Flight Director

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Job Summary

The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is seeking a skilled and motivated Flight Director I to provide leadership in mission operations and ground system development for NASA and commercial spacecraft. This senior level position plays a key role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and successful execution of mission activities across LASP's diverse science portfolio, including astrophysics, planetary science, solar physics, Earth atmosphere, and climate missions.

As a Flight Director I, you will lead the architecture, design, and implementation of complex operational systems and processes. You will own large subsystems or cross organizational projects, collaborate with mission leadership and stakeholders, and make critical decisions that directly impact mission success. This is a leadership path distinct from the Flight Controller IV technical specialist track, focusing instead on mission execution, coordination, planning, and operational governance.

You will represent LASP at major project reviews, guide mission-level planning and staffing, support anomaly recovery, develop operational strategies, and help shape the direction of future mission operations capabilities. This role requires a proactive, thoughtful leader who excels in autonomy, systems-level thinking, communication, and cross-functional coordination.

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.

Who We Are

Founded a decade before NASA, the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder is revolutionizing human understanding of the cosmos. LASP is deeply committed to inspiring and educating the next generation of space explorers. From enabling the first exploratory rocket measurements of Earth's upper atmosphere to trailblazing observations of every planet in the solar system, LASP is at the forefront of solar, planetary and space physics research, space-weather monitoring, and the search for evidence of habitable worlds.

LASP advances scientific discovery and inspires the next generation through research, innovation, and education in space sciences. We employ over 700 scientists, engineers, support personnel, and students that work closely to cultivate creative ideas and explore novel solutions to make the impossible possible.

LASP is dedicated to building and maintaining a unique synergism of expertise in space science, engineering, and spacecraft operations. Through research projects, LASP participates actively in the training of the future leaders of space research and helps the University of Colorado to educate students with valued technical and scientific skills. Development and use of innovative technologies and continuing participation in new research initiatives ensures a strong leadership role for LASP into the future.

LASP is proud of our work environment that supports employee creativity and productivity and offers opportunities for a broad range of experiences. Further information about LASP can be found here: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

What Your

Key Responsibilities Will Be

Mission Leadership & Systems Architecture

* Lead the architecture, design, and implementation of complex ground system components supporting pre‑launch and post‑launch operations.

* Develop mission operations concepts, processes, procedures, and operational strategies.

* Drive cross‑organizational initiatives that influence mission performance, capability development, and team efficiency.

Operations Execution & Analysis

* Lead detailed subsystem performance analysis and develop high‑impact recommendations.

* Direct troubleshooting and recovery activities during mission anomalies.

* Contribute highly innovative solutions to complex technical problems.

* Ensure mission safety and ground system performance across mission phases.

Program Management & Coordination

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