Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer Science engineering discipline.
5+ years in a real-time operations role for complex, high-stakes operations.
3+ years developing software tools in Python, JavaScript, and/or HTML.
Familiarity with spacecraft Avionics, GNC, Software, and Thermal design practices.
5+ years of experience with spacecraft systems preferred.
Responsibilities
Develop, coordinate, execute, and lead on-orbit missions for Varda.
Own the complete ops development cycle for mission-specific payloads.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance mission operations.
Automate operational tasks by creating web tools.
Scale operational capabilities to accommodate increased flight frequency.
Benefits
Flexible PTO policy plus 12 paid holidays.
100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for employees and dependents.
$120/month wellness reimbursement for fitness expenses.
12 weeks of parental leave with supplemental disability for CA mothers.
401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match, immediately vested.
Full Job Description
About This Role
The Senior Mission Operations Engineer is an experienced spacecraft operator. They are exceptional communicators, adept leaders, and a jack-of-all trades capable of applying cross-discipline engineering to bespoke solutions. An ideal candidate is someone passionate to work in a startup environment where you will have the opportunity to fully own on-orbit operations for our Winnie Spaceship and mold a unique new mission framework for operations in space. 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.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, preferably Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer Science.
5+ years of experience in a real time operations role on a complex and high consequence operation.
3+ years of experience developing software tools in Python, JavaScript, and/or HTML.
Familiarity with Avionics, GNC, Software, and Thermal design practices for spacecraft.
Preferred Skills and Experience
5+ years of experience with spacecraft systems.
Previous operator experience in a leadership role.
Previous experience with Git and Atlassian products.
Familiarity with ground stations networks.
Pay Range
Salary range: Senior: $140,333 - $179,314/ per year.
This role is on-sitein El Segundo, CA.
Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance.
You will be eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards.
Benefits
Consider your benefits covered for launch. At Varda, we invest in benefits and perks that support your health, financial well-being, and life beyond work. Benefits vary by position, with packages designed specifically for our regular full-time employees and interns.
Regular Full-Time Positions:
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
Intern Positions:
Health & Wellness
Paid observed holidays
100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
$120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
Financial
$20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
Up to $4,000 gross up in relocation support, if eligible
Up to $850 commute credit through Lyft or car rental reimbursement, if eligible
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
