Spacecraft Operations Specialist Intern, Viasat Government

About usOne team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll doThis intern role will focus on the commanding, telemetry, and overall health of the satellite platform and its communication links commanded by the autonomous planning system - MMO. **We are looking for someone within commutable distance from the North Logan, UT office to work part time onsite from January - May/June 2026, and then transition to full time/onsite during our summer internship program** The day-to-dayAssist in defining the scheduling constraints related to spacecraft bus operations, including power, thermal, and attitude control system limitations.Develop and test command sequencing logic that the autonomous system will use to operate the satellite, ensuring accurate timing for slews, data downlinks, and power modes.Model and integrate the constraints associated with both GEO relay and Direct-to-Earth (DTE) communication links into the existing optimization framework. This includes defining visibility windows and data rate constraints.Participate in hardware/software-in-the-loop (HIL/SIL) testing of the mission planning system to validate operational commands and telemetry processing.Document operational procedures for future mission operatorsInternship Program Details: You will work onsite at a Viasat office location for the duration of your internship. Viasat embraces a flexible work environment and onsite/hybrid work is determined by individual roles and teams. Housing and relocation assistance are available to interns pending eligibility. To ensure equity across our intern population, intern compensation is pre-determined based on a variety of factors including: role, location, and final graduation date. Intern compensation is non-negotiable.  What you'll needRequirements: Education: Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related fieldTo be eligible for this position your final graduation date must fall between December 2026 and August 2027 Internship Dates: You must be available part time from January through May/June and then full time for the full duration of the summer internship program. Note limited exceptions may be granted. Viasat offers two options for the full time internship based on semester and quarter academic calendars:   Cohort 1: May 18, 2026 – August 14, 2026Cohort 2: June 22, 2026 – September 18, 2026 Citizenship: This position requires U.S. citizenship Additional:Basic understanding of satellite subsystems (Power, ADCS, Comms).Familiarity with programming/scripting languages (e.g., Python or MATLAB).Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail. What will help you on the jobFamiliarity with spacecraft operations, limitations, and regulations governing the operation of space vehicles in low earth orbit Salary range$20.91 - $56.97 / hourly. For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $25.96 - $67.07/ hourly At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat’s comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at careers.viasat.com/LifeAtViasat/Benefits. EEO StatementViasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.