Spacecraft Mission Operations Engineer II Verified today
About Varda
Varda is accelerating commercial space infrastructure development, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable reentry capsules. We design, build, and operate our W-Series vehicles in-house, including pharmaceutical processing payloads, capsules, heat shields, and satellite buses. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind by creating products and infrastructure for the orbital economy.
About This Role
The Mission Operations Engineer II is an experienced spacecraft operator who excels as a communicator and leader. You will fully own on-orbit operations for our Winnie Spaceship and shape a unique mission framework for space operations.
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 with cross-company 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
- On-site position in El Segundo, California
- Leveling and base salary determined by job-related skills, education, experience, and performance
- Eligible for stock options and long-term cash awards
Benefits
- Flexible PTO policy plus 12 paid holidays
- 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for employees and dependents
- FSA and employer-matched HSA options
- $120 monthly wellness reimbursement
- 12 weeks of parental leave
- 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)
- Equity in fully funded space startup
- Daily lunch and twice-weekly dinner provided
- Complimentary EV charging
- Relocation support available
ITAR Requirements
This role requires access to export-controlled items. We only hire US persons: U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, or individuals admitted as refugees or granted asylum as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).