Operations Link Controller - Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex

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Join the Operations team at CDSCC in Canberra - an essential part of NASA’s Deep Space Network. Here, you'll begin your journey alongside experienced Link Controllers and team members, learning the ropes of deep space communication. Through hands-on training and mentorship, you’ll work towards internal certification in DSN Operations and contribute directly to NASA’s space exploration missions- tracking spacecraft, supporting science, and helping unlock the secrets of our solar system and beyond.

As a trainee Link Controller, you will:

• Work towards completing the highest level of internal DSN Link Controller training.
• Learn on the job by supporting day-to-day operations and collaborating with experienced team members.
• Develop the skills needed to take on increasing responsibility as a certified controller.
• Contribute to a positive and respectful team culture, aligned with CSIRO and CDSCC values and safety standards.
• Support operational tasks and grow your technical understanding of DSN systems.

Once certified, you will:

• Configure and control equipment to support the Deep Space Network tracking schedule.
• Collaborate with mission teams to meet tracking objectives.
• Perform logging, data trending, and operational safety monitoring.
• Support testing, troubleshooting, and system diagnostics with engineering staff.
• Take part in Technical Site Monitoring (TSM) shifts, including periodic 12-hour night shifts, to oversee site operations and assist security staff—initially alongside an experienced controller until you’re ready to work independently.

Location: Tidbinbilla, ACT – Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC)

Salary: AU$74,800 – 105,158 per annum, plus 32.4% shift penalty, plus 15.4% superannuation, Tracking station allowance $133.81/week (Also eligible for fleet transport to & from site, within a defined Canberra region)

Tenure: Indefinite

Reference: 100548

Essential
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed.

• Hold (or be working towards) one or more of the following:
  • Year 12 Certificate
  • Certificate III or higher in Electronic Engineering (or equivalent)
  • Certificate IV or higher in Information Technology (or related discipline)
  • DSN Operations Controller Certification (NASA training provided as part of the role)
• Current driver’s licence
• Willingness and ability to undertake shift work, including weekends, public holidays, and regular night shifts
• Capacity to quickly learn and apply technical and computer-based systems knowledge
• Strong problem-solving, logical thinking, and time management skills
• Good verbal and written communication abilities
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Well-developed interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively and diagnose technical issues

Desirable

• First Aid Certificate
• Basic knowledge of Unix operating system commands and file handling
• Interest or skills in software development. Some team members support operations automation through scripting and software development, which may lead to additional pay increments

For full details about this role please review the Position Description .

Applications for this position are open to Australian Citizens and Australian Permanent Residents only. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

At CSIRO Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

27th July 2025, 11:00pm AEST