Flight Controller III; Mission Support Specialist

Job Summary

The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is seeking a highly skilled Flight Controller III (Mission Support Specialist) to support NASA and commercial spacecraft operations across a diverse portfolio of scientific missions. LASP operates small satellites, hosted payloads, and large flagship missions spanning Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Solar Physics, Earth Atmosphere, and Climate research.

• Lead flight software acceptance testing team
• Lead detailed subsystem analysis and produce technical recommendations.
• Conduct real‑time commanding and monitoring of spacecraft and instruments.
• Lead troubleshooting and recovery efforts during mission anomalies.
• Perform complex programming tasks in automation, analysis, and scripting.
• Assist with training and certifying student command controllers.
• Provide training and mentorship to newer Flight Controllers.
• Create and maintain mission‑level documentation and approve tactical updates.
• Develop and enforce standard operating procedures for on‑call response.
• Lead strategic mission planning in support of flight operations.
• Perform mission specialist roles (e.g., lead planner, subsystem specialist, dynamics lead).
• Contribute to the development and verification of requirements.
• Design and execute functional tests on mission testbeds.
• Support code walkthroughs, commissioning activities, and systems verification.
• Lead the development of ground systems supporting hosted payload programs.
• Serve as a Phase E Flight Director for small missions or instruments.
• Support broader strategic initiatives that advance LASP’s capabilities.
• Collaborate across teams to enhance operations concepts and methodologies.
• Perform other duties as assigned by mission leadership.

• Some travel may be required for project or mission support.
• Flexible work schedules may be available depending on mission activities.
• Participation in on‑call rotations, including nights, holidays, and weekends, is required.
• Only U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or other protected individuals may apply due to export‑controlled data requirements.

• $ - $ per year
• Relocation assistance may be available.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit.

• BA/BS in engineering, physical sciences, computer science.
• Five years of spacecraft operations or equivalent experience.
• Strong understanding of intermediate coding principles.
• Previous experience in testing and validating flight software.
• Proficiency in Linux.
• Proficiency with Atlassian tools.
• Ability to develop operational or analytical software tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead small development teams.
• Ability to support off‑hours and on‑call operations.

• Experience with mission planning software.
• Experience with orbital mechanics.
• Background in project management or systems engineering principles.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.