Spacecraft Operations Compliance Manager

Umbra builds next-generation space systems that observe the Earth in unprecedented fidelity.

Our mission is to deliver global omniscience.

To stay ahead of climate change, geopolitical risk, and other major crises and issues, we need a global understanding of what is changing, where, and how fast. Umbra provides easy access to the highest quality commercial satellite data available, which is an indispensable tool for the growing number of organizations monitoring the Earth. We empower our customers to create solutions that inform, inspire, and address our planet’s most pressing needs. We’re helping to create a brand-new industry that has never meaningfully existed before.

Step into the exciting world of Umbra's Remote Sensing team as our Spacecraft Operations Compliance Manager! In this crucial position, you will be at the forefront of ensuring we adhere to all regulatory standards while promoting productive collaborations with launch service providers, ground station operators, and relevant regulatory bodies throughout the entire lifecycle of our commercial constellation spacecraft. Your expertise will play a vital role in the success of our space operations, requiring a detail-driven professional who excels at managing complex logistics, works seamlessly with interdisciplinary teams, and skillfully navigates the complex regulatory environment of space-based Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations.

Our aim for this position is to have an individual work in Umbra’s Santa Barbara, CA or Arlington, VA office. Hybrid arrangements may be considered.

Key Responsibilities

Launch Coordination and Planning

• Coordinate launch schedules with launch providers and oversee the procurement and execution of launch manifests.
• Collaborate with the satellite engineering team to ensure all technical requirements and launch protocols are met.
• Manage relationships with ground station providers to ensure readiness for signal acquisition and data transmission following launch.

Regulatory Compliance Management

• Work closely with the Umbra Legal team and regulatory agencies to secure necessary permits, licenses, and authorizations for satellite operation, including ITU frequency allocations, FCC licensing, and NOAA approvals.
• Monitor and interpret changes in international and domestic space regulations, in coordination with the Umbra Legal team, providing guidance to align internal policies and operational practices.
• Develop and implement compliance protocols to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and avoid operational disruptions.

Frequency Coordination

• Coordinate with international and domestic bodies to secure and maintain frequency licenses, avoiding interference with other satellite systems.
• Work with engineering teams to ensure SAR transmissions meet all spectrum requirements and mitigate risks of cross-interference.

Data Transmission and Security Compliance

• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards governing data transmission and encryption, collaborating with the Umbra IT and Legal teams to maintain secure protocols for data handling.
• Oversee the development of data security policies that meet industry and regulatory standards for SAR data protection and privacy.

Stakeholder Collaboration and Reporting

• Maintain effective communication with cross-functional teams, including engineering, legal, and ground operations, to ensure successful coordination of launch and compliance requirements.

• Prepare and present regular reports to the Director of Space Operations, highlighting launch readiness, regulatory status, and compliance updates.

Other Professional Duties As Assigned

Required Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in satellite launch operations, space systems engineering, or regulatory compliance within the aerospace industry.
• Proven experience managing relationships with launch service and/or ground station providers.
• Strong understanding of international and domestic regulatory requirements for satellite operations, particularly ITU, FCC, and NOAA.
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple launches and regulatory processes simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams and with external stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications

• Basic understanding of RF terminology, technology and its applications.
• Familiarity with SAR technology and frequency coordination processes is a plus.

• Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
• Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
• 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
• Stock Options
• Free Parking
• Free lunch daily in office

Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

Employment Eligibility Verification

In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.

ITAR/EAR Requirements

This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable. 

Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role’s function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.

Compensation Range

The Compensation Range for this role is $120,000- $160,000.

Salary : $120,000 - $160,000