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Spacecraft Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waypoint Sierra Consultants

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Spacecraft Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$165K - $210K/yr

The Spacecraft Operations Engineer at Waypoint S plays a critical role in managing daily operations and supporting long-term missions within a large cross-functional team. Based on-site at the ...

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How much do spacecraft operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft operations in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Excelling in Spacecraft Operations requires a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with spacecraft control systems, mission planning software, and telemetry monitoring tools such as SCOS-2000 or GMSEC is highly valued, and some roles may require security clearances or certifications from agencies like NASA or ESA. Attention to detail, clear communication, and teamwork are critical soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These competencies are essential to ensure mission safety, coordinate complex tasks, and respond effectively to rapidly changing scenarios during space operations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Spacecraft Operations?

Professionals in Spacecraft Operations are responsible for monitoring spacecraft health, analyzing telemetry data, executing mission commands, and troubleshooting anomalies in real time. Daily tasks often include coordinating with engineers, mission planners, and ground station teams to maintain smooth operations and prepare for mission events such as maneuvers or data downlinks. The role may also involve shift work, as many spacecraft require 24/7 oversight. Strong collaboration and communication are key, as team members regularly share critical updates and work together to resolve technical challenges. This dynamic environment offers the opportunity to directly support groundbreaking missions and contribute to the success of complex space operations.

What is a Spacecraft Operations job?

A Spacecraft Operations job involves monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the health and functionality of a spacecraft. Operators ensure the spacecraft follows its planned mission by sending commands, analyzing telemetry data, and troubleshooting issues that arise. These professionals work closely with engineers and mission planners to ensure smooth operations, whether for satellites, probes, or crewed spacecraft. The role often requires shift work, as space missions operate 24/7. Strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of mission-specific software and systems are essential.

More about Spacecraft Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Spacecraft Operations jobs? Cities with the most Spacecraft Operations job openings:
What states have the most Spacecraft Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Spacecraft Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Spacecraft Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Spacecraft Operations jobs are:
Spacecraft Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Operations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Waypoint Sierra Consultants

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$165K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

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Job description

The Spacecraft Operations Engineer at Waypoint S plays a critical role in managing daily operations and supporting long-term missions within a large cross-functional team. Based on-site at the control center in El Segundo, California, the engineer utilizes proprietary and standard aerospace software alongside custom scripting tools to ensure effective mission planning, telemetry monitoring, and anomaly resolution. This position requires an active TS/SCI clearance or eligibility for reissuance and a deep expertise developed through over 10 years of relevant spacecraft operations experience.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and coordinate spacecraft missions and operations
  • Monitor telemetry data to assess spacecraft health and status
  • Identify and resolve anomalies during mission execution
  • Conduct flight dynamics analysis to support mission objectives
  • Perform system testing and validation of spacecraft functions
  • Analyze operational data to improve mission performance
  • Collaborate across teams to ensure mission success
  • Generate detailed reports on mission status and outcomes

Required Qualifications

  • 10+ years of spacecraft operations experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field
  • Proficient in satellite systems and telemetry analysis
  • Expertise in mission planning and flight dynamics
  • Experience with software tools for spacecraft operations, including proprietary mission software
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and team collaboration abilities
  • U.S. citizenship and active TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI held within the last six months with eligibility for reissuance

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a SCIF environment
  • Familiarity with custom scripting and aerospace software tools
  • Ability to work full-time on-site in El Segundo, California

Company Description

Waypoint Sierra Consultants provides professional aerospace services for the most demanding missions, supporting the acquisition, integration, and operation of the world’s most advanced space systems for defense and intelligence applications. We provide system engineering and integration support to numerous USSF space missions. Our team assists in all mission phases, from pre-acquisition through launch-site integration and on-orbit operations.