Operations Engineer III, RPO Mission Planner

True Anomaly•Colorado Springs, CO

2h•$125,000 - $170,000•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 We are seeking an experienced Operations Engineer to support advanced satellite rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO). This role will focus on mission planning, real-time execution, anomaly resolution, and post-mission analysis. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of orbital mechanics, spacecraft operations, and mission safety principles, while leveraging coding and automation skills to optimize operations and support complex RPO missions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field
5+ years of spacecraft operations experience, preferably including rendezvous and proximity operations
Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems, and flight dynamics
Proficiency in programming/scripting languages such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or similar
Experience with mission planning tools, simulation environments, and telemetry analysis
Proven ability to work effectively in high-pressure, real-time mission environments
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Eligible for DoD Secret or TS/SCI clearance

Nice To Haves

Experience with open-loop and closed-loop spacecraft operations
Prior experience in multi-satellite missions, RPO, or on-orbit servicing mission

Responsibilities

Plan, simulate, and execute RPO mission scenarios, including orbital transfers, approach, and station-keeping maneuvers
Monitor spacecraft telemetry and health in real-time during operations; identify anomalies and support mitigation
Develop new RPO tactics to meet mission objectives
Develop and maintain operational procedures, flight rules, and checklists for RPO activities
Collaborate with mission engineering, systems engineering, and GNC/AA teams to ensure mission readiness
Conduct post-mission analysis and lessons-learned sessions to continuously improve operational processes
Support development and integration of automation and mission planning tools to enhance mission reliability
Conduct orbit state determination for cooperative, non-cooperative, and uncooperative SV's and derive intent