Mission Planner Operations SME

Cayuse Holdings•HI, Mt. Haleakala, HI

1d•$165,000 - $200,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Mission Planner Operations, SME will provide expert-level mission planning, tasking translation, operational analysis, and crew coordination to support for our client’s optical surveillance efforts. This position ensures mission tasking is translated into executable plans, monitors real-time operations, and maintains critical coordination among stakeholders while adhering to operational constraints, priorities, and requirements. This position aligns with Cayuse’s core values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by fostering technical solutions that meet customer needs, promoting teamwork, and prioritizing quality in deliverables.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, astronomy, physics, mathematics, engineering, operations research, or a related field preferred; equivalent military/space-operations experience may substitute for formal education requirements.
Site-specific mission-planner and applicable sensor qualification to be obtained post-hire.
Minimum 5 years of experience in space operations, mission planning, Space Domain Awareness (SDA), orbital analysis, sensor operations, or comparable command-and-control operations.
Demonstrated expertise in: Mission planning and task prioritization.
Demonstrated expertise in: Concepts related to optical sensors, orbital/space operations, and decision-making in time-sensitive environments.
Demonstrated expertise in: Operational reporting and collaborative crew coordination.
Top Secret/ SCI Clearance is required.
Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.
Exceptional written and verbal communication.
Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.
Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.
Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Strong leadership and operations management skills with the ability to ensure workforce integration and alignment with mission objectives.
Effective communicator and problem-solver under challenging conditions, including emergencies.
Broad knowledge of technical systems, including optical, electrical, mechanical, and classified systems.
Must be physically and mentally able to perform duties extended periods of time.
Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed to meet the demands of this position.
Must be able to establish a productive and professional workspace.

Nice To Haves

Orbital analysis or space operations training.

Responsibilities

Convert higher-headquarters directives and site tasking into executable mission plans.
Coordinate spectrum of mission activities including Space Object Identification (SOI), maneuver, launch monitoring, cislunar operations, and specialized tasks.
Evaluate mission priorities, constraints, local weather conditions, sensor status, and competing tasking requirements.
Recommend recovery actions and task prioritization adjustments for optimal mission execution.
Maintain logs, reports, planning products, and operational records in compliance with mission directives.
Execute timely documentation of operational coordination and outcomes.
Collaborate closely with operating crews, line tacticians, maintenance personnel, and system administrators.
Ensure seamless cross-functional alignment without assuming planned Sensor Operator relief duties.
Serve as the dedicated Mission Planner, ensuring uninterrupted mission planning coverage.
Facilitate coverage during absence through a separately qualified candidate or a Government-compliant replacement process.
Other duties as assigned.