Flight Controller – Mission Systems & Operations

About the role

MDA Space is seeking robotic Mission Systems & Operations Flight Controllers to join our Robotics & Space Operations team in Houston, Texas. Our team has extensive experience in space flight operations, particularly in the context of the iconic Canadarm programs, including Space Shuttle and International Space Station robotics and operations support.

Responsibilities

• Support a flight operations team and make decisions which can have consequences for human lives and multi-billion dollar commercial and international space assets.
• Help to manage risk in building a mission and resolving issues pre-flight and real-time.
• Make decisions during spaceflight missions and manage robotics assets, ground resources and associated payload operations to ensure crew and vehicle safety.
• Support development of human and unmanned spaceflight missions through coordination with programs, technical discipline experts, the CSA/NASA Astronaut Office, safety organizations, international partners, commercial customers, Payloads Operations, and other mission-specific stakeholders.
• Define and enforce user centric design principles across all aspects of space & ground robotic system software and hardware through coordination with technical teams, definition of requirements, testing, and support of agile development cycles.
• Develop and evaluate mission objectives according to programmatic guidelines and constraints. Help to develop and execute Flight Plans according to programmatic mission requirements. Support the enforcement of Mission Rules to ensure crew and vehicle safety.
• Support the development, coordination, and execution of testing for certification of flight readiness of space hardware, software, and ground systems.
• Support the definition, development, certification, and approval for flight execution of all needed operational procedures, manuals, and flight rules for operating critical space hardware.
• Support the determination and implementation of a course of action for contingency situations in the areas of robotic systems and dynamic vehicle interaction, and ground systems to resolve malfunctions and restore the mission to a normal operational state.
• Maintain program visibility at the customer level through regular technical, management, and progress meetings.
• Liaise with customers to maintain effective relationships to instill and enhance the customer's confidence in MDA's quality systems and products.
• Demonstrate leadership across the organization; promoting common core values.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of space flight operations experience – controlling mission critical systems in a human spaceflight environment.
• Minimum 5 years direct experience in simulations, or training of space flight, military or other safety/mission-critical hardware and/or software.
• Familiarity with the Mobile Servicing System (Canadarm2 and Dextre) and International Space Station operations.
• Expertise in some of MSS hardware elements.
• Strong robotics educational background and/or interest in the field.
• Familiarity with human spaceflight safety protocols and best practices, including risk assessment and hazard identification.
• Experience in flight operations or mission control, preferably with a focus on human spaceflight. Alternatively, experience in satellite space operations would also be an asset.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to make quick and accurate decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical information to a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Familiarity with software and tools used in flight operations, such as mission control software and telemetry systems.
• To work in a team environment and collaborate effectively with flight controllers, engineers, and astronauts.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and be available for emergency situations as required.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety in all aspects of the job.
• Familiarity with NASA and Flight Operations culture and processes.
• Bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in engineering or technical field.
• Experience with government space agency programs.

Qualifications

• Results-oriented and exhibits excellent critical thinking.
• Strives to provide customers/clients with personalized and efficient service.
• Able to cope with significant workload peaks.
• Able to travel as required.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Team player demonstrating a high level of integrity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Conflict management skills in a multi-disciplinary environment.

Benefits

MDA Space provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA Space, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including; extended healthcare and flexible drug plans, dental and vision benefits, disability income protection, life insurance, group retirement savings plans; and an employee and family assistance program.

Pay

TBD

Schedule

TBD

Benefits

TBD

Comments/Special Considerations

Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR.

Equal Opportunity Statement

MDA Space is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity.

Accommodations

MDA Ltd. is proud to provide accommodation(s) during the recruitment process. Should you require any accommodations, please indicate this on your application/cover letter and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.