Director, Space Operations

True Anomaly•Colorado Springs, CO

3d•$195,000 - $240,000•Onsite

About The Position

A new space race has begun. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build innovative technology that solves the next generation of engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges for space security and sustainability. OUR MISSION The peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all. OUR VALUES Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together YOUR MISSION Space is no longer a sanctuary it's a contested domain where adversaries are rapidly advancing their capabilities. As Director of Space Operations, you will stand at the frontline of space security, leading the team that operates True Anomaly's constellation and executes some of the most technically challenging missions ever attempted on-orbit. You'll command an elite cadre of space operations engineers and analysts who don't just monitor satellites, they hunt threats, execute precision rendezvous operations, and deliver actionable intelligence that protects critical space assets. This isn't traditional satellite operations. This is the future of space warfare, and you'll be writing the playbook while executing high-stakes missions that directly impact national security. If you've ever wanted to lead operations that matter, where every decision counts and the mission is real, this is it.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Space Studies, or related technical field
10+ years of experience in spacecraft operations, with at least 5 years in leadership roles
Proven track record leading multi-satellite operations, rendezvous and proximity operations, or space situational awareness missions
Deep understanding of astrodynamics, orbital mechanics, space control operations, and spacecraft subsystems
Experience managing real-time mission operations in high-stakes, time-critical environments
Demonstrated ability to build, lead, and develop technical teams
Strong strategic thinking with ability to balance operational demands, technical innovation, and team development
Excellent communication skills with ability to brief senior leadership, customers, and cross-functional teams
Active TS/SCI clearance or ability to obtain and maintain

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Space Studies, Operations Research, or related field
Background in military space operations, particularly Space Force or Air Force space operations squadrons
Experience with on-orbit servicing, space domain awareness, or defensive space operations
Track record developing operational concepts and TTPs for emerging space mission areas
Familiarity with agile software development, DevOps practices, and modern mission operations architectures
Experience with DoD test and evaluation processes
Understanding of ITAR/export control compliance in operational environments

Responsibilities

Mission Operations Leadership
Lead and grow the Space Operations team, including space operations engineers and analysts
Own mission execution across all phases: LEOP, commissioning, on-orbit operations, contingency operations, and end-of-life
Act as the senior operational decision authority during mission execution, anomalies, and time-critical events
Establish and enforce operational standards, procedures, and discipline consistent with flight safety and mission assurance best practices
Develop and implement operational concepts, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for spacecraft operations and RPO missions
Technical & Strategic Oversight
Define and execute the long-term space operations strategy aligned with company growth, constellation scale, and mission complexity
Develop scalable CONOPS, operations architectures, staffing models, and automation strategies to support expanding mission portfolios
Oversee orbit determination, maneuver planning, conjunction assessment, and spacecraft performance monitoring
Guide the development of automation tools, mission planning software, and analytical capabilities to enhance operational efficiency
Provide subject matter expertise to ground system development, flight software design, and GNC/autonomy architecture decisions
Lead post-mission analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to evolve operational processes and capabilities
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with engineering, product, and software development teams to translate operational needs into technical requirements
Collaborate with business development and program management to shape customer missions and operational service offerings
Support developmental and operational test planning, user acceptance testing, and requirements definition for mission operations software
Interface with government customers, partners, and stakeholders on operational concepts and mission execution
Organizational Development
Build and mentor a diverse, high-performing operations team capable of executing missions in high-pressure environments
Establish training programs, operational procedures, flight rules, and certification standards for operations personnel
Foster a culture of operational excellence, innovation, and continuous learning
Develop career pathways and technical growth opportunities for operations team members