MDA Space · 2 weeks ago
Flight Controller – Mission Systems & Operations
Houston, TX
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expMDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry, specializing in robotics and satellite systems. They are seeking a Flight Controller to support user-centric development of robotic space systems and ground infrastructure, making critical decisions during spaceflight missions to ensure safety and mission success.
AerospaceSatellite CommunicationSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Support a flight operations team and make decisions which can have consequences for human lives and multi-billion dollar commercial and international space assets. Help to manage risk in building a mission and resolving issues pre-flight and real-time
Make decisions during spaceflight missions and manage robotics assets, ground resources and associated payload operations to ensure crew and vehicle safety
Support development of human and unmanned spaceflight missions through coordination with programs, technical discipline experts, the CSA/NASA Astronaut Office, safety organizations, international partners, commercial customers, Payloads Operations, and other mission-specific stakeholders
Help define and enforce user centric design principles across all aspects of space & ground robotic system software and hardware through coordination with technical teams, definition of requirements, testing, and support of agile development cycles
Support the development and evaluation of mission objectives according to programmatic guidelines and constraints. Help to develop and execute Flight Plans according to programmatic mission requirements. Support the enforcement of Mission Rules to ensure crew and vehicle safety
Support the development, coordination, and execution of testing for certification of flight readiness of space hardware, software, and ground systems
Support the definition, development, coordination, certification, and approval for flight execution of all needed operational procedures, manuals, and flight rules for operating critical space hardware
Support the determination and implementation of a course of action for contingency situations in the areas of robotic systems and dynamic vehicle interaction, and ground systems to resolve malfunctions and restore the mission to a normal operational state
Support multi-disciplinary program teams across different sites to meet technical, schedule and cost requirements
Support the maintenance of program visibility at the customer level through regular technical, management, and progress m Liaise with customers to maintain effective relationships to instill and enhance the customer's confidence in MDA's quality systems and products
Demonstrate leadership across the organization; promoting common core values
Qualification
Required
Minimum 5 years of space flight operations experience – controlling mission critical systems in a human spaceflight environment
Minimum 5 years direct experience in simulations, or training of space flight, military or other safety/mission-critical hardware and/or software
The applicant should be familiar with the Mobile Servicing System (Canadarm2 and Dextre) and International Space Station operations as well have expertise in some of MSS hardware elements
Candidate should have strong robotics educational background and/or interest in the field
Familiarity with human spaceflight safety protocols and best practices, including risk assessment and hazard identification
Experience in flight operations or mission control, preferably with a focus on human spaceflight. Alternatively, experience in satellite space operations would also be an asset
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to make quick and accurate decisions under pressure
Ability to multi-task effectively and manage competing priorities
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical information to a diverse group of stakeholders
Familiarity with software and tools used in flight operations, such as mission control software and telemetry systems
Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate effectively with flight controllers, engineers, and astronauts
Willingness to work flexible hours and be available for emergency situations as required
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety in all aspects of the job
Familiarity with NASA and Flight Operations culture and processes
Bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in engineering or technical field
Experience with government space agency programs
Great interpersonal skills
Team player demonstrating a high level of integrity
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Conflict management skills in a multi-disciplinary environment
Results-oriented and exhibits excellent critical thinking
Strives to provide customers/clients with personalized and efficient service
Ability to cope with significant workload peaks
Ability to travel as required
Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR
Benefits
Competitive health care including; extended healthcare and flexible drug plans
Dental and vision benefits
Disability income protection
Life insurance
Group retirement savings plans
Employee and family assistance program
Company
MDA Space
MDA Space is a space technology company that develops geointelligence, space operations, and satellite systems.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$183MKey Investors
Canadian Space Agency
2025-12-04Post Ipo Debt· $179.08M
2022-06-02Grant· $0.25M
2021-04-19Post Ipo Equity· $3.67M
Leadership Team
Mike Greenley
Chief Executive Officer
Guillaume Lavoie
Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
2026-02-04
2026-01-23
2026-01-09
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