Senior Systems Engineer

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 identifying and autonomously implementing ideas and solutions as it relates to the design and development of core ground system components, working with cross-functional teams to ensure successful mission outcomes. In this role, you will focus primarily on the architecture and integration of Mission Planning, Flight Dynamics, Ground Entry Point Management, and Fleet Operations Monitoring. 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 or the ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active).

Be responsible for providing technical expertise for various components within a satellite ground system, ensuring compatibility, functionality, and performance at the system level

Develop and maintain system-level architecture and design documentation, ensuring alignment with project requirements, industry standards, and best practices

Independently perform requirements analysis, definition, decomposition, and management for Space and Ground Segments

Collaborate with system architects and project managers to define system-level requirements, establish technical baselines, and track performance metrics throughout the integration process

Conduct risk assessments and mitigation planning for system design and development activities, identifying potential risks, developing contingency plans, and implementing risk mitigation strategies

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware, software, and network engineers, to ensure seamless design, integration, and interoperability of system components

Conduct required system analysis (functional & performance), interface definition, and detailed trade studies, analyzing multiple data sources to respond to frequent, complex, and high impact situations

Support the program technical team in major reviews such as: Systems Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Operations Readiness Review (ORR)

Support the coordination and delivery of multiple or complex technical assignments designed with end goals in mind, including managing shifting priorities

Work independently to ensure that projects meet technical performance targets, deliver quality results, and activities are well-designed and meet overall project objectives

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related field, OR equivalent relevant experience in lieu of a degree

8+ years of relevant experience in the Satellite Operations and/or Ground Segment Development industry areas

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

Can easily 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

Experience with designing, developing, and operating Space Vehicle Subsystems and various command and control systems (e.g. OS Comet, InControl, etc.)

Experience with aspects of the Hardware Software Development Life Cycle process

Experience with orbital mechanics, space vehicle launches and early orbit functions

Experience with modeling and simulations of mesh networks

Programming languages such as: Java, Java-Script, Python, Shell scripting

Working knowledge of networking protocols, routers, switches, etc.

Familiarity with Atlassian Tool Suite such JIRA, R4J and Confluence

Familiarity with Joint interface control officer background and Link-16 processes

Be able to travel up to 10%

Be a U.S. Citizen

Be able to work in the office at least 4 days a week to foster collaboration with the team

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: $120,000 - $160,000 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.