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Space Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BAE Systems

Space Operations Spec I

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$53.12K - $90.31K/yr

Seeking a Space Operations Specialist (Systems Engineer) for satellite Operations and Maintenance (O&M) positions. This role provides engineering support in a dynamic environment to ensure seamless ...

BAE Systems

Space Operations Spec II

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$64.94K - $110.39K/yr

Seeking a Space Operations Specialist (Systems Engineer) for satellite Operations and Maintenance (O&M) positions. This role provides engineering support in a dynamic environment to ensure seamless ...

BAE Systems

Space Operations Spec Sr

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$79.37K - $134.93K/yr

Seeking a Space Operations Specialist (Systems Engineer) for satellite Operations and Maintenance (O&M) positions. This role provides engineering support in a dynamic environment to ensure seamless ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$78.60K - $106.30K/yr

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 ...

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How much do space operations jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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.

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
Infographic showing various Space Operations job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,239 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Space Operations Spec I

Space Operations Spec I

BAE Systems

Las Cruces, NM • On-site

$53.12K - $90.31K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

Job Description
Seeking a Space Operations Specialist (Systems Engineer) for satellite Operations and Maintenance (O&M) positions. This role provides engineering support in a dynamic environment to ensure seamless execution of critical software and hardware systems. The selected candidate will join a skilled O&M team working in a 24/7 operations environment. The O&M team is responsible for all aspects of Operations Planning and Command and Control, including monitoring day-to-day activities as well as identifying and solving challenging problems as they occur. After completion of comprehensive on-the-job training, the candidate will be part of a certified team of subject matter experts that are integral to our customer's success.
The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.
What You'll Do:
  • Duties:
    • Create and/or implement a daily operations plan using complex software and hardware systems.
    • Obtain/maintain technical knowledge of a large repository of formal procedures with the responsibility to accurately select and apply the correct procedure(s) depending on the specific scenario at hand.
    • Obtain/apply technical knowledge on various hardware subsystems.
    • Document discrepancies as they occur. Implement workarounds and contingency plans to minimize impacts of system anomalies.
    • Develop contingency response plans to ensure system safety as well as design and test techniques and tactics for ensuring mission safety.
    • Contribute to the testing, readiness, training, and implementation of new ground software deliveries.
    • Cross-train in other operator positions as assigned and assist with training of other personnel on the contract team.
    • Work in an adaptable small team environment (3-7 people).
  • Schedule:
    • Occasional call-ins and travel are required.
    • These positions require the availability to work overtime and non-scheduled call-in support, working a combination of day staff and shift schedules with assignments based on the dynamic needs of the team.
  • Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
  • Perform other duties as necessary.

On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions:
  • Work is performed in an office environment, laboratory, cleanroom, or production floor.

Required Skills and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field.
  • Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
  • A current, active TS/SCI Polygraph security clearance is required.
  • Experience in problem solving in time-critical situations.
  • Experience implementing technical instructions or procedures documents.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Basic Microsoft Office skills.
#LI-NP1
Preferred Skills and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM).
  • Experience with satellite operations, engineering, or sustainment.
  • Providing/receiving training to/from a wide range of learning/teaching styles.
  • Experience with Windows and UNIX platforms.
  • Experience with Perl, Python, VBA, and/or other scripting languages.

About BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for government and commercial customers. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Multiple positions may be available on this opening.

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