Mission Operations Engineer Verified today
About the Role
You will own all aspects of operating Apex's satellites, covering mission planning, onboard and ground-based automation, fault protection, anomaly response, and long-term mission success. You'll work closely with internal engineering teams and external customers to adapt Apex's productized approach to each mission's needs, while helping shape processes, products, and spacecraft designs. This role requires strong technical depth in spacecraft systems and mission operations, plus the ability to lead critical responses under pressure.
Your Responsibilities
- Develop, validate, and execute mission plans and operations products for flight vehicles
- Own the roadmap, processes, and operations products for one of Apex's satellite bus lines
- Lead spacecraft commissioning during launch and early operations
- Operate and monitor satellites in real time, including anomaly detection, safing, and recovery
- Drive fault protection strategies and automation for onboard and ground systems
- Analyze telemetry and mission data to assess spacecraft health, performance, and outcomes
- Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve anomalies and improve system reliability
- Standardize mission operations practices across spacecraft programs
- Serve as a technical resource and mentor for junior engineers
Requirements
- U.S. Person status required (ITAR/export control access)
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
- 3+ years of direct mission operations experience, including mission planning, commissioning, and anomaly resolution
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Rust
- Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time and distributed systems
- Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems (propulsion, avionics, communications, etc.)
- Experience with telemetry data analysis, automation, and mission operations software
- Knowledge of satellite operations software (e.g., STK, GMAT, or similar)
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure
- Strong communication, teamwork, and customer-facing abilities
Full-Time Benefits
- Equity in Apex
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents, plus $100k life insurance
- Vacation starting at 15 days, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
- 401(k) with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
- 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
- Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
- Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
- Full workspace setup and tools
- In-person collaboration at Playa Vista office with flexible work integration
Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and market alignment. Base pay and stock options determined case by case based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity.