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Space Mission Operations Engineer II Verified today

Varda Space · El Segundo, CA · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-08
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About Varda

Varda is building commercial space infrastructure for in-orbit manufacturing. We design and operate our own W-Series vehicles, including pharmaceutical processing payloads, reentry capsules, C-PICA heat shields, and satellite buses. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind by creating products and infrastructure so space can directly benefit life on Earth.

About This Role

The Mission Operations Engineer II is an experienced spacecraft operator. You will be an exceptional communicator and capable leader, applying cross-discipline engineering to solve unique mission challenges. You will fully own on-orbit operations for our Winnie Spaceship and shape a new mission framework for operations in space.

Responsibilities

  • Develop, coordinate, execute, and lead Varda's on-orbit missions.
  • Own the full ops development cycle for mission-unique payloads, from mission profile creation through execution.
  • Work across teams to continuously improve mission operations and ensure mission success.
  • Automate and eliminate operational burden by building webtools.
  • Scale up operational capabilities to support growing flight cadence.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline (preferably Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer Science).
  • 2+ years of experience in a real-time operations role on a complex and high-consequence operation.
  • 1+ years of experience developing software tools in Python, JavaScript, and/or HTML.
  • Familiarity with Avionics, GNC, Software, and Thermal design practices for spacecraft.

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • 3+ years of experience with spacecraft systems.
  • Previous operator experience in a leadership role.
  • Previous in-orbit spacecraft operations experience.
  • Previous experience with Git and Atlassian products.
  • Familiarity with ground station networks.

Compensation and Location

Salary range: $119,543 to $152,749 per year (leveled by job-related skills, education, experience, and performance). This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA. You will be eligible for stock options and/or long-term cash awards.

Benefits

Health and Wellness: Flexible PTO plus 12 paid holidays. 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA. Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance. $120/month wellness reimbursement. 12 weeks parental leave with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers. Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic. Sponsored One Medical memberships.

Financial and Retirement: Substantial equity in a fully funded space startup. 401(k) with 6% employer match (immediately vested). $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement. Relocation support for new hires.

Workplace: Fully stocked kitchen with daily lunch and twice-weekly dinner. Company and team-bonding events. Complimentary EV charging.

ITAR Requirements

This role requires access to export-controlled items. We hire only US persons: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, or individuals admitted as refugees or granted asylum. Varda participates in E-Verify.