Description Xona is building the next generation of satellite navigation - a high-performance, resilient alternative to GPS powered by a commercial constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. We are on a mission to unlock a new era of autonomy, advanced mobility, and infrastructure resilience by delivering precise, secure, and robust positioning services to the world. We're not here to incrementally improve GNSS. We're here to redefine it from the ground up. We are seeking a highly motivated Orbit and Operations Engineer to join our growing team. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to work across the spacecraft mission lifecycle - from orbit determination and maneuver planning to real-time payload operations and health monitoring. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in orbital mechanics, astrodynamics, and operational satellite systems, with a passion for applying their skills to ensure mission success in both spacecraft flight and payload performance. What You'll Do: * Perform constellation design, orbit determination, trajectory analysis, and maneuver planning for satellites in LEO. * Monitor and maintain payload and satellite telemetry, ensuring healthy payload operations. * Plan and execute payload operations based on global customer needs and constellation capabilities. * Support real-time and scheduled satellite payload operations, including commanding, telemetry analysis, and anomaly resolution. * Develop and maintain procedures for payload tasking, data collection, and downlink scheduling. * Collaborate with mission planners, ground system engineers, and payload specialists to optimize operations and maximize mission value. * Conduct mission simulations and rehearsals to validate flight and payload operational procedures. * Provide technical input to spacecraft and payload anomaly investigations and recovery efforts. * Support the automation of operations through tool development and scripting. * Participate in 24/7 on-call rotations for critical mission support as needed. You Might Be a Fit If: * Passion for astrodynamics, optimizations, and mission planning - approaching a complex problem in a holistic and comprehensive way. * Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in a high-stakes operational environment. * Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams. * Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal. * Problem-solving mindset, with the ability to rapidly assess situations and make sound decisions under pressure. * Enthusiasm for space missions and a commitment to mission success. * Willingness to continuously learn and adapt in a dynamic operational setting. Requirements * Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Astrophysics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. * 2+ years of experience in satellite flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, or related space operations. * Proficiency with orbit propagation tools (e.g., STK, FreeFlyer, GMAT, Orekit, or custom flight dynamics software). * Familiarity with satellite telemetry and commanding processes. * Experience using scripting or programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++) for tool development or analysis. * Full-time, onsite in Burlingame, California (this role is not remote or hybrid) * To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) Desired Qualifications: * Master's degree in a relevant technical field. * Experience with payload operations for Earth observation, communication, or scientific satellites. * Familiarity with ground control systems and satellite tasking/scheduling software. * Experience supporting maneuver execution and post-maneuver verification. * Knowledge of Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and conjunction assessment processes. * Experience working in 24/7 mission operations environments, including shift or on-call support. * Prior experience in small satellite or agile space mission environments.