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Space Systems Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Array Labs

Space Systems Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

About the Job We're seeking an experienced Space Systems Engineer to join our team as we move from ... Experience with serial manufacturing and/or operation of spacecraft (at LEO constellation or fleet ...

BTAS

Senior Space Systems Expert

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$148K - $275K/yr

POSITION: Senior Space Systems Expert LOCATION: El Segundo, CA REQUIRED SECURITY CLEARANCE ... Join us in shaping the future of space operations and contributing to the defense of our nation ...

BTAS, Inc.

Senior Space Systems Expert

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$148K - $275K/yr

Senior Space Systems Expert LOCATION: El Segundo, CA REQUIRED SECURITY CLEARANCE: Active TS with ... Join us in shaping the future of space operations and contributing to the defense of our nation ...

Medium

Chief Space Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$210 - $230/hr

Performs system integration of multiple efforts to integrate complex space systems, ground segment integration, and deployment into operations. * Manages and negotiates interface control documents ...

OffWorld

Lead Space Systems Engineer

Altadena, CA · On-site

www.offworld.ai Lead Space Systems Engineer Full time position based in Altadena, CA OffWorld is a ... You will initially support the development, launch, commissioning, and operations of a CubeSat ...

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How much do space systems operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for space systems operations in California is $19.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a space systems operations?

A Space Systems Operations job involves managing, monitoring, and controlling satellites, space assets, and ground control systems for military, government, or commercial purposes. Professionals in this field ensure the functionality of communication, navigation, reconnaissance, and missile warning systems. They analyze data, troubleshoot technical issues, and coordinate with mission teams to maintain operational readiness. This role requires expertise in orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems, and secure communications. It plays a critical role in national security, space exploration, and global connectivity.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in space systems operations?

Professionals in Space Systems Operations are responsible for monitoring and controlling satellites or spacecraft, troubleshooting technical anomalies, and supporting mission planning and execution. Their day-to-day tasks may include conducting pre-launch system checks, tracking orbital paths, analyzing telemetry data, and coordinating with engineering and mission teams to ensure system health and data integrity. They also maintain detailed logs and respond to real-time issues that may arise during missions. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is common, making communication skills and the ability to work under pressure highly valuable in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in space systems operations, and why are they important?

To excel in Space Systems Operations, candidates typically need a strong foundation in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline, combined with relevant military or industry experience. Familiarity with satellite control software, telemetry systems, mission planning tools, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or DoD 8570 may be required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and precise operation of complex space assets vital to mission success.

How much do space systems operations make?

Space systems operations specialists typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or security clearances can earn higher salaries. Certifications in satellite or aerospace systems can also influence compensation.

What does a space systems operations do?

A space systems operations professional manages and monitors satellite and spacecraft systems to ensure proper functioning and mission success. They handle tasks such as system troubleshooting, data analysis, and coordinating with ground control, often using specialized software and adhering to strict safety protocols. This role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and often involves working in a 24/7 operational environment.

What jobs can you get with a space systems operations degree?

A degree in space systems operations can lead to roles such as satellite operations specialist, spacecraft systems engineer, mission operations analyst, or space systems technician. These jobs typically involve managing satellite or spacecraft functions, requiring knowledge of aerospace systems, communication protocols, and often security clearances or certifications. Professionals in this field work in government agencies, aerospace companies, or defense contractors, often in a technical or operational environment.

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

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Space Systems Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Systems Operations job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,682 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Space Systems Engineer

Array Labs

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Array Labs builds advanced radar systems to help humanity understand and respond to changes across the physical world.
We're launching a coordinated fleet of radar satellites to create a high-resolution 3D map of the Earth - updated in real time - enabling faster, smarter decision-making for government and commercial organizations. Our fleet will deliver unprecedented levels of accuracy, coverage, and responsiveness to power critical insights precisely where they're needed most, supporting disaster response, infrastructure resilience, and mission-critical geopolitical intelligence.
About the Job
We're seeking an experienced Space Systems Engineer to join our team as we move from prototypes into proliferated systems. You'll have the opportunity to influence every aspect of the design - from radar payloads to mass-manufactured formation flying radar satellites - delivering cutting-edge solutions for dozens of critical mission sets.
You'll bring rigorous first-principles engineering judgement to problems spanning the entire system. We value rapid testing and iteration over protracted analysis and formal verification: you'll own the interface rather than updating the document. You will be at the center of how we design, build, and test our systems from early concepts through on-orbit operations.
Responsibilities
  • Shape and own interfaces across mechanical, electrical, RF, and data domains
  • Lead system design reviews and support program-level technical reviews across the product lifecycle
  • Work with domain experts to create functional and environmental test strategies to validate spacecraft and subsystem performance early in the design lifecycle
  • Own, model, and monitor system budgets including power, thermal, data, pointing, momentum
  • Document and communicate component-level specifications to clarify performance thresholds and ensure system performance
  • Manage technical relationships with hardware suppliers and customers, ensuring clear interface ownership throughout
  • Drive trade studies and future architectures including component selection, parameter sweeps, and performance modeling
  • Guide radar payload customer conversations from concept studies through delivery
  • Provide technical support for regulatory filings (NOAA, FCC, and EAR/ITAR)
  • Develop and maintain risk mitigation strategies; support non-conformance and issue tracking for spacecraft hardware

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field
  • 3+ years of experience in spacecraft or complex aerospace systems engineering
  • Experience working with and delivering space flight hardware
  • Demonstrated experience owning system-level requirements and interface definitions
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft and payload subsystems
  • Familiarity with radar or RF payload systems
  • Experience supporting hardware integration and test campaigns
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage both internal teams and external technical stakeholders
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, resource-constrained startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy

Preferred Skills & Experience
  • Experience on console operating spacecraft in LEO
  • Experience with serial manufacturing and/or operation of spacecraft (at LEO constellation or fleet management scale)
  • Familiarity with spacecraft system-level fault and reliability analysis (fishbones, FDIR, fault tolerance, root cause)
  • Familiarity with software development or extensive scripting in python
  • Experience with SAR instruments, or earth imaging sensors
  • Expertise in the development of at least one spacecraft subsystem (e.g., Power, Comms, GN&C, Mechanical, Electrical)
  • Prior vendor management or customer-facing technical interface experience in an aerospace or defense context
  • Working knowledge of link budgets and radar range equations
  • Experience with orbital analysis and mission modeling tools (e.g., STK, FreeFlyer, or equivalent)
  • Background in EO/SAR mission planning or ground segment operations
  • Familiarity with U.S. commercial remote sensing regulations (NOAA), FCC spectrum licensing processes, and export control frameworks (EAR/ITAR)

$150,000 - $250,000 a year
Compensation & Benefits
Our hiring and compensation strategy is simple: find uncommonly good people and pay them uncommonly well.
We offer high flexibility between salary and equity-based compensation. Candidates who make it through the full interview process can choose from three compensation mixes: low, medium, or high equity. Equity is a significant component of total compensation, and we aim to provide meaningful ownership for this role.
Full-time employees also enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, a 401(k) with company match, commuter benefits, and more.
Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including experience and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed above.
Interview Process
We conduct our interviews via Google Meet with the potential for an onsite visit. We aim to make the experience as smooth and transparent as possible, and you can typically expect the full process to take around 3-5 weeks from start to finish.
Why Join Array Labs?
Array Labs is launching a constellation of satellites to create the first high-resolution, real-time, three-dimensional model of Earth. Our next-generation satellite technology will offer image quality many times greater than traditional techniques, profoundly expanding humanity's ability to understand and respond to events on a global scale.
We're solving one of the hardest sensing problems in the world-from space. Our team is mission-driven, highly technical, and deeply collaborative. As Chief of Staff, you'll sit at the center of this effort: partnering directly with the CEO and leadership team, shaping how we set priorities, communicate, and execute as we scale. If you're excited to build the systems and practices that help a deep-tech company grow from early stage to industry-defining, we'd love to hear from you.
ITAR Requirements
Equal Opportunity Employer
Array Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made on the basis of merit, competence, and job qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by gender, color, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender.

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