Satellite Operations Controller

POSITION SUMMARY:
Metis Technology Solutions is seeking a highly skilled and disciplined Aerospace Spacecraft Operations Controller to join our mission-critical Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) aerospace team. In this role, you will execute real-time spacecraft payload commands, monitor telemetry, manage ground control systems, and ensure the health and safety of an orbital asset throughout its entire lifecycle. This position demands sharp problem-solving capabilities, strict adherence to procedural checklists, and flexibility to support continuous operations via a rotating shift schedule. The position supports real-time operations, monitoring, and command and control of the LCRD payload from the Laser Mission Operations Center (LMOC) located at the White Sands Complex (WSC) in Las Cruces, NM.

MAJOR JOB ACTIVITIES:

• Perform real-time satellite payload operations as a console operator, including configuring, testing, and controlling ground equipment during all mission phases.
• Support overall system readiness, mission planning, preparation, execution, and evaluation for satellite payload on-orbit operations, including end-of-life retirement and disposal.
• Conduct task scheduling, data trending, performance analysis, real-time operations tracking, and resolve LCRD payload anomalies.
• Assist in developing, reviewing, and maintaining mission-specific documentation, including SOPs, handbooks, support plans, Operations Directives, and test plans.
• Optimize acquisition, tracking, commanding, and telemetry for multiple operational customers; resolve real-time conflicts.
• Implement anomaly response plans during critical events, participate in tiger-team discussions, propose and evaluate recovery actions, and generate comprehensive anomaly reports.
• Continuously evaluate spacecraft, payload, and ground systems status to ensure compliance with mission and safety requirements.
• Provide occasional 24/7 mission support, including rotating shifts, nights, holidays, and weekends.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field, and 2 years of direct satellite operations experience, or equivalent military operations experience in command and control, intelligence, or operations management.
• In lieu of formal education, 4 years of additional related experience is allowable.

Security Clearance:

• Must possess an active Top Secret (TS) security clearance with the ability to obtain Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) eligibility.
• Must be a US Citizen and show proof of citizenship.
• Must be able to maintain ability to access government worksite.

Technical Skills:

• Proven problem-solving skills with strict adherence to technical procedures, operational checklists, and emergency contingency plans.
• Ability to operate as an effective, dependable, and cohesive team member in high-stakes environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical data and status updates under time-sensitive constraints.

Worksite:

• Must be physically located at the White Sands Complex in Las Cruces, New Mexico. This is not a remote position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Active TS/SCI security clearance.
• 5+ years of dedicated experience with space/satellite operations and/or complex military operations.
• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline.
• Prior experience operating satellite ground systems, telemetry architectures, or satellite tracking networks.

EEOE, including disability/vets.

Must be a U.S. Citizen.