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Space Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/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 ...

VTG

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$130K - $197K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Space Protection Operations Engineer to join the Air Force, Space, and Intelligence Business Groupproviding systems engineering and technical advisory services to a rapidly ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/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

$160K - $200K/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 · On-site

$120K - $160K/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 ...

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How much do space operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for space operations in Washington is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in space operations?

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 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.

How much do space operations make?

Space operations professionals typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific roles such as satellite controllers or mission planners. Higher salaries are common for those with advanced certifications or specialized skills in satellite systems, mission analysis, or aerospace engineering.

What jobs can you get with a space operations degree?

A space operations degree prepares individuals for roles such as satellite operations specialist, mission planner, space systems analyst, and space operations engineer. These jobs typically involve managing satellite systems, coordinating space missions, and working with aerospace technology, often requiring knowledge of orbital mechanics, communication systems, and relevant certifications. Employment can be found in government agencies, private aerospace companies, and defense contractors.

What are popular job titles related to Space Operations jobs in Washington?

For Space Operations jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Space Operations jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Space Operations jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Space Operations jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Space Operations job openings:

Space Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,901 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Space Protection Operations Engineer

SAIC

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2612920
Location: Fort Belvoir, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-07-21
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 25% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: 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 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. This position may require weekly travel to other locations in the Washington, DC metro area.
The Space Protection Operations Engineer will serve as the subject matter expert (SME) and System Program Office (SPO) representative coordinating with end user operators, the developer, and other stakeholders for the deployment of new protection capabilities into space operations. The Space Protection Operations Engineer is the SPO's on-site agent for user-engagement with operators of a space protection system and will collaborate with site users and SMEs within the SPO home office to support system testing, transition to operations planning, user/operator training, Operations and Maintenance (O&M) planning and Deficiency Report (DR) management, and be the focal point for representing SPO equities to the site's 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.
Qualifications
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. Extensive experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
Active Top Secret/SCI clearance with Poly.
Experience in Intel Community or Department of War space acquisitions or mission operations.
Experience deploying and sustaining software within a 24/7 operations center or similar environment.
Knowledge of agile software development principles.
Desired:
Experience with DevOps, including continuous integration and continuous delivery/deployment (CI/CD).
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.
Knowledge of the fundamentals of orbital mechanics and orbit determination.
Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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