Equipment Operations Manager
Portal Space Systems
Equipment Operations Manager
Portal Space Systems
Develops rapid, solar-thermal propelled satellite buses
Portal Space Systems is on a mission to expand humanity’s freedom of movement in space. We’re building the spacecraft that makes that mission possible. From our Bothell, WA headquarters, we design vehicles with the maneuverability, resilience, and adaptability needed for the next era of orbital operations. Every system we build is in service of a simple idea: space should be more accessible, responsive, and capable. Joining Portal means stepping into a team that believes in bold engineering, fast iteration, and the power of small groups to change what’s possible. If you want your work to directly shape the future of in-space mobility, join us.
Position Summary
We're looking for an Equipment Operations Manager to lead the selection, procurement, installation, and commissioning of industrial equipment in a high-tech satellite manufacturing environment. In this role you will work directly with contractors and internal teams to stand up new capability, ensure equipment is delivered on schedule, and drive reliability once it's in production. You will own equipment operations end-to-end — from evaluating vendor proposals through installation oversight to long-term maintenance strategy.
Equipment Selection & Procurement
Installation & Commissioning
Operations & Maintenance
Project & Stakeholder Management
Work Requirements
Pay Range: $135K - $190K
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
At Portal, your base salary is just one part of your total rewards package. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company equity at an exciting time of company growth as well as potential bonuses. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage (premiums paid by Portal 100%), access to a 401(k)-retirement plan, paid parental leave, you may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 12 or more paid holidays per year as well as sick time.
This position may involve access to technical data and defense-related materials controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Eligibility to access ITAR-controlled items requires that candidates be U.S. persons, which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other protected individuals as defined by U.S. law. Employment is contingent upon verification of ITAR eligibility and, where applicable, obtaining any required export authorization or license.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Develops rapid, solar-thermal propelled satellite buses
Portal Space Systems designs and builds spacecraft for in-space mobility, focusing on a solar thermal propulsion-driven satellite bus called the Supernova. The bus uses solar energy to heat a propellant, delivering higher thrust and efficiency to perform large orbital changes, such as transferring from LEO to GEO or to cislunar space. The team includes veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Kuiper, helping mature the technology and manufacturing process. The company has secured over $3 million in Department of Defense funding, signaling a government and defense market focus, and plans to begin production of the Supernova by the end of 2026 from its Bothell, Washington base. Its goal is to move satellites more quickly and flexibly through space, enabling expanded space logistics and orbital transfer capabilities while winning government contracts.
Explore more opportunities at Portal Space Systems