Shift Operations Specialist/ Sensor Operator Lead

Cayuse Holdings•San Antonio, TX

9d•$120,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Shift Operations Specialist/ Sensor Operator Lead will manage the daily operations and personnel of a highly specialized team performing tasks critical to mission success at the client’s site on Diego Garcia. This role requires expert-level command of all sensor and operator stations, compliance with operational protocols, and effective crew leadership during high-stakes mission execution. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with mission planning, maintenance, and system administration teams to maintain operational readiness and ensure timely anomaly response. 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

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Astronomy, Electronics, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred. Equivalent military or mission-operations experience will be considered in lieu of formal degree.
A minimum of 5 years of experience in sensor, satellite, radar, optical telescope, command and control (C2), or space operations.
At least 2 years of experience in a leadership or instructor role, with demonstrated ability to manage high-performing teams under dynamic conditions.
Top Secret/ SCI Clearance is required.
A valid passport is required, along with completed overseas medical and dental clearance.
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.
Demonstrated expertise in staff management, training, customer relations, and dynamic problem-solving in high-stress scenarios.

Nice To Haves

Crew-lead or instructor qualification

Responsibilities

Lead the Diego Garcia operating crew and oversee execution of mission tasking.
Maintain and update shift logs and operational status reports to ensure clear communication of current and future mission activities.
Enforce procedural compliance, safety protocols, and crew discipline to meet operational standards.
Maintain a working knowledge of all operator stations to provide on-the-spot oversight, guidance, and training.
Respond promptly to anomalies to minimize mission impact and ensure quick resolutions.
Coordinate with mission planning, maintenance, and system administration to ensure seamless operational execution.
Act as primary trainer and mentor for other crew members, ensuring cross-functional proficiency across all positions.
Enforce established operating procedures and security requirements while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols.
Ensure proper scheduling of same-LCAT Sensor Operator backups from the operator pool for mission continuity.
Serve exclusively in the dedicated crew-lead role, with no planned cover-down duties as a lower-classification Sensor Operator or Mission Planner.
Make calm and informed decisions during high-pressure, mission-critical situations.
Deliver timely reporting of any operational anomalies or mission impacts to stakeholders.
Other duties as assigned.