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Weekend Satellite Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers ... This role requires regular, consistent evening and overnight shifts, as well as weekend work to ...

Satellite Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$44 - $49/hr

Satellite Operator As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers ... This role requires regular, consistent evening and overnight shifts, as well as weekend work to ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

... mobile or satellite operator or infrastructure or devices manufacturer * At least 3 years ... This means that there will be times when extra hours, including nights and weekends, may be needed ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

... mobile or satellite operator or infrastructure or devices manufacturer * At least 3 years ... This means that there will be times when extra hours, including nights and weekends, may be needed ...

Mission Operations Engineer

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

... mobile or satellite operator or infrastructure or devices manufacturer * At least 3 years ... This means that there will be times when extra hours, including nights and weekends, may be needed ...

$29.01 - $61.44/hr

Operate complex ENG microwave control systems, satellite systems, CBNG systems, and beauty camera ... Willingness to work overtime, evenings, and on weekends with short notice, and respond to emergency ...

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Weekend Satellite Operator information

What is the difference between Weekend Satellite Operator vs Satellite Technician?

AspectWeekend Satellite OperatorSatellite Technician
CredentialsFCC license, technical trainingFCC license, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentBroadcast stations, remote sitesField sites, repair shops
Industry UsageBroadcasting, telecommunicationsSatellite installation, maintenance

The Weekend Satellite Operator primarily manages satellite transmissions during weekends, focusing on operation and monitoring. In contrast, the Satellite Technician handles installation, repairs, and maintenance of satellite equipment. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path within the satellite industry.

What are the typical responsibilities and work schedule for a weekend satellite operator?

As a Weekend Satellite Operator, you are primarily responsible for monitoring and controlling satellite systems, ensuring continuous operation and rapid response to any anomalies. The position typically involves working 12-hour shifts over weekends and may include some holidays, given the 24/7 nature of satellite operations. You will collaborate closely with technical teams, engineers, and mission planners to troubleshoot issues and perform routine system checks. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to follow established protocols are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weekend satellite operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Weekend Satellite Operator, you need a solid understanding of satellite communications, radio frequency (RF) principles, and experience with relevant technical procedures, often supported by a degree in engineering, telecommunications, or a related field. Familiarity with satellite control software, ground station hardware, and monitoring systems such as SatOps or SCADA is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this position. These skills ensure reliable satellite operations, quick issue resolution, and effective coordination during critical weekend shifts.

What does a weekend satellite operator do?

A Weekend Satellite Operator is responsible for monitoring and managing satellite systems during weekend shifts. Their duties typically include overseeing satellite transmissions, troubleshooting technical issues, ensuring data integrity, and coordinating with engineering teams to maintain optimal satellite performance. The role often requires attention to detail, knowledge of satellite communication protocols, and the ability to respond quickly to any anomalies or emergencies that may arise during their watch.
What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Satellite Operator jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Weekend Satellite Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Weekend Satellite Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Weekend Satellite Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Weekend Satellite Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Weekend Satellite Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Satellite Operator

Astranis

San Francisco, CA

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Satellite Operator

As our Mission Operator, you will work closely with mission operations engineers, hardware engineers, and software engineers writing and executing standard operating procedures used to safely and reliably fly spacecraft on orbit.

Our ideal candidate is highly motivated and open to learning how satellites are built, tested, and operated - no direct satellite operation experience is required, though relatable experience is desired.

Role
  • Collaborate with engineers to create, test, and execute satellite operations procedures, including launch, early operations, orbit raising, and nominal sustainment operations procedures
  • Monitor system health and report anomalies, working with the engineering team to safely resolve them
  • Participate in training exercises, helping to enhance our training regimen for new satellite operators
  • This role requires regular, consistent evening and overnight shifts, as well as weekend work to support 24/7 spacecraft operations
Requirements
  • 2+ years of professional work experience 
  • Process-oriented mindset with emphasis on excellence and repeatable execution
  • Highly motivated, self-starting, and able to perform duties without supervision
  • A passion for working in a fast-paced, collaborative, high-stakes environment
  • Don't meet them all? Not a problem. Please apply even if you do not meet all these criteria
Bonus
  • Basic understanding of satellite subsystems (hardware and software)
  • Basic understanding of satellite ground systems, antennas, & RF
  • Familiarity with testing and troubleshooting complex systems
  • Familiarity with software development tools such as Git
  • Experience operating complex systems
  • Familiarity with GEO satellites
Shifts

 The team operates on 3x8 hour shifts a day:

  • Morning: 0700 - 1500
  • Swing: 1500 - 2300
  • Night: 2300 - 0700

and rotates between shifts every 2-3 months. Off-console work is not on a shift schedule.

Week 1

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Off-Console Work

OFF

On-Console Shift

Week 2

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

On-Console Shift

OFF