Director of Spacecraft Mission Operations
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Position Type: Full-time
About Us
BlackVe, Inc is a dynamic and innovative national security-focused space company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering excellence for our exceptional customers.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director of Spacecraft Mission Operations to lead the execution, management, and performance of multiple spacecraft missions operations. This role oversees spacecraft operations, ground system management, anomaly detection/troubleshooting, personnel management, and scheduling. You will ensure mission success across all phases of operations while strengthening our operational capabilities and supporting our rapidly growing team.
You will be required to coordinate across multidisciplinary teams, oversee real-time operations, lead mission assessments, and ensure the highest standard of quality for all mission operations activities.
You will also help build a culture that rewards innovation and disciplined operations, values rapid problem-solving, and prioritizes accountability, ownership, and collaboration within the Mission Operations team.
Key Responsibilities
- Mission Operations Leadership: Direct and oversee operations for multiple spacecraft within commercial space missions, ensuring continuous mission performance and operational excellence.
- Ground System Management: Lead management and operational use of ground systems including mission control centers, communication systems, management of ground antenna providers and supporting infrastructure.
- Anomaly Detection & Troubleshooting: Establish and oversee processes for real‑time anomaly detection, root‑cause analysis, and resolution to ensure mission continuity.
- Operations Planning & Scheduling: Develop, manage, and optimize operational schedules, timelines, and staffing to support continuous spacecraft operations.
- Personnel Management: Lead, mentor, and support Mission Operations personnel, including training, performance management, and team growth.
- Operations Documentation: Oversee documentation, standard operating procedures, mission logs, and configuration management for all mission operations activities.
- Cross‑Functional Coordination: Collaborate with engineering, program management, and external partners to ensure alignment on mission objectives and technical requirements.
- Risk Management: Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies to protect mission integrity and system performance.
- Technical Communication: Provide senior‑level reporting on mission status, risks, anomalies, and operational performance to leadership and stakeholders.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or related technical field.
- 7+ years of experience in spacecraft mission operations, with direct experience managing multi‑spacecraft constellations or commercial space missions.
- Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems, mission operations lifecycle, and ground system architectures.
- Experience leading operations personnel and managing operational schedules in a fast‑paced environment.
- Proven expertise in anomaly detection, root‑cause analysis, and troubleshooting for spacecraft and ground systems.
- Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to make high‑consequence decisions under pressure.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage across multidisciplinary engineering and operations teams.
- Demonstrated ability to build and lead high‑performing teams.
Location and Travel Requirements
This position is based in Albuquerque, NM, with occasional travel to other company locations or partner facilities as needed.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to work at the forefront of next‑generation spacecraft mission operations supporting national security and commercial space customers.
- Small, dynamic, high‑performing team in a collaborative, inclusive work environment with opportunities for leadership and professional growth.
- Competitive salary and benefits package including flexible time off; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; 401k with non‑elective company matching; and stock options.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee, or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorization from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position to hiring@blackve.us.
