Mission Operations Engineer (Early)

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. 

We are seeking a 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. You will also help develop, test, and maintain the software tools and infrastructure that enable scalable, efficient spacecraft operations. This is a hands-on role where you’ll balance flying satellites with developing the systems that make mission operations more reliable, autonomous, and productized for customers.

Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and own mission operations software tools, analysis pipelines, and infrastructure (e.g., orbital dynamics, burn reconstruction, performance trending, fleet management).

• Develop, validate, and execute mission plans and operations products, including onboard and ground-based automation

• Commission spacecraft during launch and early operations phases.

• Monitor satellite health and performance in real-time; respond to anomalies and lead safing/recovery efforts.

• Collaborate with internal engineering teams and external customers to adapt operations products to mission needs

Requirements:

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

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

• 1-3 years of experience in spacecraft operations, mission control, or software development for real-time systems

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Rust

• Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time or distributed systems

• Strong understanding of mission operations concepts and spacecraft subsystems (propulsion, avionics, communications, etc.)

• Familiarity with mission operations software and tools (e.g., STK, GMAT, custom pipelines)

• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure

• Strong communication, teamwork, and customer-facing skills

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.