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Space Technology, Aerospace, Satellite Communications

Mission Operations Engineer I

Hawthorne, CAOnsiteInternship$90,000–$125,000 /yrPosted 10 days ago

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Required skills

  • spacecraft operations
  • mission execution
  • real-time monitoring
  • space systems
  • spacecraft commanding
  • telemetry analysis
  • operational procedure development
  • anomaly identification
  • mission lifecycle
  • spacecraft health assessments

Nice to have

  • internship
  • academic project
  • satellite operations
  • ground systems
  • mission design
  • telemetry/command systems

Role summary

Quantum Space is seeking a Mission Operations Engineer I to support spacecraft operations for their next-generation space systems. This role involves assisting with spacecraft commanding, telemetry analysis, procedure development, and anomaly identification in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is an early-career engineer with a strong technical foundation, eager to gain hands-on experience in mission-critical space operations. Responsibilities include executing operations under supervision, monitoring spacecraft health, analyzing telemetry, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure mission success and reliability.

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Mission Operations Engineer I to support spacecraft operations, mission execution, and real-time monitoring of our next-generation space systems. In this role, 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.

You will play a key role in ensuring safe, reliable, and successful spacecraft operations throughout the mission lifecycle. This position is ideal for an early-career engineer who has a strong technical foundation, enjoys solving complex problems, and is eager to gain hands-on experience supporting mission-critical space operations in a fast-paced environment.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

  • 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 to support spacecraft performance and operational objectives.
  • 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 It Takes

  • 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.

    • What You’ll Get

  • Ownership – Gain hands-on experience supporting spacecraft operations and mission-critical activities that directly contribute to mission success.
  • Innovation – Work with next-generation spacecraft technologies advancing space mobility, maneuverability, and mission operations.
  • Impact – Contribute to real-world national security, civil, and commercial space missions through reliable spacecraft operations and performance monitoring.
  • Growth – Develop your technical expertise alongside experienced engineers in a collaborative, fast-paced environment with opportunities for professional development.
  • Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.

    • Location: Hawthorne, CA

    Base Salary: $90,000- 125,000

    The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.

    Additional 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.

    Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

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