Senior Systems Engineer, On-Orbit Test Coordinator

Company Overview

Iridium is an award-winning satellite communications company operating the world's only truly global voice and data network, delivering reliable connectivity anywhere on Earth. For more than 20 years, Iridium has powered mission-critical communications for governments, businesses, aviation, maritime, and the rapidly expanding Internet of Things.

Now part of Iridium, Aireon is the world’s only space-based air traffic surveillance system, providing real-time visibility of aircraft over oceans, the poles, and remote regions. Together, Iridium and Aireon are helping build a safer, more connected, and more efficient future for global aviation.

Join our team and help shape how the world stays connected. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture where employees are empowered to innovate, grow professionally, and make a meaningful impact.

What We’re Looking For:

If you are an experienced systems engineer with a background in space systems architecture and design, and have at least 8 years of experience, you will be excited about the Senior Systems Engineer opening with Iridium on our SDA (Space Development Agency) Project. As a Senior Systems Engineer, you’ll be responsible for interfacing between the Iridium Operations team supporting the SDA and the Iridium System Engineering team in developing artifacts associated with the operations of the mesh network and ground segment. You will provide critical operations and integration support to improve our efficiency and effectiveness by implementing processes, procedures, checklists, and software tools for ground and satellite operations. Working in this role, you’ll interface with the U.S. government in dealing with Iridium generated and delivered System Engineering documents that govern operations at the SDA operation centers. You’ll also be responsible for the design, development and maintenance of functional on-orbit test procedures, working with multiple satellite vendors to ensure synergy of on-orbit tests, assist the SDA in the development of operational test procedures, and act as a liaison between the space contractors, ground contractors and government team during operations. You will work 12-hour shifts with a team onsite in a 24/7, multi-satellite operations environment. You will thrive in this role if you enjoy tackling complex challenges and working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

This position requires an active/current Secret Security Clearance (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active).

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the on-orbit checkout and commissioning of a satellite and its ground segment, serving as the primary technical point of contact for all related activities
• Develop, author, and execute detailed test plans and procedures for a variety of on-orbit activities, including payload activation, spacecraft subsystem checkouts, and system performance validation
• Coordinate and lead integrated test teams, including operators, analysts, and subsystem engineers, to ensure seamless execution of on-orbit checkout procedures and anomaly resolution
• Analyze telemetry data in real-time during checkout events to assess system health and performance, identify anomalies, and provide critical insights to the mission team
• Conduct root cause analysis for any on-orbit anomalies or performance deviations, working with design engineers and subject matter experts to develop and implement effective solutions
• Prepare and present technical briefings to senior leadership and stakeholders, providing updates on mission status, checkout progress, and any identified risks or issues
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation related to the on-orbit checkout process, including test reports, anomaly logs, and final system performance reports
• Generate and develop test procedures, in conjunction with existing plans for on-orbit test procedures
• Be responsible for the disposition and maintenance of test procedures
• Generate and develop System Engineering documentation as it relates to SDA Operations
• Work with satellite vendors to ensure synergy of on-orbit tests
• Be responsible for assigned documentation within SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, or other relevant Iridium databases or tools
• Collaborate with SDA and Iridium program leadership to assess risks and provide recommendations for improvement to on-orbit operations
• Provide technical writing assistance in the development of Basis of Efforts (BOE)
• Interface between the Iridium Operations team supporting the SDA and the Iridium System Engineering team in developing artifacts associated with the operations of the mesh network and ground segment
• Provide integration support to improve our efficiency and effectiveness by implementing processes, procedures, checklists, and software tools for ground and satellite operations

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related field, OR equivalent on-orbit test experience in lieu of a degree
• 8+ years of relevant experience in satellite operations, satellite on-orbit testing, ground system engineering, software integration and test, and/or software development
• Strong knowledge of system engineering methodologies and AGILE processes
• Strong familiarity with tools and software applications that support system engineering best practices
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey products, deliverables, analyses, and/or issues clearly and confidently, and recognize and adapt to different communication techniques
• An ability to build meaningful relationships with others, including senior leadership outside of your own department, and is comfortable providing constructive feedback to your team members and management
• Be able to analyze a situation or problem, generate effective solutions, and see those solutions through to completion
• Must possess the creativity and resourcefulness needed to make reliable decisions and determine methods on new assignments
• Can thrive in a dynamic environment by handling multiple tasks and managing shifting priorities
• Be proactive in sharing knowledge you’ve learned with others
• Skilled at the mechanics and operations of Low Earth Orbit Satellites

Things That Would be Great if You Brought to the Table:

• An active/current Top-Secret Security Clearance or the ability to obtain a Top-Secret Security Clearance (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)
• Intelligence Community (IC) or Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition background
• Experience with orbital mechanics, space vehicle launches and early orbit functions
• Programming languages such as: Java, Java-Script, Python, Shell scripting
• Familiarity with Atlassian Tool Suite such JIRA, R4J and Confluence
• Working knowledge of Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)

We’ll also need you to:

• Be able to travel up to 10% of the time
• Be a US Citizen
• Be able to work shifts of four days on, four days off, with 12 hours a day expected per shift

Work Environment:

This position primarily works in an office setting and is largely sedentary with the majority of the position working with a computer. The role typically requires the use of basic office equipment such as a phone, video, computer, keyboard, mouse, and printer.

We believe in-person connection drives innovation, strengthens mentorship, and builds culture, while flexibility enables employees to do their best work. Under Iridium’s Hybrid Work Policy, employees are expected to work at least four days per week (approximately 80%) in an Iridium office to support collaboration, relationship-building, and professional growth.

Additional Information

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work for this role and is not a comprehensive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Employees may be assigned additional responsibilities as needed.

Base Pay Range: $115,000 - $155,000 USD

Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors and this range represents an estimate of compensation at the time of posting. Base salary is only one part of our compensation package for this role. You may also be eligible for company stock and annual bonus. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid time off and paid holidays; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Iridium is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.