The Position
With locations outside Washington, DC, and in Silicon Valley, TrustPoint is seeking a full-time Mission Operations / Ground Software Lead to own the architecture and development of an automation-first mission operations system for a rapidly scaling satellite constellation. You will build and lead the MOS software team, guide critical build-versus-buy decisions, and deliver the mission planning and operational capabilities needed to support TrustPoint's first 20 satellites and future growth to hundreds of vehicles.
We'll Expect You To:
- Own the Mission Operations System (MOS) architecture and drive the build-vs-buy-vs-hybrid decision for operating a fleet scaling from 20 to 400 satellites and 4 to 100 LEONs sites, designed automation-first from day one.
- Stand up and lead the MOS software team, and own the flight-dynamics make/buy call for the constellation.
- Own contact scheduling and mission planning across the constellation and ground-station network.
- Deliver a 60-90 day build/buy/hybrid recommendation (including flight dynamics) as your first output in the role.
- Get MOS operationally ready to support the first 20 satellites by the end of 2027.
We'll Expect You To Have:
- 10+ years of experience in satellite operations, ground systems, or mission operations software, at a principal or senior level.
- Direct experience with constellation-scale ground/telemetry-and-command (T&C) architecture, not just single-satellite operations.
- Demonstrated ability to make and defend build-vs-buy technology decisions under time pressure.
We'd Like to See:
- Experience designing or operating "lights-out" / automation-first ground systems rather than heavily manual operations centers.
- Familiarity with flight dynamics concepts (orbit determination, station-keeping, conjunction avoidance) even if you won't personally implement them.
- Experience scaling a ground segment from a handful of vehicles to a large fleet.
Cultural Fit
- Thrive in a start-up environment
- Effective communication style that instills a culture of optimism and positivity
- Sense of humor and ability to proactively problem solve.
- Encourages colleagues to think and plan strategically while executing well tactically.
- Works well with all company levels and disciplines (i.e. Legal, HR, etc.).
- Willing to "roll up sleeves" in a new venture, working closely with colleagues.
Compensation and Benefits
The selected candidate will be competitively compensated with salary, equity (stock options), and standard benefits.
