Also called: Command Controller
Runs the ground software that sends commands and receives data during satellite passes.
You run a checklist to set up the link before each pass, monitor data flow, and log anything unusual. Often an entry job at satellite companies or military space.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Associate's degree (2-year), about 1 year after high school. Associate degree or military training; some hire with HS plus technical aptitude.
Ways in: Military, 2-year college, On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Aerospace Technology, Information Technology.
Growing much faster than average (about 8% over 10 years).
High risk for 10 years. Satellite passes are increasingly fully automated, so few operator seats remain for newcomers.
Classes: Computer science, Algebra, Physics, Geography.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-3021.
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