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Spacecraft Operations Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Team Mission Solutions - The Platforms Mission Solutions builds on Umbra's expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied ...

Umbra

Spacecraft Thermal Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Team Mission Solutions - The Platforms Mission Solutions builds on Umbra's expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied ...

Umbra

Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Team Mission Solutions - The Platforms Mission Solutions builds on Umbra's expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied ...

Umbra

Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Team Mission Solutions - The Platforms Mission Solutions builds on Umbra's expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

Senior DevOps Engineer I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$133K - $171K/yr

The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working ... S ENGINEER I Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and ...

Umbra

Senior Ground Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$127K - $168K/yr

You will work closely with spacecraft operations and systems engineering teams to analyze, build, and maintain solutions that support the advancement of our autonomous tasking and downlink system.

Umbra

Senior Ground Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

You will work closely with spacecraft operations and systems engineering teams to analyze, build, and maintain solutions that support the advancement of our autonomous tasking and downlink system.

Lynk

Satellite Systems Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

The Satellite Operations Engineer at Lynk is a technical systems engineering position pivotal to ... Typically 5-10 years of experience, with demonstrated ownership of spacecraft operations or system ...

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All JobsSpacecraft Operations Engineer JobsSpacecraft Operations Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Spacecraft Operations Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$84.3K

$133.8K

How much do spacecraft operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft operations engineer in Virginia is $84,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $93,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Spacecraft Operations Engineers during mission operations?

Spacecraft Operations Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating real-time responses to unexpected anomalies, managing complex schedules for satellite maneuvers, and ensuring seamless communication between ground control and the spacecraft. The role requires balancing strict adherence to operational procedures while quickly adapting to unforeseen technical issues. Effective teamwork and cross-functional collaboration with systems engineers, mission planners, and ground station personnel are crucial to successfully navigating these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Spacecraft Operations Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Operations Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, often complemented by experience in satellite or spacecraft mission operations. Familiarity with ground control software, mission planning tools, and certifications such as ECSS or ITIL are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities make candidates excel in this position. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and successful operation of spacecraft in complex and high-stakes environments.

What does a Spacecraft Operations Engineer do?

A Spacecraft Operations Engineer is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and managing spacecraft during its mission life. They work in mission control centers to ensure the spacecraft operates safely and efficiently, troubleshooting issues and executing commands as required. Their duties often include planning mission activities, analyzing telemetry data, and coordinating with other engineering teams to resolve technical problems. This role is critical for ensuring the success of satellite, probe, or crewed missions, both during routine operations and in emergency situations.

What is the difference between Spacecraft Operations Engineer vs Satellite Operations Engineer?

AspectSpacecraft Operations EngineerSatellite Operations Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering; certifications like PMP or satellite-specific trainingBachelor's in engineering or related field; satellite operation certifications
Work EnvironmentMission control centers, spacecraft ground stations, aerospace companiesSatellite control centers, telecom companies, aerospace firms
Industry UsageSpace agencies, commercial spaceflight, satellite launch providersTelecommunications, broadcasting, satellite service providers
Job FocusManaging spacecraft health, mission operations, troubleshootingMonitoring satellite performance, orbit adjustments, data collection

Both roles involve spacecraft or satellite management, requiring similar technical skills and certifications. The main difference lies in the scope: Spacecraft Operations Engineers focus on space missions and spacecraft health in orbit, while Satellite Operations Engineers primarily manage satellite functions in telecommunications or broadcasting industries.

What are popular job titles related to Spacecraft Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Spacecraft Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Spacecraft Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Spacecraft Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Spacecraft Operations Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Operations Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,299 per year, or $40.5 per hour.
Spacecraft Operations Systems Engineer

Spacecraft Operations Systems Engineer

KBR, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

Title:
Spacecraft Operations Systems Engineer
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Why Join Us?
  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

KBR is seeking a Spacecraft Operations Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA. A TS/SCI with polygraph clearance is required for consideration.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide real-time support for on-orbit spacecraft operations, including:
  • Telemetry monitoring and data analysis
  • Subsystem performance assessment
  • Anomaly troubleshooting and root cause analysis
  • Impact assessments and development of recovery strategies
  • Support and contribute to system engineering reviews, including:
  • Evaluation and improvement of operational procedures
  • Technical analysis of system performance and behaviors
  • Insight into protective modes, anomaly resolution, and contingency operations
  • Ensure effective and reliable spacecraft operations by:
  • Monitoring spacecraft and payload health and safety
  • Driving timely resolution of anomalous conditions
  • Supporting operational readiness and mission continuity
  • Contribute to spacecraft constellation maintenance and engineering activities, including:
  • Configuration management
  • Performance monitoring and optimization
  • Anomaly tracking and resolution
  • Serve as a technical point of contact for spacecraft operations, maintenance, and calibration activities
  • Prepare and deliver briefings, status updates, and technical feedback to leadership and stakeholders

Work Environment:
  • Location: On-site
  • Travel Requirements: Up to 25%
  • Working Hours: Core hour support required

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Active TS/SCI with polygraph clearance
  • Education and experience:
    Bachelor's degree with 9+ years of experience (or) Master's degree with 7+ years of experience, (or) PhD or JD with 4+ years of experience
  • Experience supporting satellite programs within NRO, Intelligence Community (IC), or Department of Defense (DoD) environments
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including:
  • Root cause analysis in collaborative, cross-functional settings
  • Trend analysis and summarization of findings for stakeholders

Desired:
  • Experience supporting execution and management of U.S. Government contracts
  • Experience with acquisition processes or contract execution related to spacecraft enhancements

Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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