Senior Operations Engineer

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Operations Engineer to join the Auckland Space Institute – Te Pūnaha Ātea, within the Faculty of Engineering and Design. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to contribute to both pre-launch and in-orbit spacecraft operations for educational, national, and international partners.

In this role, you will:

• Develop mission concepts of operations (ConOps), interface specifications, and operational procedures.
• Manage spacecraft in-orbit operations, including mission planning, manoeuvre execution, and anomaly resolution.
• Lead regular spacecraft health assessments and provide technical reports.
• Coordinate with spacecraft manufacturers, payload developers, and ground system service providers.
• Participate in a 24/7 on-call operations roster and train students, engineers, and interns in spacecraft operations.
• Represent the Space Institute at national and international conferences and outreach events.

This is a full-time, 37.5 hours per week, 22-month fixed-term position. The salary range for this role is $112,100 - $137,200 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.

For more information, please review the Position Description.  

Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team

The Auckland Space Institute – Te Pūnaha Ātea is a multidisciplinary centre for space science, engineering, and applications. We undertake research, deliver education programmes, and lead mission development from concept to orbit. The Spacecraft Operations Team plays a key role in enabling operational capability for New Zealand’s space sector, working closely with academia, industry, and government agencies.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You will be a system-minded engineer who thrives in dynamic and complex operational environments. You will bring:

• A degree or equivalent experience in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Software Engineering.
• 5+ years’ experience in spacecraft operations or systems engineering, including flight operations.
• Strong technical writing skills and familiarity with spacecraft systems, orbital dynamics, and communications.
• Excellent communication and coordination skills across international, multidisciplinary teams.
• A willingness to work in a 24/7 operations roster and travel for outreach and industry engagement.

Desirable:

• Software development experience (e.g. Python, Java).
• Experience developing spacecraft hardware or flight software.
• Presentation or teaching experience at professional or academic events.
• Must hold citizenship from New Zealand, Australia, USA, EU, or a NATO member country (due to export controls).

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is committed to providing a fulfilling and inclusive work environment. We offer:

• Flexible work practices and a collaborative team culture.
• Five weeks of annual leave and up to 6.75% employer superannuation contribution.
• Access to professional development and training opportunities.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by 15th June 2025 to be considered. Please include a cover letter and CV outlining your suitability for this position.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Chris Jackson via chris.jackson@auckland.ac.nz. Please note that applications will not be accepted via email.

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz