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Spacecraft Mission Operations Engineer II Verified today

Varda Space · El Segundo, CA · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-19
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About Varda

Varda accelerates commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable reentry capsules. The W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including pharmaceutical processing payloads, capsules, C-PICA heat shields, and satellite buses.

About This Role

The Mission Operations Engineer II is an experienced spacecraft operator who is an exceptional communicator, adept leader, and jack-of-all-trades. You will fully own on-orbit operations for our Winnie Spaceship and mold a unique 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 with teams across the company to continuously improve mission operations and ensure mission success.
  • Automate and eliminate operational burden by building webtools.
  • Scale up Varda's operational capabilities to support growing flight cadence.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, preferably Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer Science.
  • 2+ years experience in a real-time operations role on a complex and high consequence operation.
  • 1+ years 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 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 in El Segundo, California. Leveling and base salary determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance. Eligible for stock options and/or long-term cash awards.

Benefits

Flexible PTO policy plus 12 paid holidays. 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options. 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested). Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up. $120/month wellness reimbursement, $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement, relocation support. Fully stocked kitchen with daily lunch and twice-weekly dinner provided. Company and team-bonding events. Complimentary EV charging.