Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. 

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Mission Operations Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own all aspects of operating our satellites—covering mission planning, onboard and ground-based automation, fault protection, anomaly response, and long-term mission success. You will work closely with both internal engineering teams and external customers to adapt our productized approach to each mission’s needs, while helping shape our processes, products, and spacecraft designs. This role requires strong technical depth in spacecraft systems and mission operations, as well as the ability to lead critical responses under pressure.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, validate, and execute mission plans and operations products for flight vehicles.

• Own the roadmap, processes, and operations products for one of Apex’s satellite bus lines.

• Lead spacecraft commissioning during launch and early operations.

• Operate and monitor satellites in real time, including anomaly detection, safing, and recovery.

• Drive fault protection strategies and automation for both onboard and ground systems.

• Analyze telemetry and mission data to assess spacecraft health, performance, and outcomes.

• Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve anomalies and improve system reliability.

• Standardize mission operations practices across spacecraft programs.

• Serve as a technical resource and mentor for junior engineers.

Requirements:

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data