space operations professionals vary based on experience, education, and location, but entry-level positions typically start around $60,000 annually. Experienced specialists or managers can earn over $120,000 per year, especially with advanced skills in satellite systems, mission planning, or aerospace engineering.
What are popular job titles related to Space Operations jobs in Virginia? For Space Operations jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Space Operations jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Space Operations jobs in Virginia are:
Space Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Operations job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,808 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
STO Operations / Space Operations Planner

STO Operations / Space Operations Planner

Stellar Solutions

Springfield, VA

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

STO Operations / Space Operations Planner
Job Locations US-VA-Springfield
ID 2026-1963
Category Systems Engineer
Type Full-Time
Overview

Stellar Solutions, a nationally recognized "Great Place To Work", has exciting opportunities providing engineering solutions for innovative new-entrant space companies, established space systems manufacturers, commercial space operators and service providers, and other industry stakeholders including investors.

Stellar Solutions is seeking an experienced STO Operations / Space Operations Planner to support Special Technical Operations (STO) activities in a highly dynamic national security environment. In this role, you will support operational planning, systems integration, mission coordination, and tactical development activities across joint and space operations environments. You will work closely with acquisition offices, operational stakeholders, and mission partners to support critical planning, integration, and deconfliction efforts in support of mission success.

Role/Responsibilities/Qualifications

In this role, you will:

    Prepare briefings, point papers, reports, and other products for information and decision-making purposes
  • Provide operational feedback to Acquisition Offices regarding customer requirements, expectations, and system shortfalls
  • Support operational integration of relevant system capabilities into service architectures
  • Coordinate with applicable stakeholders to deconflict offensive planning activities and operational scenarios
  • Provide operational input supporting operational designs, technical specifications, and coordination activities
  • Support the development of Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs), as well as plans for war-games and exercises
  • Develop and implement Weapons and Tactics policy and guidance
  • Prepare and update operational procedures and checklists
  • Support mission planning and operational coordination activities across joint and space operations environments

Required Qualifications:

  • Graduate Degree with a minimum of 3 years of related experience; OR Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of 5 years of related experience; OR no degree with a minimum of 9 years of related experience
  • Experience supporting Integrated Joint Special Technical Operations (STO) and associated processes
  • Space operations experience
  • Project management experience
  • Experience supporting joint operational planning activities
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including briefing senior leadership
  • Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, mission-focused environments
  • Requires U.S. Citizenship
  • Requires current TS/SCI clearance
  • Requires current CI Polygraph

Desired Qualifications:

  • Graduate of Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) certification program
  • Joint Staff or Combatant Command planner experience
  • Proficiency with Joint Planning processes
  • Familiarity with Department of Defense and National space systems and associated products/services
  • Familiarity with space operations, space environment, and command and control concepts
  • Familiarity with Tasking, Collection, Processing, Exploitation, and Dissemination (TCPED) concepts
  • Understanding of basic orbital mechanics
Deliverable(s)

This position offers the opportunity to support highly visible national security and space operations missions at the operational and strategic level. You will directly contribute to mission planning, operational integration, and tactical development efforts supporting advanced space and joint operational capabilities in a collaborative mission-focused environment.

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