C3 Systems Administrator

Auroralaunchservices; Kodiak (AK); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A launch services company based in Kodiak, Alaska is seeking a C3 Systems Administrator to lead the operations of communications systems. This role will involve maintaining infrastructure, developing system roadmaps, and ensuring compliance with standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in C3 systems, experience in aerospace operations, and be able to operate under pressure. A competitive salary will be negotiated based on experience, and applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in aerospace or defense environments.
• Experience with communications, control, or mission systems operations.
• Certifications in communications or range operations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Administer and maintain all C3 systems across the spaceport.
• Develop, document, and update C3 systems roadmaps.
• Collaborate with teams to align system capabilities with operational requirements.
• Install, configure, and maintain system software ensuring security and performance.
• Apply software and hardware programming to improve system functionality.
• Support mission operations and emergency response to keep communications available.

Skills

Strong knowledge of C3 systems

Networking knowledge

Troubleshooting skills

Analytical skills

Software programming and integration

Overtime readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Electrical, or Systems Engineering

Job description

Position Description: The Command, Control, and Communications (C3) Systems Administrator, reporting to the Site Manager, leads new initiatives and ensures mission assurance for the operation of the spaceport’s communications infrastructure. This position requires a strong background in communications systems, including familiarity with related software and hardware design. The incumbent develops and maintains C3 system architecture and modifications, implements long-term communication system improvement and upgrade plans, and ensures compliance with federal procurement, cybersecurity, and communications standards and policies.

The ideal candidate will have integration experience with C3 systems in a commercial spaceport or military aerospace operations environment and must be able to perform effectively under pressure in launch and emergency operational settings, supporting emergency operations plans following mishaps.

Location: This is a Full-Time position at the Pacific Spaceport Complex – Alaska on Narrow Cape, Kodiak Island, Alaska. Some travel to AAC corporate office in Anchorage and other operational locations can be expected.

Aurora Launch Services (ALS): Aurora Launch Services is a wholly‑owned subsidiary of Alaska Aerospace, established to provide low cost, highly reliable launch services on a contract basis to both government and commercial space launch customers worldwide. The company is headquartered in Anchorage, Alaska, co‑located with Alaska Aerospace.

• 1. Administer and maintain all C3 systems across the spaceport, including telephone and broadband infrastructure, unclassified and classified networks, mission‑critical communications, radio systems, surveillance systems (radar, CCTV, AIS, ADS‑B), meteorological sensors, public announcement (PA) systems, and supporting network, server, and storage systems.
• 2. Monitor, test, and ensure continuous operability of all communication and network systems during launch campaigns and operational periods.
• 3. Develop, document, and update C3 systems roadmaps, policies, and user guides to support long‑term sustainment and upgrades.
• 4. Install, configure, and maintain system software, ensuring compatibility, security, and performance of operational systems.
• 5. Apply software programming and hardware integration skills to maintain and improve system functionality.
• 6. Support mission operations and emergency response activities, ensuring communication systems remain operational under all conditions.
• 7. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to align system capabilities with operational requirements.
• 8. Contribute to strategic and technical projects that enhance the company’s capabilities and long‑term objectives.
• 9. Maintain compliance with applicable cybersecurity, government communications, and safety regulations.
• 10. Support business development and strategic planning initiatives to strengthen and diversify.
• 11. Contribute to customer engagement and operational success through collaboration and thought leadership.
• 12. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge/Experience/Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge and experience with relevant C3 systems at a spaceport and/or government aerospace operations center.
• Working knowledge of networking, radio, and communications systems, as well as related hardware/software programming and integration.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills; ability to diagnose and resolve complex system issues under pressure.
• Knowledge and experience with software and hardware programming.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; proficiency in technical documentation.
• Extremely versatile, dedicated to efficient productivity.
• Willing and able to work extended hours, overtime, and on weekends.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related technical field (i.e. Communications, Electrical, or Systems Engineering) or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in communications, control, or mission systems operations in aerospace, defense, or similar environments.
• Certifications in communications or range operations preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance; existing clearance preferred.
• Pre‑employment background check and drug and alcohol screening required.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

It is the policy of Aurora Launch Services to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Compensation

A competitive salary and benefits package, determined upon experience level of individual, will be negotiated after an offer to hire has been given.

To Apply

Please apply online on Indeed.com and include a resume and cover letter. Professional references required. For questions call (907) 561‑3338. This position will remain open until filled.