Spacecraft Operations Controller (LMOC) / Active TS / Space Programs

Las Cruces, NMFull-time$51k–$82kPosted Jul 30, 2026

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking a junior-mid level Spacecraft Operations Controller to join our team at White Sands Complex (WSC) in Las Cruces, NM. You’ll join a team dedicated to mission operations of the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) which is NASA’s next step in optical communications. These optical communication capabilities use infrared lasers to send data to and from space. The technology will let NASA collect more science data and explore farther into the universe than ever before.

 

The position supports real-time operations, monitoring, and command and control of the LCRD payload from the Laser Mission Operations Center (LMOC) located at WSC.

 

This position is responsible for:

  • Prepare for providing Mission Operations Team (MOT) functions for the LCRD payload Mission Operations during post-launch power-on and operational testing at WSC.
  • Perform real-time commanding and telemetry verification of the LCRD payload.
  • Perform real-time payload state of health evaluation, trending, and analysis for first level payload sub-system engineering troubleshooting.
  • Conduct payload flight software uploads, verifying the integrity of all products and commands loaded to the payload.
  • Support real-time anomaly investigation and resolution and follow established LCRD Fault Escalation policies and procedures.
  • LCRD operations efforts to include participation in working group meetings and major reviews, mission readiness testing, mission simulations and rehearsals, and mission operational readiness exercises in preparation for launch and on-orbit commissioning.
  • Provide test engineering support to the LCRD Mission by configuring interfaces and developing test procedures, telemetry pages, system scripts (PROCs), and Operations Procedures. 
  • Primarily a day-shift position but the selected candidate must be willing to work rotating shifts, weekends and holidays on a rotational basis when required.

Qualifications

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE 

  • Bachelor or Associate degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or other related fields and 2 years of related experience in Ground/ Satellite Operations. In lieu of formal education, 4 years of additional related experience is allowable.  
  • 1+ years of experience with software scripting languages and development of automated systems
  • 1+ years of operational experience working in a virtual environment.
  • Ability to coordinate and work with multiple tasks, projects, and personnel from a variety of disciplines.
  • Must be able to travel as required (up to 20% expected in the first 12 months).
  • Must be able to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays and mandatory overtime, on a rotational basis as a part of normal shift scheduling. 
  • Must have an active Top Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain an SCI.
  • Must be a US Citizen and show proof of citizenship.
  • Must be able to maintain ability to access government worksite.

 

DESIRED EXPERIENCE

  • Active TS/SCI security clearance
  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related field.  
  • Experience with Red hat Linux
  • Experience with Virtual Environments
  • Experience in System Administration
  • Security+ Certification.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both in written and verbal forms with NASA customers, peers, upper-level management.

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range

$51,000 - $82,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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