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Space Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Core Government Services Corporation

The Space Operations Scenario Writer develops and integrates realistic Space and Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS) storylines, Master Scenario Event List (MSEL) injects, and related products in support ...

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$9

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$49

How much do space operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for space operations in the United States is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.64 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.
More about Space Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Space Operations jobs? Cities with the most Space Operations job openings:
What states have the most Space Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Operations jobs are:
Space Operations jobs near you
Space Operations Center Manager

Space Operations Center Manager

KBR, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 355 rated engineering

Job description

Title:
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 intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Why Join Us?
  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

This is a contingent position based upon contract award
KBR is seeking a highly motivated and career-oriented Space Operations Center Manager to join our team. As the Space Operations Center Manager, you will direct operations and integration activities at the Space Operations Center to synchronize contractor efforts across all technical requirements and do so in coordination with the manager of the partner Space Operations Center.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Mission Monitoring & Real-Time Operations
    • Maintain continuous oversight of satellite and ground system operational status.
    • Ensure timely detection of mission impacts, anomalies, or system degradations.
    • Coordinate immediate triage and direct the response to mission-impacting events.
  • Incident & Crisis Management
    • Serve as first-line operational authority during system incidents
    • Lead incident response teams and coordinate with engineering, security, and intel partners.
    • Provide operational recommendations to senior leadership during time-sensitive events.
  • Command, Control, & Communications (C3) Oversight
    • Ensure reliable communications flow between organization, mission partners, and national intelligence customers.
    • Validate reporting, alerts, and operational updates are accurate and timely.
    • Oversee operational message traffic, executive notifications, and situational reporting.
  • Leadership & Workforce Management
    • Lead a 24/7 operations shift workforce consisting of operators, analysts, and technical specialists.
    • Train, certify, and evaluate operations personnel for mission readiness.
    • Establish performance standards, workflow processes, and knowledge management practices.
  • Coordination with mission partners
  • Reporting & Executive Communication
    • Provide senior leadership with accurate, timely operational summaries and incident reports.
    • Deliver briefs, mission health updates, and significant activity summaries.
    • Ensure reporting supports national-level situational awareness.

Required Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree plus 11 years of relevant space domain awareness / operations experience with demonstrated expertise or bachelor's degree with 12 years of relevant experience with demonstrated experience with demonstrated expertise or No Degree with 14 years of relevant experience with demonstrated experience with demonstrated expertise
  • 2 years relevant operations floor experience
  • 7 years combined experience in space enterprise operations, including working knowledge of systems integration, dependencies and data flows
  • Active TS/SCI with Poly required to be considered
  • Familiarity with DOD satellite operations
  • Be able to perform contract tasks independently and lead teams
  • Strong oral and written communications skills

Additional Compensation:
KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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