Flight Operations Manager-Spacecraft Mission Operations

Flight Operations Manager

York Space Systems was founded to radically improve spacecraft affordability and reliability, transforming, and enabling next-generation space mission operations worldwide. Today, York is one of the most innovative aerospace companies, specializing in end-to-end customer solutions and the rapid production of spacecraft platforms. York's complete Space Segment Solution includes spacecraft production, payload integration, system integration & test, launch services, ground segment services, and mission operations, enabling customers to leverage York's existing technology solutions to get to orbit rapidly and responsively. York Space Systems is seeking a Flight Operations Manager (FOM) to provide functional leadership and oversight for on-orbit operations, supporting day-to-day mission activities for multiple spacecraft missions. The FOM will be responsible for managing the 24/7 mission operations schedule, leading a team of operators, and ensuring high performance and operational readiness for all on-orbit activities, to include anomaly resolution. The FOM will also perform key managerial duties such as conducting performance reviews, facilitating regular one-on-one check-ins, and handling budgeting and compensation (including incentive pays such as shift differentials and holiday pay). The FOM will report to the Mission Operations Director.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct leadership for a team of on-orbit operators, ensuring adequate staffing and skill coverage for a rotating shift schedule (including day, swing, and night shifts)
• Conduct performance reviews, manage SMART goals, and hold regular one-on-one check-ins with team members to ensure individual growth, engagement, and alignment with operational objectives
• Oversee pay administration, including calculating and submitting incentive pay (shift differentials, holiday pay) and making salary adjustments as required
• Coordinate onboarding, training, and professional development for all team members in line with company policies and operational needs
• Maintain the budget for the on-orbit operations team
• Establish and track KPIs for the operations team, ensuring team performance aligns with organizational goals
• Develop and sustain operational readiness for the Mission Operations Center (MOC) by ensuring all on-orbit operations are fully supported and effectively managed
• Establish, enforce, and maintain operations policies, ensuring compliance with internal standards
• Directly interface with internal teams, customers, and program management to maintain spacecraft health, resolve operational anomalies, and coordinate mission activities
• Review, approve, and enforce the creation and maintenance of key mission documentation such as Crew Information Files (CIFs), Configuration Change Requests (CCRs), and mission-specific procedures
• Serve as the approval authority for security items such as secure account creation, MOC access, and secure system changes, ensuring that all operations adhere to required security protocols
• Coordinate with security team and IT personnel to implement, monitor, and enforce security procedures for all on-orbit operations

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead and manage a team in a fast-paced, 24/7 operational environment
• Extensive experience in on-orbit mission operations
• Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems, orbit dynamics, and mission control systems
• Ability to effectively communicate complex technical information to both internal and external stakeholders, including customers and senior leadership
• Experience with functional management, including hiring, performance reviews, mentoring, and career development
• Proven ability to establish, enforce, and uphold operational policies
• Experience managing operational readiness and ensuring all team members are trained and prepared for on-orbit operations
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace, or a related field
• 5+ years of relevant experience in satellite operations or mission control roles
• Current Security Clearance SECRET

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of space weather, spacecraft automation, coding, satellite constellations, and orbital mechanics.
• Familiarity with program management concepts, including task prioritization, schedule management, and risk mitigation.
• TS/SCI Security Clearance

Benefits

• In addition to compensation, York Space Systems is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance along with PTO and a 401K.

York Space Systems provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, military or protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Must have permanent authorization to work in the United States. This policy applies to all terms and conditions or employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. YORK SPACE SYSTEMS IS AN EEO EMPLOYER