Shift Operations Specialist/ Sensor Operator Lead

Overview

Employment in this role is conditional upon successful execution of the contract by the client.

The Work

The Shift Operations Specialist/ Sensor Operator Lead will manage the daily operations and personnel of a highly specialized team performing tasks critical to mission success at the client’s site on Diego Garcia. This role requires expert-level command of all sensor and operator stations, compliance with operational protocols, and effective crew leadership during high-stakes mission execution. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with mission planning, maintenance, and system administration teams to maintain operational readiness and ensure timely anomaly response.

This position aligns with Cayuse’s core values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by fostering technical solutions that meet customer needs, promoting teamwork, and prioritizing quality in deliverables.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Diego Garcia operating crew and oversee execution of mission tasking.
• Maintain and update shift logs and operational status reports to ensure clear communication of current and future mission activities.
• Enforce procedural compliance, safety protocols, and crew discipline to meet operational standards.
• Maintain a working knowledge of all operator stations to provide on-the-spot oversight, guidance, and training.
• Respond promptly to anomalies to minimize mission impact and ensure quick resolutions.
• Coordinate with mission planning, maintenance, and system administration to ensure seamless operational execution.
• Act as primary trainer and mentor for other crew members, ensuring cross-functional proficiency across all positions.
• Enforce established operating procedures and security requirements while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Ensure proper scheduling of same-LCAT Sensor Operator backups from the operator pool for mission continuity.
• Serve exclusively in the dedicated crew-lead role, with no planned cover-down duties as a lower-classification Sensor Operator or Mission Planner.
• Make calm and informed decisions during high-pressure, mission-critical situations.
• Deliver timely reporting of any operational anomalies or mission impacts to stakeholders.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications - Here’s What You Need

The qualifications and skills listed below are intended to provide a general overview of the requirements for this position. However, due to the anticipated nature of the contract and the absence of a finalized task order from the client, this list should not be considered all-encompassing. Additional qualifications, certifications, skills, or experience specific to the client’s requirements may be identified and requested upon award of the task order. Candidates should demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to adapt to evolving responsibilities as outlined by the client.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Astronomy, Electronics, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent military or mission-operations experience will be considered in lieu of formal degree.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in sensor, satellite, radar, optical telescope, command and control (C2), or space operations.
• At least 2 years of experience in a leadership or instructor role, with demonstrated ability to manage high-performing teams under dynamic conditions.
• Top Secret/ SCI Clearance is required.
• A valid passport is required, along with completed overseas medical and dental clearance.
• Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.

Minimum Skills:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.
• Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
• Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Demonstrated expertise in staff management, training, customer relations, and dynamic problem-solving in high-stress scenarios.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Crew-lead or instructor qualification

Our Commitment to you / overview of benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance; Wellness Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability options
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided)
• Voluntary Life and AD&D options
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with matching after one year
• Paid Time Off

Reports to: Program Manager

Working Conditions

• Assignment is located on a remote overseas island with a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures, significant humidity, and potential for inclement weather such as storms and heavy rainfall.
• Limited access to amenities, services, and healthcare may result in basic living accommodations with minimal conveniences.
• Extended logistical lead times for supplies and resources due to the remote nature of the location require advanced planning and adaptability to maintain operational effectiveness.
• Compliance with host-nation protocols, cultural expectations, and installation-specific rules is mandatory, including potential restrictions on personal activities, movement, and communication.
• Position may involve unaccompanied duty assignments, where family members or dependents are not permitted to accompany the employee to the location.
• 24/7 operational readiness, with an expectation of occasional after-hours support for incidents, exercises, deadlines, and travel obligations.
• Must safely operate in proximity to sensitive and classified optical, mechanical, and electrical systems.
• Physically and mentally capable of extended work periods, including responding to incidents, performing tests, and adhering to operational readiness requirements.
• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed to meet the demands of this position.
• Must be able to establish a productive and professional workspace.
• May be asked to work a flexible schedule which may include holidays.
• May be asked to travel for business or professional development purposes.
• May be asked to work hours outside of normal business hours.

Other Duties:Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Cayuse is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in accordance with any applicable federal, state, or local law.