Head of Mission Operations & Ground Segment

About the role

ClearSpace, a space company founded in 2018 focused on in-orbit servicing and debris removal, is looking for a Head of Mission Operations & Ground Segment. Reporting to the CTO, you will own the end-to-end operational and ground segment strategy, from early mission definition through launch, commissioning, routine operations and end-of-life disposal. You will build and lead a team, define the roadmap and act as the main interface with Engineering, AIV/AIT, Programme Management, Quality, Security, customers and external providers.

Key responsibilities

• Shape mission architectures, operational concepts, autonomy strategies and spacecraft design from the earliest phases
• Define and evolve the Operations & Ground Segment roadmap, vision and organisation
• Build, recruit and manage the Mission Operations and Ground Segment teams, including performance reviews
• Own the operational lifecycle: mission analysis, CONOPS, procedures, flight rules, rehearsals, launch, commissioning, routine operations and disposal
• Own the Ground Segment architecture: mission control, flight dynamics, ground stations, communications, data processing, simulators and security
• Set operational readiness criteria, lead reviews and simulations, and ensure systems are qualified before critical phases
• Ensure safe execution of rendezvous and proximity operations through command authority, flight rules and contingency procedures
• Interface with Engineering, customers and agencies, assess operational feasibility and costs, and contribute to tenders
• Manage the make-or-buy strategy, supplier performance, capacity planning and budgets, and drive continuous improvement

Required profile

• Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science or a related field; advanced degree or CEng status advantageous
• 10+ years in spacecraft mission operations and/or ground segment engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role
• Proven track record taking a mission from early definition through operational readiness, launch, commissioning and routine in-orbit operations
• Experience defining CONOPS, procedures, flight rules, simulations and readiness evidence for complex, safety-critical missions
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and external suppliers across several programmes

Required skills

• Ground segment architectures, mission control systems, flight dynamics, ground station networks, TT&C, secure communications, data handling and simulators
• ECSS standards, configuration and change control, cybersecurity principles and quality management systems
• Nice to have: active debris removal, RPO, space domain awareness, lights-out control centres, cloud-based ground systems, DevSecOps, digital twins, agile programme management and small satellites