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Weekend Satellite Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Watch Operator

Lorton, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Coordinate with mission ground stations, satellite operations, and network/communications teams to ... and weekends. Desired Qualifications * Experience in an NRO or IC operations center in a watch ...

Eng II - Sys

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$79K - $134K/yr

Schedule may include periodic support for night, weekend, or on-call shifts. * Establish and ... Training of satellite operators * Familiarity with operations processes such as discrepancy ...

Eng II - Sys

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$79K - $134K/yr

Schedule may include periodic support for night, weekend, or on-call shifts. * Establish and ... Training of satellite operators * Familiarity with operations processes such as discrepancy ...

Showing results 41-60

Weekend Satellite Operator information

See salary details

$21K

$74K

$124.5K

How much do weekend satellite operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for weekend satellite operator in the United States is $73,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $86,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Weekend Satellite Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Weekend Satellite Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Weekend Satellite Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Satellite Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Satellite Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Weekend Satellite Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Weekend Satellite Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Weekend Satellite Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions

OPERATOR I/II, PRODUCTION

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we're looking for Operator I/II, Production to join our production team and work in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment. Rocket Lab is a leading provider of high efficiency solar cells, solar panels, and composite structural products or satellite and aerospace applications. We're the world's only vertically integrated, end-to-end supplier of satellite solar arrays - our space solar products have powered over 1,000 satellites in orbit to date! 

Note: you'll have an assigned shift, but the training hours may vary from that when you start. Certain shifts may qualify for a shift differential on the base pay, depending on the hours and schedule.  

(Please note: these positions can be hired at the Operator I or Operator II level) 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Perform a variety of functions in the production of semiconductor devices, as well as specific process steps in the assembly and test of production units 
  • Set up and prepare work station/assembly fixtures 
  • Read and comprehend basic drawings and schematics 
  • Identify failure discrepancies per visual and/or written descriptions 
  • Utilize visual aides such as microscopes, visors, and eye loops 
  • Utilize computer hardware and software, including MS Office 
  • Collect and record data 
  • Read and comprehend instructions, short correspondences, and memos 
  • Work with various kinds of test equipment 
  • You may be required to operate UV curing systems and thermal curing ovens, as well as measure and pour chemicals, depending on the team/shift you support 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS OPERATOR I, PRODUCTION: 

  • High school diploma or GED 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS OPERATOR II, PRODUCTION: 

  • High school diploma or GED 
  • 2+ years of work experience in a production or manufacturing environment, or other highly regulated industry 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

  • Knowledge of ESD and cleanroom procedures
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment
  • Ability to hear and speak effectively before groups of customers and employees
  • Capable of multitasking, and working with cross-functional teams
  • Experience with computing rate, ratio, and percentages; as well as drawing and interpreting bar graphs 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Stand and walk extended periods(8+ hours) on production floor 
  • Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
  • Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
  • Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
  • Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

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