Principal Systems Engineer, On-Orbit Test Coordinator

Iridium is an award-winning and innovative satellite communications company with bragging rights to the only network that offers voice and data connectivity anywhere in the world. For over 20 years, Iridium's unique network and services have supported critical communications needs for individuals, businesses, and the evolving Internet of Things.

At Iridium, we understand the importance of staying connected and the limitations of traditional communications networks. People across the globe, including first responders, humanitarians, global militaries, scientific researchers, and lone workers, as well as ships, aircraft and remote operations all rely on Iridium to stay connected. We take our responsibility for providing these essential communications very seriously and pride ourselves on offering a reliable lifeline when needed. Likewise, Iridium is committed to providing an exciting and innovative workplace, where employees are challenged to think outside the box and collaborate on new, bold ideas and solutions. Our talented teams are passionate about their work and the impact our company makes around the world. Iridium fosters an empowering and inclusive culture that allows employees to genuinely be their best selves. We are looking for others who want to join this truly unique company that celebrates our employees and provides the opportunity to truly make a difference in the world.

Iridium is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join our System Engineering team supporting a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a Principal 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 will also lead the System Engineering team in directing on-orbit test activities in conjunction with numerous satellite vendors, working 12-hour shifts in a 24/7 multi-satellite operations environment. In this role you will be orchestrating, directing, and conducting test activities in conjunction with these vendors, the SDA, and General Dynamics.

This position requires an active/current Secret Security Clearance with the ability to obtain a Top-Secret Secret Security Clearance (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active).

Lead the checkout and commissioning of both multiple on-orbit satellites and the accompanying ground segment, serving as the primary technical point of contact for all related activities
• Develop, author, and execute detailed test plans and procedures for on-orbit activities, including payload activation, spacecraft subsystem checkouts, and system performance validation
• Coordinate, mentor, and lead integrated test teams, including operators, analysts, and subsystem engineers, to ensure seamless execution of on-orbit checkout procedures and anomaly resolution
• Archive test data and artifacts in preparation for the writing and generation of test reports used to validate satellite acceptance in the SDA Operations Centers
• Conduct root cause analysis for any on-orbit anomalies, ground 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 andmaintaincomprehensive documentation related to the on-orbit checkout process, including test reports, anomaly logs, and final system performance reports
• Be responsible forthe disposition and maintenance of test procedures
• Work with satellite vendors to ensuresynergyof on-orbit tests
• Collaborate withSDA and Iridiumprogram leadership to assess risks and provide recommendations for improvementto on-orbit operations
• Identifyand autonomously implement ideas, solutions,processes, procedures, and checklists focused on continuous process improvement, more efficient operations, and reduced service impacts.
• Support the Operations team tofacilitatecrew training forrecurring scenarios,ops affecting upgrades, and the Operational Crew Training and Certification process.

• Bachelor's degree in STEM or related field OR equivalent relevant experience in lieu of degree
• 10+ years of relevant experience in satellite operations, satellite on-orbit testing, ground system engineering, software integration and test, and/or software development
• Skilled at the mechanics and operations of Low Earth Orbit Satellites
• 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 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

• Understanding of the SDA acquisition model, SDA space constellation, and SDA ground segment
• Intelligence Community (IC) or Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition background
• Working knowledge of Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)
• Working Proficiency of the Atlassian tool suite, to include JIRA and Confluence

• Be able to work shifts of four days on, four days off, with 12 hours a day expected per shift
• Be on call during times when the Operations Center is in backup mode
• Be able to travel quarterly to Iridium CONUS facilities
• Be a U.S. citizen

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 three days per week (approximately 60%) 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.

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