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Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer Jobs

$111K - $152K/yr

The Satellite Flight-Operations engineer will perform and participate in the following tasks and ... Development of Spacecraft In-Orbit Operations Procedures and oversight of their execution and ...

Flight Operations Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

A fast-growing space scale-up at the forefront of satellite innovation, specializing in advanced ... Monitor and analyze spacecraft telemetry, and investigate off-nominal behavior * Identify, assess ...

A fast-growing space scale-up at the forefront of satellite innovation, specializing in advanced ... Monitor and analyze spacecraft telemetry, and investigate off-nominal behavior * Identify, assess ...

$111K - $152K/yr

The Satellite Flight-Operations engineer will perform and participate in the following tasks and ... Development of Spacecraft In-Orbit Operations Procedures and oversight of their execution and ...

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to develop and refine CONOPS (Concept of ... Prior spacecraft or satellite operations experience (LEO, GEO, or deep-space missions)

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to develop and refine CONOPS (Concept of ... Prior spacecraft or satellite operations experience (LEO, GEO, or deep-space missions)

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to develop and refine CONOPS (Concept of ... Prior spacecraft or satellite operations experience (LEO, GEO, or deep-space missions)

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Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft satellite flight operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for spacecraft satellite flight operations engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a spacecraft satellite flight operations engineer do?

A Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer is responsible for managing and controlling satellites after they are launched into space. Their duties include monitoring satellite health, troubleshooting anomalies, executing commands, and ensuring the satellite accomplishes its mission objectives. They work closely with mission planners, ground control teams, and engineers to maintain reliable satellite operations. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of satellite systems, and the ability to respond quickly to unexpected technical issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spacecraft satellite flight operations engineer?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, along with experience in satellite systems and mission operations. Familiarity with spacecraft control software, telemetry and command systems, and certifications like ITAR compliance or NASA/ESA mission training are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help manage anomalies and coordinate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring satellite safety, mission success, and real-time response to technical challenges in a highly complex and high-stakes environment.

What are some common challenges faced by spacecraft satellite flight operations engineers during mission operations?

Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected anomalies, maintaining reliable communication with satellites, and adapting to rapidly changing mission priorities. They must quickly diagnose issues using telemetry data, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and follow strict protocols to ensure satellite safety and mission success. The dynamic nature of satellite operations requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure, especially during critical mission events or emergencies.

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

AspectSpacecraft Satellite Flight Operations EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
Primary FocusMonitoring and controlling satellite operations during missionsDesigning, developing, and testing satellite systems and components
Work EnvironmentMission control centers, ground stations, on-site operationsDesign labs, engineering offices, research facilities
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering; certifications in satellite operationsBachelor's or higher in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering; advanced technical certifications

While both roles require strong engineering backgrounds and knowledge of satellite systems, the Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer focuses on real-time satellite management during missions, whereas the Satellite Systems Engineer is involved in designing and developing satellite hardware and software. Their work environments and daily tasks differ, but both are essential in satellite industry operations.

What are popular job titles related to Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer jobs?

For Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Spacecraft Satellite Flight Operations Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Senior Flight-Operations Satellite-Systems-Engineer for Fastwater Staffing

Houston, TX • On-site, Remote

Hikinex
Strategic Planning Consulting Services • 51 - 200 employees

$99K - $136K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Role:
As part of the System Engineering Department, the Flight Operations System Engineer will participate, and coordinate the work needed for the analysis, planning and definition of the constellation operations ConOps, and the preparations, testing and execution of the operations procedures.
Tasks:
The Satellite Flight-Operations engineer will perform and participate in the following tasks and activities, depending on the background and experience of the candidate.
  • Trade-off studies to design, develop and simulate the overall Satellite LEOP plan.
  • Development of Spacecraft In-Orbit Operations Procedures and oversight of their execution and associated trainings.
  • Development of Satellite Operation Manuals, test procedures and oversight of their execution and associated trainings.
  • Verification & Validation Matrices of the operations procedures for on-orbit commissioning, routine, and contingency operations of the mission.
  • Support In-Orbit Test (IOT), anomaly resolution + FDIR.
  • Support the Satellite Simulator Operation and script development.

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering in a relevant field
  • At least 10 years of relevant practical experience
  • Previous experience with LEO/MEO satellite systems.
  • Experience with automated satellite operations, especially design and IOT.
  • Systems Engineering experience in concepts of space and ground segment design, specification and integration, knowledge of Flight Software role in operations, Satellite Database Operations concept and telemetry structure concepts.
  • Experience creating or using models and/or simulation software.
  • Knowledge of Python or other scripting languages
  • Knowledge of Matlab
  • Knowledge of AG1's Systems Tool Kit (STK)

Complementary skills/knowledge:
  • Previous experience in Constellation Operations
  • Development and testing of new automated operations
  • Knowledge of MS Excel, for the purposes of engineering analyses
  • Knowledge of requirements Management tools such as DOORS/Windchill/Jama

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About Hikinex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hikinex is a multi-channel integrated service provider designed to help Companies scale fast and drive more profit. We leverage diverse resources to provide Superior services at a fraction of the cost.

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

2016

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