Spacecraft Mission Operations Engineer

What You Will Do (Job Responsibilities)

• Develop, coordinate, execute, and lead Varda's on-orbit missions.
• Own the full ops development cycle for mission-unique payloads, from the creation of mission profiles through execution.
• Work with teams across the company to continuously improve upon mission operations and ensure mission success.
• Automate and eliminate operational burden by building webtools.
• Scale up Varda's operational capabilities to support a growing flight cadence.

What You Will Bring (Basic Qualifications)

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, preferably Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer Science.
• 2+ years of experience in a real time operations role on a complex and high consequence operation.
• 1+ years of experience developing software tools in Python, JavaScript, and/or HTML.
• Familiarity with Avionics, GNC, Software, and Thermal design practices for spacecraft.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience with spacecraft systems.
• Previous operator experience in a leadership role.
• Previous in-orbit spacecraft operations experience.
• Previous experience with Git and Atlassian products.
• Familiarity with ground stations networks.

Compensation

Salary range: $120,000 - $170,000 annually. This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA. Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance. Offer compensation also includes the ability to receive stock options under the Company's Equity Incentive Plan.

Benefits

Varda offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, financial well-being, and a high-quality workplace experience. Below is an overview of what full-time employees receive:

• Health & Wellness: Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays; 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options; Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance; $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses; 12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers); Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic; Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents.
• Financial & Retirement: Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up; 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested); $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement; Relocation support for new hires, if needed.
• Workplace Experience & Perks: Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly; Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations; Complimentary EV charging.