Also called: Telescope Network Operator
Operates networks of telescopes that photograph satellites and debris to track their orbits.
You check that dozens of robotic telescopes around the world are running, fix ones that fail, and review images for streaks of passing satellites.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Associate or bachelor's; amateur astronomy experience helps.
Ways in: 2-year college, 4-year college, Self-taught. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Astronomy, Electronics Technology.
Growing faster than average. Small, fast-growing field as low Earth orbit gets crowded; not tracked separately by BLS.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Robotic telescope networks now track satellites on their own, so fewer operators; repairs remain.
Classes: Physics, Astronomy, Computer science, Electronics CTE.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-4099.
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