Senior Systems Engineer, Functional On-Orbit Test Coordinator/Conductor

Company Overview

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.

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, Functional On-Orbit Test Coordinator/Conductor opening with Iridium on our SDA (Space Development Agency) Project. As a Senior Systems Engineer, you'll 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 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).

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)

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 the Satellite Operations and/or Ground Segment Development industry areas
• Experience with satellite on-orbit testing
• 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

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)
• Military experience
• 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

We'll also need you to:

• Be able to travel up to 10% of the time
• Be a
• 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.

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