Senior Associate - Satellite Operations

About the Role

FADA is looking to add a Senior Associate to its Satellite Operations team. This entry-level position is ideal for recent graduates aiming to develop their career in satellite operations. The successful candidate will assist in managing satellite command, control, and health monitoring while working under close supervision from senior operations engineers. The role involves direct participation in daily satellite passes, investigating anomalies, and gradually becoming capable of independently managing all phases of satellite missions. Regular international travel to ground stations, partner sites, and training events is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in executing mission plans and continuously monitor satellite health during both routine and critical operational phases.
• Perform daily satellite pass activities, including preparation before passes, real-time monitoring during passes, and generating post-pass reports and logs.
• Collaborate with the mission ground segment team for planning inputs, coordinating pass schedules, and ensuring successful data capture.
• Carry out established operational procedures for routine missions and suggest process improvements informed by operational experience.
• Maintain detailed operational documentation such as logs, shift handovers, anomaly reports, and configuration records.
• Support upkeep of mission documentation including operations plans and manuals.
• Take part in readiness exercises including campaigns, simulations, rehearsals, and the commissioning of new capabilities.
• Aid senior engineers by investigating anomalies, conducting trend analyses, and reviewing telemetry data.
• Engage in international travel to ground stations, partner and supplier locations, and participate in external training programs.
• Contribute to shift rotations during critical mission phases and participate in the team's on-call schedule.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related technical field.
• Between zero and two years of experience, including internships, university satellite projects, graduate placements, or participation in CubeSat programs.
• Previous exposure to real-time operational or control room environments is preferred.
• Basic understanding of mission control systems encompassing telemetry monitoring, command execution, and mission planning is desirable.

Skills and Interests

• Fundamental knowledge of orbital mechanics principles.
• Interest in Earth Observation missions with an understanding of payload operations, tasking workflows, and constraints related to data acquisition.
• Proficiency or interest in scripting or automation tools to support telemetry analysis and operational procedures.
• Strong attention to detail, disciplined operational approach, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to thrive in structured, time-sensitive environments.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally as required.