7 Space Force Jobs

The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the US military, established in 2020 to protect American interests in space and cyberspace. As the USSF continues to grow and expand its capabilities, it’s creating new and exciting career opportunities for service members. Here are 7 space force jobs that are shaping the future of space operations:

1. Space Operations Officer (13S): These officers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing space operations, including launch and deployment of satellites, space-based intelligence, and command and control of space systems. They must have a strong understanding of astrodynamics, space systems engineering, and space mission operations. To become a Space Operations Officer, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in a field like aerospace engineering, physics, or mathematics, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Space Operations Officer Course.

For example, Space Operations Officers played a crucial role in the launch of the USSF’s first satellite, the AEHF-6, which provides secure communications for the US military. They worked closely with launch teams to ensure the satellite was properly configured and deployed, and then took control of the satellite to begin its mission.

1. Cyber Operations Officer (17S): As the USSF’s cyber warriors, these officers are responsible for defending space systems from cyber threats and conducting cyber operations to disrupt adversary space capabilities. They must have a strong background in computer science, cybersecurity, and networking. Cyber Operations Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science or cybersecurity, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Cyber Operations Officer Course.

For instance, Cyber Operations Officers are working to protect the USSF’s satellite systems from cyber threats, using advanced techniques like penetration testing and vulnerability assessment to identify and mitigate potential risks. They are also developing new cyber capabilities to disrupt adversary space systems, using tools like malware and other cyber weapons.

1. Intelligence Officer (1N): Intelligence Officers in the USSF are responsible for analyzing and interpreting space-related intelligence, including satellite imagery, signals intelligence, and human intelligence. They must have a strong understanding of space systems, geopolitics, and analytical techniques. Intelligence Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like international relations, political science, or geography, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Intelligence Officer Course.

For example, Intelligence Officers are using satellite imagery to track the development of new space capabilities by adversary nations, such as the construction of new launch facilities or the deployment of new satellite systems. They are also analyzing signals intelligence to identify potential cyber threats to US space systems.

1. Space Systems Engineer (61S): These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing space systems, including satellites, launch vehicles, and ground control systems. They must have a strong background in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering. Space Systems Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like aerospace engineering or mechanical engineering, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Space Systems Engineering Course.

For instance, Space Systems Engineers are working on the development of new satellite systems, such as the USSF’s next-generation GPS system, which will provide more accurate and secure navigation capabilities for the US military. They are also developing new launch vehicles, such as the USSF’s new heavy-lift rocket, which will be used to launch large satellites and other payloads into space.

1. Acquisitions Manager (62S): Acquisitions Managers in the USSF are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing the acquisition of space systems, including satellites, launch vehicles, and ground control systems. They must have a strong understanding of procurement laws, regulations, and procedures, as well as a background in business administration or a related field. Acquisitions Managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like business administration or procurement, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Acquisitions Manager Course.

For example, Acquisitions Managers are working to procure new satellite systems for the USSF, using techniques like competitive bidding and sole-source contracting to ensure the best value for the government. They are also developing new acquisition strategies, such as public-private partnerships, to leverage private sector innovation and expertise.

1. Space Communications Officer (31S): These officers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing space communications operations, including satellite communications, ground control systems, and network management. They must have a strong understanding of communications systems, network protocols, and cybersecurity principles. Space Communications Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like communications engineering or computer science, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Space Communications Officer Course.

For instance, Space Communications Officers are working to develop new satellite communications systems, such as the USSF’s new satellite-based communications network, which will provide secure and reliable communications for the US military. They are also developing new ground control systems, such as the USSF’s new satellite operations center, which will be used to control and manage US space systems.

1. Space Payloads Officer (68S): Space Payloads Officers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing space payloads, including satellites, sensors, and other space-based systems. They must have a strong background in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering, as well as a understanding of payload operations and management. Space Payloads Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like aerospace engineering or mechanical engineering, and must complete a series of training courses, including the Space Payloads Officer Course.

For example, Space Payloads Officers are working on the development of new satellite payloads, such as the USSF’s new hyperspectral imaging sensor, which will be used to detect and track targets on the ground. They are also developing new payload management systems, such as the USSF’s new payload operations center, which will be used to control and manage US space payloads.

These 7 space force jobs are just a few examples of the many exciting career opportunities available in the USSF. As the USSF continues to grow and expand its capabilities, it will require a diverse range of skilled and dedicated service members to protect American interests in space and cyberspace.

In conclusion, the USSF offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities for service members who are passionate about space and cyberspace operations. From Space Operations Officers to Space Payloads Officers, these 7 space force jobs are just a few examples of the many rewarding careers available in the USSF. Whether you’re interested in designing and developing new space systems, conducting cyber operations, or analyzing space-related intelligence, the USSF has a job that’s right for you.

As the USSF continues to grow and expand its capabilities, it will require a diverse range of skilled and dedicated service members to protect American interests in space and cyberspace. If you’re interested in joining the USSF, we encourage you to explore the many career opportunities available and to contact a recruiter or visit a local recruiting office for more information.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the 7 space force jobs that are shaping the future of space operations. Remember to always stay curious, keep learning, and never stop exploring the many wonders of the universe.