GEARX-1: Chief of Operations search

Written By Cameron Greatorex
 

Co-Founder Sought: Chief of Space Operations

Company Overview: Gearx Aerospace, an innovative space exploration startup incubated by iterator.de, is dedicated to addressing the critical challenge of space debris and circularity in low-earth orbit. Our debut mission, GEARX-1, aims to characterize a series of 1m³ space debris targets while in close proximity to them, utilizing advanced optical payloads for debris characterization and LEO environment modeling. This mission will provide invaluable data to further our understanding of space debris interactions and inform future research and training efforts for debris removal. Our goal is to launch between Q3 2025-Q2 2026 with our second mission GEARX-2 development (including a mechanical payload), hot on the heels of GEARX-1 launch.

Position Overview: As the Space Operations Chief, you will lead our operations team in orchestrating the successful execution of GEARX-1 and subsequent missions. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of mission planning, coordination, and execution, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and success of each mission. This is a unique opportunity to join a pioneering team at the forefront of sustainable space and contribute to shaping the future of space debris mitigation.

Mission Objectives:

  • Characterize 1m³ space debris targets in close proximity to GEARX-1 using advanced optical payloads.

  • Gather data on the interaction between GEARX-1 and the space environment, including continuous observation of the degradation of the space sail during the journey home.

  • Use both datasets to further our understanding of space debris and its interaction with the space environment, and leverage this understanding to meaningfully act in the removal of space debris objects up to 1m³ in size.

Development Elements:

  • GEARX-1 satellite platform

  • GEARX-1 propulsion package

  • GEARX-1 optical payload for advanced debris characterization

  • GEARX-1 optical payload for LEO environment modeling and resource commercialization

  • GEARX-2 advanced communication and operations platform

  • GEARX-2 mechanical payload for debris manipulation and payload delivery/recovery

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage a team of mission operations specialists, ensuring alignment with mission objectives and development timelines.

  • Develop and implement mission plans, procedures, and timelines in collaboration with cross-functional teams.

  • Coordinate with engineering, flight dynamics, and mission planning teams to ensure seamless integration of mission objectives and requirements.

  • Monitor mission progress in real-time, identify and mitigate risks, and make real-time decisions to ensure mission success.

  • Establish and maintain relationships with external partners, including commercial partners and government agencies.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in space mission operations, with a proven track record of managing complex missions from planning through execution.

  • Strong leadership and management skills, with experience leading multidisciplinary teams in dynamic environments.

  • Expertise in mission planning, spacecraft operations, and real-time mission support.

  • Premium communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

  • Passion for space exploration and a commitment to advancing the frontiers of human knowledge and achievement.

  • Residence status and legal ability to work in Germany required.

Location: This position is based at our headquarters in Berlin, Germany, with occasional travel to other domestic and international locations as needed.

Benefits:

  • If you share our vision, this is a real chance to build your dream from the ground up

  • Competitive salary and founder equity package

  • Statutory German health and income insurance

  • Statutory German pension plan

  • Flexible work schedule and generous paid time off

  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge space missions with a world-class team of experts

How to Apply: If you are a dynamic and experienced leader with a passion for space exploration and a track record of success in mission operations, we want to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and why you are interested in joining our founding project team.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Join us on our mission to explore the cosmos and tackle the challenges of space debris head-on!

Contact: To apply directly, please use the link provided. We also invite you to join our community Discord and engage with us on X and LinkedIn.


Thank you for your support. Ad Astra!

 
Cameron Greatorex

Your ideas. In your hands.

https://iterator.de
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