We are seeking a CubeSat Operator responsible for executing spacecraft operations across the full mission lifecycle, including nominal constellation activities, anomaly response, payload tasking, and coordination with ground segment assets. This role is operations-focused and does not require an engineering background, but demands strong platform understanding, disciplined procedural execution, and the ability to operate under high-stakes, real-time conditions.
Candidates with experience in drone/UAV operations, remote vehicle control, mission operations, or other safety-critical operational environments are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
Mission Operations & Satellite Control
- Execute spacecraft commanding and monitoring activities to support nominal and contingency operations.
- Perform formation keeping, payload tasking, and routine constellation operations based on mission requirements.
- Monitor telemetry and spacecraft health metrics to ensure safe and stable operations.
- Execute emergency procedures and contingency responses to maintain spacecraft safety and mission continuity.
- Identify, triage, root cause, and elevate anomalies; support resolution and recovery workflows.
- Support mission lifecycle operations including launch integration, LEOP, commissioning, calibration, orbital maneuvers, and routine operations.
Mission Planning & Analysis
- Perform pass analysis, geometry assessment, and mission timeline planning using tools such as: Gpredict, GMAT, STK, and internal mission planning and analysis tools.
- Interpret orbital parameters, pass behavior (azimuth/elevation), and mission geometry constraints to inform operational decisions.
- Support development and execution of mission plans and CONOPS across vehicle life cycle phases.
Ground Segment Operations
- Operate and coordinate ground station resources including local infrastructure and distributed GSaaS providers (e.g., LeafSpace, KSAT, or equivalent).
- Manage scheduling, pass coordination, data downlink workflows, and uplink command execution.
- Support telemetry, tracking, and control (TT&C) system operations and troubleshooting.
Procedures & Operational Discipline
- Follow, update, and improve operations manuals and procedures.
- Execute platform and payload activities in accordance with documented procedures and commercial operations requirements.
- Maintain situational awareness and expand unexpected behavior; demonstrate strong anomaly ownership and root-cause mindset.
- Quantify operational risk, handle uncertainty, and maintain performance under time pressure.
- Support shift-based operations including off-hours, weekends, and anomaly response periods as required.
- Work effectively with engineering, ground segment, and mission planning teams to ensure coordinated operations.
- Maintain clear operational logs, reports, and communication during nominal and contingency operations.
- Operate independently during off-hour support while maintaining strong communication with the broader team.
Minimum Qualifications
- Experience in an operations-focused environment involving remote system monitoring/control, mission operations, UAV/drone operations, or other safety-critical operational roles.
- Demonstrated ability to operate systems under high-stakes, real-time conditions with strong procedural discipline.
- Experience interpreting telemetry and monitoring system health metrics.
- Ability to internalize operational manuals and understand platform-specific behaviors, idiosyncrasies, and limitations.
- Basic understanding of orbital mechanics concepts (orbital parameters, LEO operations, pass geometry, orbit types such as SSO and mid-inclination).
- Experience with telemetry, tracking, and control systems or analogous monitoring/control platforms.
- Willingness to work shift-based schedules, including LEOP, commissioning phases, anomaly response periods, and occasional weekend support.
- Strong analytical mindset with reluctance to ignore anomalous or unusual behavior without investigation.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate in team environments while operating independently when required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with mission analysis tools such as STK, GMAT, or Gpredict.
- Experience coordinating with ground station networks or satellite communication infrastructure.
- Experience with anomaly handling, root cause analysis, and contingency operations in mission-critical environments.
- Exposure to spacecraft subsystems or space operations domains including:
- Orbital mechanics
- Attitude control or GNC systems
- Space systems engineering
- Spacecraft propulsion
- Flight software operations
- Rendezvous or proximity operations
- Experience supporting launch and early orbit operations (LEOP) or commissioning campaigns.
- Experience working in a 24/7 operational environment with on-call rotation.
- Strong familiarity with mission planning workflows and operational risk management.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and fuel support.
- Continued support for candidates currently enrolled in a master's or doctoral program in a related field.
- Opportunities for continuous professional growth and skill development.
- Engage in a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Enjoy a positive and enriching work environment, situated in a desirable location.