Satellite Operations SME

PPC seeks a Space Operations Subject Matter Expert (SME) with a strong satellite operations background to support a portfolio of projects. The project focus areas include using firsthand satellite command and control experience; supporting development teams with autonomous system capabilities; payload, sensor, data utilization development; and infusion of artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) into modern defense architectures. The candidate may also be requested to support tactics development and onboarding of novel technologies, fulfill additional subject matter expert (SME) roles, support testing, contribute to User Experience / User Interface (UX/UI) design improvements, and lastly, potentially participate in remote operations. This position is initially part-time with the potential to transition to full-time work as contract growth allows.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate traits that align with PatchPlus’ guiding principles – Purpose, Proficiency, and Character. PatchPlus’ purpose is to continue to make a difference to our nation’s security while providing persistent, meaningful employment to its owner-employees. Proficiency defines the PatchPlus ethos where we seek to hire and develop members who possess a high degree of competence, skill and expertise in their field of work. Character is the moral compass in each member that guides us to do the right things as well as to do things right.

Responsibilities/Duties:

• Provide SME input across satellite operations projects including mission planning, satellite command and control, ground control, contact scheduling, and anomaly prevention and resolution.
• Support testing activities for satellite operations products, tools, and capabilities.
• Provide UX/UI input and feedback to development teams to ensure operator-relevant design.
• Contribute insights across project areas including satellite autonomy, payload/sensor development, proliferated constellations, weapons and tactics, and AI/ML infusion.
• Apply counterspace threat knowledge to inform technical and operational recommendations.
• Design scenarios to stress test relevant developmental use cases.

Requirements/Experience:

• US Citizenship
• Active TS/SCI
• Bachelor’s degree (Associates degrees / CCAFs acceptable with additional experience)
• Ten (10) or more years of space operations
• Satellite Command and Control
• Anomaly Resolution
• Satellite Bus and Payload Mission Planning
• Satellite Ground Control / Contact Scheduling
• Counterspace Threats

Additional Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• Space Domain Awareness / Space Surveillance (space- or ground-based)
• Space-based Missile Warning / Missile Tracking / Missile Defense
• Operational/Tactical Command and Control (e.g., CSpOC, NSDC, 18 SDS, 19 SDS)
• Instructor / Military Training
• Exercise and Scenario Development
• AI/ML within space operations
• National Reconnaissance Office
• Business Development, Commercialization / Marketing

Additional Comments:

• Start date: ASAP
• May require SCIF access / work in classified environments
• Potential for some shift work
• Part-time funding currently available; transition to Full-Time is contingent on future contract growth