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Space Surveillance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager - Space Fence

Moorestown, NJ ยท On-site

$61K - $68K/yr

THE WORK The Missile Defense and Space Surveillance (MD&SS) Team is seeking a Program Manager to lead the Space Fence program. The Program Manager (PM) will provide overall leadership for the Space ...

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Space Surveillance information

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$15

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How much do space surveillance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for space surveillance in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Space Surveillance, and why are they important?

To excel in Space Surveillance, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Familiarity with radar systems, satellite tracking software, and specialized data visualization tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate monitoring of space objects, timely risk assessment, and the protection of vital space assets.

What is space surveillance?

Space surveillance is the process of tracking and monitoring artificial objects in Earth's orbit, such as satellites and space debris. Its main purpose is to prevent collisions in space and to ensure the safety of both manned and unmanned missions. Organizations use ground-based radar, telescopes, and advanced software to detect, catalog, and predict the movements of objects in space. Space surveillance is crucial for protecting valuable assets, maintaining space situational awareness, and supporting international cooperation in space activities.

What is the difference between Space Surveillance vs Satellite Operations Specialist?

AspectSpace SurveillanceSatellite Operations Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, physics, or related field; security clearance often neededBachelor's in engineering, aerospace, or related; certifications in satellite systems may be preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, military, or space agencies; monitoring space objectsSatellite control centers; managing satellite functions and data
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily government and defense sectorsCommercial and government satellite operators
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to space monitoring and trackingManaging and controlling satellite operations

Space Surveillance focuses on tracking and monitoring objects in space, often for defense or space situational awareness. Satellite Operations Specialists manage the day-to-day functioning of satellites, ensuring they perform their missions effectively. While both roles involve space technology, Space Surveillance emphasizes space object tracking, whereas Satellite Operations centers on satellite management and control.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Space Surveillance, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Space Surveillance often encounter challenges such as monitoring a growing number of objects in orbit, rapidly analyzing vast data streams, and maintaining high accuracy in object tracking to prevent collisions. Addressing these challenges requires proficiency with advanced radar and optical systems, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with both civilian and military partners. Continuous training and staying updated on the latest surveillance technologies are essential for success in this dynamic environment.
More about Space Surveillance jobs
What states have the most Space Surveillance jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Surveillance jobs include:
Space Surveillance Engineer II

Space Surveillance Engineer II

Slingshot Aerospace

Colorado Springs, CO โ€ข On-site, Remote

$78K - $106K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Meet Slingshotย 

At Slingshot Aerospace,ย we'reย on a mission to make space safer and more secureย for everyone. Our work directlyย impactsย global security, disaster response, climate monitoring, and the critical infrastructure that connects our world.ย We'reย a team of builders, thinkers, and problem-solvers who believe that the next generation of space operations will be powered by better data and smarter software. We move fast,ย we'reย not afraid to fail, and we believe the best ideas can come from anywhere-whetherย you'reย in engineering, sales, product, or operations. If you want to work on something that truly matters, with people who care deeply about the impactย we'reย making and help shape the future of an industryย that'sย just getting started,ย you'reย in the right place.ย 

Whatย You'llย Be Launchingย 

As a member of Space Surveillance Research and Development (R&D) technical staff, you will support Slingshot's efforts to accelerate the security, safety, and sustainability of space via the detection, tracking, identification, and characterization of satellites and space debris. This work will include a subset of (i) designing sensing systems for space surveillance applications; (ii) development of software/hardware interfaces for ground- and space-based gimbaled and non-gimbaled sensor systems, (iii) development of state-of-the-art detection, calibration, and mount control algorithms; (iv) modeling, simulation, and analysis of sensor network capabilities; and (v) development of robust software toย process data fromย ground- and space-based SDA sensors.ย This role requires Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

We'reย building a team of sharp, creative people who love solving hard problems. We value curiosity over ego, initiative over waiting for permission, and people who genuinely care about doingย great work. Bring yourย expertise, your fresh ideas, and your drive-we'llย bring the rocket fuel.ย 

Your Mission (Should you choose to accept it)ย ย 
  • Execute all position responsibilities in alignment with Slingshot's core values, mission, and purposeย 
  • Develop algorithms and software to help automate and enhance sensor data tasking, collection, processing, exploitation, and dissemination
  • Perform system-level design, simulation, and integration of hardware components to create cutting-edge space surveillance systems
  • Support ongoing and future transitions of Slingshot's products and services to the Slingshot Global Sensor Network (SGSN), space operations centers, and other technology testbeds
  • Engage with customers and stakeholders to ensure successful outcomes for their mission-critical needs
  • Contribute your expertise and ideas to help shape our products and strategies
  • Prepare technical reports and briefing materials
  • Represent your team and Slingshot to a broader audience through presentations to customers and stakeholders
  • Serve as a technical expert and key contributor to Slingshot's space surveillance technology development
  • Lead the successful execution of individual projects, small team projects, and/or product development activities
  • Perform other duties as assigned (to be less than 10% of the responsibilities listed above)ย 
  • Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility isย requiredย for this role.ย 
Pre-flight Checklistย 
  • Undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Astronomy, or a related fieldย 
  • 4+ years of relevant experience, potentially accounting for a record of academic excellence with relevant internship experience
  • Experience developing applications in Python, C++, and Docker
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the demonstrated ability to convey salient details about advanced technology in a compelling manner to both experts and non-experts alike
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with little to no day-to-day oversight
  • Ability to work in a SCIF in Colorado Springs, CO for up to 20 hours per week (remainder will be remote work-from-home)
  • Tenacious drive to overcome challenges and deliver solutions with excellenceย 
Bonus Cargoย 
  • Graduate level degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Astronomy, or a related fieldย 
  • Significant experienceย developing and debugging applications in Python and/or C++ with deployment experience in a Linux operating environment
  • Cislunar SSA experience
  • Training or experience in fields such as orbital analysis, algorithm optimization, software/hardware interfacing, embedded/GPU development, astrodynamics, estimation theory, statistical analysis, remote sensing, radiometry, and machine learning
  • Early-stage startup experienceย 

We'reย building a constellation here, not looking for identical satellites. Every member of the team brings different capabilities to the same mission. If your orbit intersects with ours andย you'reย mission-ready, send it.ย 

Location:ย Hybrid Colorado Springs, CO Area (50% onsite in SCIF, 50% remote)ย 

Relocation: Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates

Salary:$127,500-$212,500

Classification:ย Full time Exempt (learned professional exemption)ย