Principal Mission Operations Engineer
You will develop, implement, and refine automation systems to support real-time mission operations and streamline launch day processes. You will own the Nova Vehicle CONOPS from launch pad evacuation through lift off, and build systems to monitor telemetry from the launch vehicle and assess real-time launch commit criteria. You'll take ownership of mission specific challenges like downrange vehicle telemetry, hardware change implementation, and operations improvements. You will work with Kent and Moses Lake teams to streamline integrated vehicle testing as a continuation into launch site processing and launch operations. You'll aggregate and synthesize engineering inputs from subject matter experts to inform critical decision-making, and collaborate closely with the Vehicle Controller, advising on launch sequence adjustments and anomaly resolution when needed. You will lead the monitoring of vehicle stages through the flight phase, coordinating smooth handoff to orbital operations or recovery teams, and drive continuous improvement of launch day CONOPS to increase operational efficiency and mission success.
Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and refine automation systems to support real-time mission operations and streamline launch day processes
- Own the Nova Vehicle CONOPS from launch pad evacuation through lift off
- Build systems to monitor telemetry from the Nova launch vehicle and assess real-time launch commit criteria
- Own the implementation of mission specific challenges like downrange vehicle telemetry, hardware change implementation and operations improvements
- Work with Kent and Moses Lake teams to streamline integrated vehicle testing as a continuation into Launch Site processing and Launch Operations
- Aggregate and synthesize engineering inputs from subject matter experts to enable and inform critical decision-making
- Collaborate closely with the Vehicle Controller, advising on launch sequence adjustments and anomaly resolution when needed
- Lead the monitoring of vehicle stages through the flight phase, coordinating smooth handoff to orbital operations or recovery teams
- Drive the continuous improvement of launch day CONOPS to increase operational efficiency and mission success
Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 8+ years of experience in mission operations, launch systems, or a related aerospace field
- Proven experience in vehicle automation, telemetry analysis, and operational command and control
- Strong problem-solving skills, especially in high-stakes, real-time environments
- Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with multidisciplinary teams and provide guidance under pressure
- Expertise in reusable launch systems
- Familiarity with mission control software and systems integration
- Experience in developing launch commit criteria and real-time response protocols
Benefits
- Equity in the form of stock options
- Comprehensive benefits program including subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Company-paid life and disability insurance
- 401(k) plan with employer match
- 4 weeks' Paid Time Off
- 10 days of holidays including an end-of-year closure
- Paid Family/Parental Leave
- On-site gym or monthly wellness stipend