Real-Time Satellite Flight Controller

Open Cosmos; Harwell; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Open Cosmos seeks a Satellite Flight Operator to join the Mission Operations team. You will run daily satellite operations, monitor health, execute planned activities and respond to anomalies, ensuring safe and reliable missions.

You will work in a real-time environment, interpret telemetry, use Unix tools, and maintain accurate logs while collaborating with a strong, mission-driven team.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of satellite subsystems and orbit behaviour.
• Ability to read and interpret telemetry and indicators.
• Experience in real-time/operational environments requiring accuracy.
• Comfort with Unix command line tools and basic scripting.
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to procedures.
• Calm, reliable under time pressure.
• Clear communication and a team-first mindset.
• Ownership for safe and reliable satellite operations.

Responsibilities

• Running daily and time-critical satellite operations.
• Monitoring telemetry, system performance and overall satellite behaviour.
• Executing planned activities using approved procedures and checklists.
• Acting as the first responder to anomalies or unexpected events.
• Following escalation paths and supporting initial fault investigation.
• Supporting operations during launch, early orbit, commissioning and end-of-life phases.
• Keeping accurate operational logs, reports and shift handovers.
• Working closely with the wider mission operations team to deliver mission objectives.
• Updating procedures, checklists and documentation as systems evolve.
• Feeding back ideas to improve how we operate and monitor our spacecraft.

Skills

Telemetry interpretation

Satellite subsystems knowledge

Unix command line

Scripting basics

Attention to detail

Clear communication

Team mindset

Ownership of operations

Calm under time pressure

Tools

Unix

Scripting basics

Job description

Open Cosmos seeks a Satellite Flight Operator to join the Mission Operations team. You will run daily satellite operations, monitor health, execute planned activities and respond to anomalies, ensuring safe and reliable missions.

You will work in a real-time environment, interpret telemetry, use Unix tools, and maintain accurate logs while collaborating with a strong, mission-driven team.