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Astranis is seeking a Satellite Operator (Mission Operator) to join its mission operations team in San Francisco. The role involves collaborating with mission operations engineers, hardware engineers, and software engineers to write and execute standard operating procedures for safely and reliably flying spacecraft on orbit.
Key responsibilities include:
- Creating, testing, and executing satellite operations procedures covering launch, early operations, orbit raising, and nominal sustainment operations
- Monitoring system health and reporting anomalies to the engineering team for safe resolution
- Participating in training exercises to enhance the training regimen for new satellite operators
- Supporting 24/7 spacecraft operations with regular evening, overnight, and weekend shifts
The ideal candidate is highly motivated and open to learning how satellites are built, tested, and operated. While no direct satellite operation experience is required, relatable experience in complex systems is desired.
Required qualifications:
- 2+ years of professional work experience
- Process-oriented mindset with emphasis on excellence and repeatable execution
- Highly motivated, self-starting, and able to perform duties without supervision
- Passion for working in a fast-paced, collaborative, high-stakes environment
Bonus qualifications include:
- Basic understanding of satellite subsystems (hardware and software)
- Knowledge of satellite ground systems, antennas, and RF
- Familiarity with testing and troubleshooting complex systems
- Experience with software development tools such as Git
- Experience operating complex systems
- Familiarity with GEO satellites
The team operates on 3x8 hour rotating shifts (morning 0700-1500, swing 1500-2300, night 2300-0700), rotating every 2-3 months. Astranis builds advanced satellites for high orbits with five satellites currently on orbit and a backlog of over $1 billion in commercial contracts.
