Mission Operations Engineer I Verified today
About the Role
Quantum Space is seeking a Mission Operations Engineer I to support spacecraft operations, mission execution, and real-time monitoring of next-generation space systems. You will assist with spacecraft commanding, telemetry analysis, operational procedure development, and anomaly identification while working closely with mission operations, systems engineering, and ground software teams.
This position is ideal for an early-career engineer with a strong technical foundation who enjoys solving complex problems and wants hands-on experience supporting mission-critical space operations in a fast-paced environment.
What You'll Do
- Execute routine and contingency spacecraft operations under supervision, including command uplink, telemetry monitoring, and spacecraft health assessments.
- Monitor spacecraft performance in real time, identifying anomalies, off-nominal trends, and potential operational issues.
- Support the development, testing, and validation of operational procedures, command sequences, and mission products.
- Analyze spacecraft telemetry data to support performance trending, troubleshooting, and mission reporting.
- Coordinate with ground stations and network service providers to support successful spacecraft communication passes.
- Participate in mission rehearsals, operational readiness reviews, and post-pass analyses.
- Collaborate with mission operations, systems engineering, and ground software teams.
- Document operational findings, lessons learned, and recommended improvements to procedures and tools.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance mission reliability, operational efficiency, and spacecraft performance.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
- Foundational understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including attitude determination and control (ADCS), power, communications, thermal, and propulsion.
- Familiarity with scripting and data analysis tools such as Python or MATLAB.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow structured operational procedures.
- Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to remain focused and methodical during time-sensitive or critical operations.
- Willingness to learn new spacecraft systems, mission tools, and operational processes.
- Ability to work rotating shifts, including occasional nights, weekends, or holidays based on mission requirements.
Nice-to-Have Experience
- Internship or academic project experience in satellite operations, ground systems, or mission design.
- Experience working with telemetry/command systems, mission planning tools, or ground software.
- Understanding of RF communications, orbital mechanics, or command and control architectures.
- Ability to interpret data sets and develop basic automation or analysis scripts.
Compensation and Benefits
- Base salary: $90,000-$125,000
- Competitive equity grants
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Generous leave, FSA, and 401(k) matching
Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Location: Hawthorne, CA