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Space Systems Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Defensive space control, such as space operations and/or mission protection experience * Knowledge of Enterprise and System Architecture concepts and principles. * Experience with Atlassian tools ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

... systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the ... and operation of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. SDA capitalizes on a unique ...

Space Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Defensive space control, such as space operations and/or mission protection experience * Knowledge of Enterprise and System Architecture concepts and principles. * Experience with Atlassian tools ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$180K - $213K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Vienna, VA

$173K - $205K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Support launch readiness activities and early on-orbit operations * Influence program decisions ... Hands-on experience with space-based ISR systems, radar system design, signal processing, or RF ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

In this role, you will design, implement, and test software that supports the operation of spacecraft and space systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and performance in space ...

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Support launch readiness activities and early on-orbit operations * Influence program decisions ... Hands-on experience with space-based ISR systems, radar system design, signal processing, or RF ...

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA

$120K - $164K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Space Systems Engineer to provide expert technical oversight and ... Provide technical and operational insight to support mission protection, operations, and mission ...

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Space Systems Engineer to provide expert technical oversight and ... Provide technical and operational insight to support mission protection, operations, and mission ...

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Space Systems Engineer to provide expert technical oversight and ... Provide technical and operational insight to support mission protection, operations, and mission ...

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Space Systems Engineer to provide expert technical oversight and ... Provide technical and operational insight to support mission protection, operations, and mission ...

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Space Systems Operations information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do space systems operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for space systems operations in Virginia is $19.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Space Systems Operations job?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Space Systems Operations position, 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.

What does a space systems operator do?

A space systems operator monitors and manages satellite and spacecraft operations, ensuring communication, navigation, and data collection functions run smoothly. They use specialized software and tools, often working in control centers, and may require technical certifications or training in aerospace systems. Their responsibilities include troubleshooting issues, executing commands, and maintaining system security and performance.

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 jobs in the U.S. pay 300,000 a year?

In space systems operations, senior roles such as spacecraft program managers, systems engineers, and satellite project directors can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require specialized technical skills, security clearances, and management expertise within aerospace or defense industries.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In space systems operations, high-paying roles such as satellite or spacecraft technicians can earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience and specialized skills, often without requiring a traditional degree. These roles typically demand technical training, certifications, and hands-on experience in aerospace environments.

How much do space system operators make?

Space systems operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and years of service in the aerospace or defense industries.
What are popular job titles related to Space Systems Operations jobs in Virginia? For Space Systems Operations jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Space Systems Operations jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Space Systems Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Space Systems Operations jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Space Systems Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Space Systems Operations job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,868 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Space Systems Engineer

Space Systems Engineer

Peraton

Herndon, VA

$112K - $179K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Peraton rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 204 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

As a Space Systems Engineer- Mid you will support Agile scrum teams in planning, design, development, deployment, integration, test, and configuration management of space domain awareness software tools. As an experienced professional with a full understanding of systems engineering, uses professional concepts and company objectives to resolve a wide range of difficult problems in imaginative and practical ways; have expertise as a journey-level professional; and perform work under general direction. 

The EMMETT program, a next gen Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Indications and Warning (I&W) system, establishes a repository of resident space objects (RSOs), finds RSOs of interest, and provides data to ground operators. The EMMETT team uses: programmatics, sensor modeling, and system engineering expertise to deliver this world-class SDA I&W system.

What you'll do:

  • Assist in developing systems engineering processes for the planning, design, development, deployment, integration and test, configuration management of satellite ground station systems
  • Evaluate proposed architecture and engineering design changes to a subsystem of a major system acquisition program
  • Effectively collaborate and drive communication with colleagues across teams
  • Create briefings for Program Status Reviews including Course of Action decision briefs
  • Provides input and status to the program integrated master schedule (IMS) and assumes responsibility for program tasks
  • Exercises sound judgement to avoid erroneous decisions or recommendations would normally result in serious program delays and considerable expenditure or resources.
  • Represents the organization in providing solutions to difficult technical problems.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Associates degree with 7+ years of relevant experience; OR a Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience; OR a Master's degree with 3+ years of relevant experience. Four (4) years of additional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • This position requires the candidate possess a minimum of Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility and pass a polygraph within 30 days of employment or at customers request- contract requires TS/SCI with poly. The candidate must maintain the clearance.
  • Experience developing and supporting system engineering processes across the entire system lifecycle to include the analysis, planning, design, development, deployment, integration, test, or configuration of software.
  • Direct experience within the space domain 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Aeorspace Engineering degree or related field. 
  • Master's degree (or the equivalent) in a technical field
  • Two (2+) years of experience in the Intelligence Community with systems engineering focus
  • One (1+) year of experience in software or hardware integration
  • Defensive space control, such as space operations and/or mission protection experience
  • Knowledge of Enterprise and System Architecture concepts and principles.
  • Experience with Atlassian tools such as Jira and Confluence
  • Understanding of Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) processes, tools, and languages (Cameo, MagicDraw, SysML, Sequence Diagrams, DoDAF, etc.)
  • Experience with software centric systems
  • Experience with Agile
  • Self-starter with ability to work independently and with stakeholders
  • Active CompTIA Security+ CE certification or working toward certification

Benefits:

Peraton offers enhanced benefits to employees working on this critical National Security program, which include heavily subsidized employee benefits coverage for you and your dependents, 25 days of PTO accrued annually up to a generous PTO cap and participation in an attractive bonus plan.

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017