Mission Operations Engineer II

Quantum Space•Hawthorne, CA

1d•$105,000 - $140,000

About The Position

Quantum Space is seeking a skilled and motivated Mission Operations Engineer II to support real-time spacecraft operations, mission execution, and the performance of next-generation space systems. The role owns spacecraft commanding, telemetry analysis, operational procedure development, and anomaly resolution, working closely with mission operations, systems engineering, ground software, and mission assurance teams. It contributes to spacecraft safety, reliability, and operational success throughout the mission lifecycle, from commissioning through on-orbit operations. The position is based in Hawthorne, California. Applicants must meet U.S. Government space technology export-control eligibility requirements: be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required U.S. Department of State authorizations. The stated base salary range is $105,000–$140,000; actual offers may vary based on factors including experience, education or training, critical skills, and business considerations. Equity grants are included in the majority of full-time offers and are part of the company’s total compensation package.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
At least 2 years of experience in spacecraft operations, mission control, satellite systems engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.
Working knowledge of spacecraft subsystems, including attitude determination and control (ADCS), power, thermal, communications, and propulsion.
Hands-on experience with spacecraft telemetry analysis, command and control systems, and operational procedures.
Experience with scripting or automation tools, preferably Python, to support data analysis and operational efficiency.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to assess complex spacecraft performance issues.
Ability to make sound, methodical decisions in time-sensitive or mission-critical environments.
Excellent communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Demonstrated initiative and ownership, and ability to manage technical responsibilities with minimal supervision.
Ability to work rotating shifts, including occasional nights, weekends, or holidays, based on mission requirements.
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required U.S. Department of State authorizations to comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting on-orbit anomaly investigation and resolution.
Familiarity with operational software development, simulation environments, or mission planning tools.
Knowledge of RF systems, link budgets, orbital mechanics, or ground segment architectures.
Demonstrated ability to improve processes, build tools, or automate operational workflows.
Experience supporting launch and early orbit phases (LEOP) or spacecraft commissioning.

Responsibilities

Perform real-time spacecraft operations, including commanding, telemetry monitoring, subsystem performance assessment, and anomaly triage.
Lead development and execution of operational procedures, command products, and test plans for routine and complex mission scenarios.
Serve as a subsystem or operations lead for designated mission areas, owning trending, analysis, and performance reporting.
Support anomaly resolution through data analysis, root-cause investigation, and cross-functional engineering collaboration.
Contribute to mission planning, including pass planning, resource allocation, and long-term operational strategy.
Coordinate with ground network providers, mission assurance, and software teams to ensure readiness and reliability across the ground segment.
Support rehearsals, readiness reviews, new-spacecraft commissioning, and post-launch operations.
Mentor junior team members and contribute to training materials and knowledge transfer.