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Space Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

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 services to a ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$71K - $96K/yr

The Space Protection Operations Engineer will serve as the subject matter expert (SME) and System Program Office (SPO) representative coordinating with the development contractor and stakeholders ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA

$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 ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

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 services to a ...

Peraton

Intelligence Planner

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities As a Space Operations Planner supporting a critical national security space warfighting mission, you will contribute to planning efforts that help translate strategic objectives into ...

Peraton

Operations Lead

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

In this role, you'll directly contribute to safeguarding space assets, developing advanced operational concepts, and enabling informed decision-making in a rapidly evolving threat environment.

Peraton

Operations Lead

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

In this role, you'll directly contribute to safeguarding space assets, developing advanced operational concepts, and enabling informed decision-making in a rapidly evolving threat environment.

Peraton

Operations Lead

Fort Belvoir, VA

In this role, you'll directly contribute to safeguarding space assets, developing advanced operational concepts, and enabling informed decision-making in a rapidly evolving threat environment.

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Space Operations information

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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.
Space Protection Operations Engineer

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 204 rated it services

Job 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 services to a rapidly expanding Government Intelligence Community (IC) customer. The customer is developing the next generation of space and ground systems, architectures, and hardware and software solutions.

The Space Protection Operations Engineer will serve as the subject matter expert (SME) and System Program Office (SPO) representative coordinating with the development contractor and stakeholders (including end user operators) for deployment of new protection capabilities into space operations. The Space Protection Operations Engineer collaborates within a team of mission-related SMEs to support system testing, propel transition to operations planning, facilitate user/operator training, participate in Operations and Maintenance (O&M) planning and Deficiency Report (DR) management, and the SPO focal point for coordinating with Operations stakeholders.

The Space Protection Operations Engineer responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Provides space protection operations mission expertise to acquisition managers and software engineers in the development of tools that provide operators Indications and Warning against Space threats
  • Elicits system capability needs and user interface/experience (UI/UX) preferences from operational users
  • Collaborates with software developers to inform/guide mission application enhancements
  • Manages the transition of new capabilities and software deliveries to operations
  • Leads the review and coordination of system documentation and training materials
  • Evaluates developer solutions, guides software deployment activities, and assesses software patches/fixes
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

Required:

  • Bachelor's and 9 or more years of experience; master's and 7 or more years of experience; PhD and 4 or more years of experience
  • Active Top Secret/SCI clearance with Poly
  • Experience in space mission operations
  • Experience transitioning new capabilities/software deployments to operations in a 24/7 operations center and managing mission operations opportunities, challenges, and risks
  • Knowledge of agile software development principles

Desired:

  • Experience supporting the NRO
  • Experience in Space Protection operations and familiarity with protection technologies
  • Experience authoring operator-related or software deployment documentation
  • Experience in Space system testing, simulation, and modeling environments
  • Familiarity with transitioning software into operations within IC (preferably NRO) or DoW
  • Knowledge of the fundamentals of orbital mechanics and orbit determination

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