Flight Operations Lead at Space Machines Company

COMPANY DETAILS

Space Machines Company (SMC) is an Australian start-up developing in-space logistics and transportation capabilities to cost-effectively insert small satellites into desired low earth orbits (LEO), geostationary earth orbits (GEO) and lunar orbits. SMC vehicles will grow in future to maintain, refuel, repair and decommission satellites and other spacecraft.

THE ROLE

In this Adelaide based position, you will lead the flight operations of our spacecraft, including flight planning and preparation activities, ground segment readiness, and in-flight spacecraft operation and control to deliver efficient, effective and safe flight operations whilst ensuring mission success for our customers and partners. 

The role will include:

1. Lead the overall Flight Operations Team, to ensure reliable and safe operations of our spacecraft, and deliver customer value through operations. 
2. Preparation of operational documentation and flight procedures (Flight Operational Handbook, Mission Operations Plan, Commissioning and Decommissioning Plans, etc);
3. Lead commissioning, Launch and Early Operations Phase activities and routine operations;
4. Perform trend and performance analysis of the spacecraft and payload, and investigate anomalies;
5. Participate in the spacecraft operations real time, potentially including extended hours during critical operations
6. Provide inputs and review the definition of system and satellite operational concepts;
7. Review onboard and space to ground interface specifications as well as support the definition of tools and processes;
8. Develop automated processes to operate spacecraft.
9. Participation in forward planning and incident response.
10. Other duties as required

We are looking for someone who is inspired by a challenge, will help grow our company capability, and remain flexible to use their skillset to drive outcomes for the company. 

PROFILE

Ideally, you would have a technical or engineering background in the space or related industry, combined with 5+ years of operations experience. You will have an strong understanding of spacecraft systems, potentially with a background in one or more spacecraft subsystems design and manufacture. 

You will need to engage with spacecraft engineering and technical teams including in the spacecraft design phase, as well as customers on flight operational considerations. You will have knowledge of mission planning, orbital flight dynamics and flight operations, preferably with the ability to develop automation through your knowledge of software scripting languages. 

You will need the ability to work in a start-up environment and grow with us as our capabilities expand. Communication and stakeholder management skills will be key to the success of this role, and we expect you to be a pro-active, creative, enthusiastic and results oriented. You will have the ability to lead a small team, and motivate them to deliver against operational needs. 

Some interstate and international travel may be required for the role. The ability to obtain an Australian Defence security clearance will be a benefit, but not essential.