International Space Station Flight Controller

Barrios Technology•Houston, TX

About The Position

Barrios Technology is an engineering solutions partner with more than 45 years of experience supporting NASA and the commercial space industry. We deliver innovative engineering, software, and technology integration services across NASA centers nationwide. Barrios prides itself on a people-focused culture that values creativity, diversity, professional growth, and a healthy work–life balance. We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. Bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for support of the International Space Station. Currently there is an exciting opportunity for an International Space Station Flight Controller to join the Barrios team at Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX. This posting is for two International Space Station (ISS) Flight Controller positions. The applicant will have the opportunity to interview with both teams. An individual in this position will work as either a Communications RF On-Board Networks Utilization Specialist (CRONUS) or Environmental and Thermal Operating Systems (ETHOS) flight controller.The CRONUS Flight Controller serves as a technical expert for the ISS Command and Data Handling and Communications and Tracking Systems. Flight controllers with the CRONUS call sign are responsible for operating the communications and command systems onboard ISS from a flight control console located in the Mission Control Center (MCC) Houston. These individuals are also responsible for training astronauts, cosmonauts, and peers on those systems. Personnel will be expected to complete NASA led flight controller and instructor certifications for this area of expertise.Initial training and duties will be as an entry-level flight controller often working evening, night and weekend shifts during non-complex operations. After a period of time (usually 1 to 2 years) as an MPSR, the employee will be trained as a FCR and/or as an Instructor. As a FCR, the individual will work primarily day shifts, complex operations, and on-call during other shifts. As an Instructor the individual will support shifts as needed, develop training materials, and instruct astronauts and flight controllers. It is anticipated that personnel will eventually achieve all 3 certifications (MPSR, FCR and Instructor).

Requirements

Bachelor's of Science Degree or anticipate graduation within the next 2 months (start date January 2026) in Physics, Mathematics or Engineering (ABET)
Knowledge of engineering principles and the ability to apply them to real-time operations is essential
Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, leadership, teamwork, technical, and administrative skills are mandatory
Candidate must have a demonstrated ability to plan, lead, and coordinate a wide range of tasks
Candidate must demonstrate the ability to progress through flight controller and instructor certifications
Candidate must be able to apply technical knowledge and operations concepts to exercise effective decision making and initiative in a real-time and fast-paced operational environment.
Candidate should be a self-starter who excels in a dynamic environment that requires him/her to work effectively both alone or as part of a team
Candidate is required to pass a standard flight controller physical examination and pass security clearances
Shift work (nights, weekends, and holidays) is required
Candidate must be able to support infrequent travel domestically or internationally
Successful candidates must be a US Citizen and be able to apply for and successfully receive and maintain security clearance per eligibility requirements

Nice To Haves

Russian, Japanese, or European language skills are a plus.
Understanding of personal computers and LAN architecture including routers, and wireless communication devices desired for specific flight control assignments
Previous experience in flight control, technical integration, or systems engineering is highly desired
Excellent communication (in both written and verbal), integration, coordination, and presentation skills
Excellent interpersonal and team working skills
Demonstrated ability to work well in a team and independently
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint).

Responsibilities

Maintaining a safe environment for astronauts onboard ISS
Monitoring of real-time status and performance of the ISS systems
Controlling ISS system operations from mission control
Reporting status and anomalies to mission managers
Determining mission impacts and implementing corrective actions from malfunctions
Test and verification of operational products and analysis
Integrating requirements with other systems and organizations
Development of lesson plans and instruction materials
Conduct of lessons in classrooms, in trainers and simulators
Conduct of onboard training sessions
Conduct of crew and flight controller evaluations
Writing training facility requirements