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Spacecraft Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Akima, LLC

Satellite Controller III

Suitland, MD · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

The Satellite Controller III Provides real-time spacecraft operations support for DMSP satellite command and control activities in a 24/7 operational environment. Responsible for spacecraft ...

EchoStar

SVP, Spacecraft Operations

Englewood, CO · On-site

$300K - $400K/yr

You will lead a mission-critical organization comprising spacecraft controllers, engineers, and ground systems experts to ensure 24/7/365 broadcast continuity and operational excellence. Job Duties ...

EchoStar

SVP, Spacecraft Operations

Englewood, CO · On-site

$300K - $400K/yr

You will lead a mission-critical organization comprising spacecraft controllers, engineers, and ground systems experts to ensure 24/7/365 broadcast continuity and operational excellence. Job Duties ...

Inmarsat Government, Inc

SPOC Engineer

Reston, VA

... Spacecraft Controller function is placed on the supervision of executing automated procedures rather than in their manual execution. To assist spacecraft and flight dynamics analyst staff in ...

Inmarsat Government, Inc

SPOC Engineer

Reston, VA

... Spacecraft Controller function is placed on the supervision of executing automated procedures rather than in their manual execution. To assist spacecraft and flight dynamics analyst staff in ...

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How much do spacecraft controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Spacecraft Controller position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Controller, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related STEM field, along with experience in real-time operations and mission support. Familiarity with spacecraft operations software, telemetry systems, and certifications such as NASA's Mission Control Center training is highly valued. Exceptional problem-solving skills, teamwork, and precise communication are critical soft skills for this position. These qualifications ensure safe, effective monitoring and control of spacecraft, where timely decision-making is vital to mission success.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Spacecraft Controller?

As a Spacecraft Controller, your daily responsibilities include monitoring spacecraft telemetry, managing communication with mission teams, and executing command sequences to support mission objectives. You'll collaborate closely with engineers and mission planners to troubleshoot anomalies, conduct routine system checks, and respond to unexpected situations in real time. Much of the work involves shift-based operations to ensure 24/7 coverage, requiring attention to detail and adherence to established protocols. The role provides invaluable experience in systems operations and teamwork, laying the foundation for potential advancement to senior mission control or spaceflight operations roles.

What is a Spacecraft Controller job?

A Spacecraft Controller is responsible for monitoring and operating spacecraft during missions, ensuring that onboard systems function correctly and responding to anomalies in real time. They work in mission control centers, following strict procedures to communicate with satellites, space probes, or crewed spacecraft. Their tasks include tracking telemetry data, executing commands, and coordinating with engineering and mission planning teams. This role requires strong technical knowledge in aerospace, engineering, or computer science, along with the ability to remain calm under pressure.

More about Spacecraft Controller jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft Controller jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft Controller job openings:
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Spacecraft Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Controller job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
Satellite Controller III

Satellite Controller III

Akima, LLC

Suitland, MD • On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Akima rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

247th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

Five Rivers Analytics, LLC is hiring for a Mid-Shift Satellite Controller III, located in Suitland, MD. The Satellite Controller III Provides real-time spacecraft operations support for DMSP satellite command and control activities in a 24/7 operational environment. Responsible for spacecraft monitoring, command execution, operational coordination, anomaly support, and mission data integrity supporting national security and operational weather missions. To join our team of outstanding professionals, apply today!
Responsibilities
  • Execute spacecraft command procedures and monitor spacecraft health
  • Configure and monitor spacecraft ground systems
  • Support anomaly response and contingency operations
  • Perform operational reporting and shift turnover activities
  • Coordinate with mission planners and operations teams
  • Support mission data quality and data delivery requirements
  • Participate in operational training and certification activities
  • Support a 12-Hour shift, Day or Night

Qualifications
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Minimum 4 years of experience supporting satellite operations, spacecraft operations, or mission operations environments
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US SECRET Clearance
  • Ability to lift up to 25lbs
  • Experience operating within a 24/7 mission operations environment and responding to real-time anomalies
  • Experience serving as a senior controller, shift lead, trainer, or technical advisor
  • Working knowledge of:
    • Satellite command and control systems
    • Orbital mechanics and spacecraft operations
    • Ground systems and RF communications
    • Telemetry processing and analysis
    • Satellite health and status monitoring
    • Operational procedures and anomaly resolution

Desired Certifications:
  • DMSP Satellite Controller Certification
  • applicable IA/Cyber Awareness training certifications

Job ID
2026-23667
Work Type
On-Site
Pay Range
$100,000 - $125,000
Benefits
Regular - The company offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) and a range of other voluntary benefits. Paid Time Off (PTO) is offered to regular full-time and part-time employees.
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Five Rivers Analytics (FRA), an Akima company, is not just another federal IT contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At FRA, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, FRA provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, FRA delivers streamline operations in support of an increasingly fast-paced, complex, and dynamic digital environment.
As a FRA employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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