At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead satellite missions and ensure high-quality data delivery from space.
- Company: Join Open Cosmos, a mission-driven company revolutionising access to space technology.
- Benefits: Flexible work locations, diverse team, and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in space operations and solve global challenges.
- Qualifications: Strong project management skills and understanding of satellite operations required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Aim high, go beyond! At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…
Working in our Chief Technology Office (CTO) The CTO division is where Open Cosmos technology comes to life. Covering engineering, product development, and technical innovation, the team designs, builds, and operates the satellites, systems, and platforms that make our missions possible. It’s a highly collaborative environment where ideas become real hardware, software, and data solutions that deliver impact from space.
Working in the Mission Operations Team Working across the full mission lifecycle, the Mission Operations team is responsible for safely operating our satellites once they are in orbit. From launch and early operations through routine service and end-of-life, the team monitors spacecraft health, executes critical activities, and responds quickly to anything unexpected. Working closely with flight software, systems and engineering teams, Mission Operations plays a central role in keeping every Open Cosmos mission safe, reliable and delivering value to our customers.
What will you be doing?
- Owning the performance of assigned satellite missions, ensuring reliable and high‑quality data delivery across the full service chain
- Acting as the primary point of contact for satellite owners and promoters, managing relationships and aligning on mission objectives
- Monitoring mission health and performance across space and ground segments, proactively identifying risks and issues
- Coordinating resolution of satellite, ground segment, and data‑related incidents, ensuring timely and effective outcomes
- Providing regular reporting on mission performance, service levels, and delivery against agreed objectives
- Ensuring alignment and coordination across flight operations, ground systems, and data platform teams
- Managing third‑party partners and subcontractors contributing to mission delivery
- Supporting the Growth team in pre‑sales activities, contributing operational insight to satellite operations proposals
- Identifying opportunities to improve mission performance, service reliability, and operational efficiency
What You’ll bring
- Strong customer‑focused mindset, with the ability to align technical delivery to customer objectives
- Ability to understand and translate customer business goals into operational outcomes
- Capability in project and programme management, including planning, execution, and risk management
- Strong issue management and problem‑solving skills, particularly in complex, cross‑system environments
- Ability to coordinate across multiple technical teams and stakeholders with strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
- Understanding of satellite operations, including flight segment, ground segment, and mission workflows
- Knowledge of data processing systems and platforms, particularly in Earth Observation or similar domains
- Understanding of systems engineering principles and end‑to‑end system interactions
- Familiarity with project management methodologies like Agile, waterfall or hybrid approaches
- Awareness of ECSS standards and space industry practices
- Understanding of software systems and infrastructure supporting mission and data delivery
- Knowledge of geospatial data and imagery service chains, including performance and quality considerations
- Accountability, taking ownership of mission performance and delivery outcomes whilst being comfortable operating in ambiguity, navigating complex and evolving mission environments with sound judgement
For this role you can be based in any of our locations. To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location.
Why Open Cosmos?
- Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe
- A mission‑driven company making space accessible to help solve real‑world challenges
- A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team
- Equal opportunity employer
At Open Cosmos, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace built on respect, dignity, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively challenge bias to ensure every candidate and employee feels truly welcome. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Mission Operations Manager employer: Open Cosmos Ltd.
Open Cosmos is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture where innovation thrives at the forefront of space technology. With a commitment to employee growth and inclusivity, team members are empowered to tackle real-world challenges while enjoying the benefits of a diverse and supportive environment. Join us in making space accessible and impactful, as we work together to deliver high-quality satellite missions that drive meaningful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mission Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the space industry, especially those working at Open Cosmos. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you land that Mission Operations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare to discuss your experience with satellite operations and project management in detail. We want to see how you can translate your past successes into future wins for our missions.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for scenario questions! Think about how you'd handle unexpected challenges in mission operations. We love candidates who can think on their feet and come up with creative solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining the Open Cosmos team!
We think you need these skills to ace Mission Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Space:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for space technology shine through! We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at Open Cosmos. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in satellite operations and the challenges we tackle.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who can connect their background to the role of Mission Operations Manager. Highlight your project management skills and any experience with satellite operations!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Use bullet points where possible to make your key achievements stand out. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can communicate effectively across teams!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Open Cosmos!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Cosmos Ltd.
✨Know Your Satellites
Before the interview, brush up on satellite operations and the specific missions Open Cosmos is involved in. Understanding the technical aspects and being able to discuss them will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Customer-Centric Mindset
Prepare examples that highlight your customer-focused approach. Think about how you've aligned technical delivery with customer objectives in past roles. This will demonstrate your ability to manage relationships effectively, which is crucial for this position.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss complex issues you've managed in previous projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on how you identified risks and coordinated solutions across teams.
✨Familiarity with Project Management Methodologies
Brush up on Agile, waterfall, and hybrid project management methodologies. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in your work, especially in relation to satellite operations or similar environments, as this will be key to your success in the role.
