Director, Satellite Operations - Hawthorne - Quantum Space

    Quantum Space
    Quantum Space Hawthorne

    2 days ago

    Description

    Who We're Looking For

    Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy in cislunar and geostationary space. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta‑V and on‑orbit maneuverability that enable customers to access, operate, and persist in orbits previously out of reach. We're building the infrastructure, vehicles, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system. Quantum Space is hiring a Spacecraft Operations Lead to plan, test, and execute operations for our Ranger vehicles from prelaunch through LEOP, commissioning, and on‑orbit operations. This role owns mission readiness, daily operations, ground system integration, and anomaly response. You'll bring deep experience in spacecraft operations and ground segment engineering, and translate that into procedures, rehearsals, and real‑time execution.

    Where You'll Make an Impact

    • Lead daily operations for Ranger vehicles across prelaunch, LEOP, commissioning, nominal operations, and end‑of‑life.
    • Develop and execute contact schedules, coordinate antenna routing, and ground station support.
    • Plan, conduct, and validate ground segment integration and test (RF chain, networks/VPNs, TT&C links, simulators, and GDS).
    • Define operational concepts, test gates, and configuration control; lead simulations and mission rehearsals.
    • Operate missions using MAX Flight Software and MAX GDS including procedure development, scripting, and telemetry/command management.
    • Lead MRRs/ORRs, maintain flight rules, and manage console checklists.
    • Coordinate anomaly triage and recovery across FSW, GNC, power/thermal, and avionics.
    • Monitor spacecraft health, power/thermal margins, attitude, and delta‑V; generate KPIs and post‑mission reports.
    • Serve as the primary operations interface with software, avionics, GNC, and program management.
    • Support FCC/ITU/NOAA licensing and spectrum compliance.
    • Build and lead a small, high‑reliability operations team.
    • Implement "Ops as Code" — automate checks, command sequences, and safing procedures.
    • Champion a blameless post‑mortem culture focused on reliability improvement.
    • Collaborate across engineering to continuously evolve mission capability.

    What It Takes

    • 5–10+ years in spacecraft mission operations with hands‑on pass planning, ground system I&T, and LEOP/commissioning experience.
    • Experience with MAX Flight Software and MAX GDS, or a comparable COTS flight and ground system.
    • Proven record developing and executing mission procedures and rehearsals.
    • Proficiency in scripting (Python, Bash) for automation and telemetry workflows.
    • Strong understanding of RF/TT&C systems and network routing.
    • Excellent communication and incident response skills.
    • S. Person per export regulations.
    • Experience with GEO transfers, high‑ΔV operations, or RPO.
    • Familiarity with STK/GMAT, MAX simulators, Prometheus/Grafana, and Jira/Confluence.
    • Background in rapid‑turn or repeat‑mission operations.
    • Experience building and mentoring ops teams.

    What You'll Get

    • Ownership – Lead real‑time spacecraft operations and define the playbook for future Quantum missions.
    • Innovation – Shape next‑generation mission control by implementing automation, simulation, and "Ops as Code."
    • Impact – Directly influence active flight systems and ensure the success of high delta‑V, on‑orbit missions.
    • Growth – Build and mentor an elite team of spacecraft operators while expanding your technical and leadership reach.
    • Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.

    Additional Requirements

    To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

    Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.


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