Director Systems Engineering

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 passionate about space and deploying disruptive space technology, you'll be excited about the Director, System Engineering position for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a leader of the System Engineering team, you will be be responsible for implementing continuous improvements cross-functionally, by setting objectives and effectively managing multiple priorities, as it relates to the design, development, integration, and delivery of ground system capabilities supporting the program. As the Director of System Engineering for our satellite ground segment program, you will be the key technical leader accountable for the successful execution of our strategic vision. You will lead a large team of engineers, guiding all aspects of the systems engineering lifecycle from concept to delivery. This role requires a dynamic leader who can drive technical excellence, cultivate strategic partnerships with senior stakeholders, and ensure the successful and efficient operation of our ground segment to support critical mission objectives.

This position requires an active/current Top-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 a multidisciplinary team of 35+ systems engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and technical excellence to deliver a high-quality satellite ground segment
• Architect and execute the strategic vision for the systems engineering team, ensuring alignment with program objectives and consistently delivering superior results across all initiatives
• Champion the integration of robust systems engineering best practices and processes across the entire program, significantly enhancing efficiency, compliance, and overall mission assurance
• Direct comprehensive system analyses—including functional decomposition, performance modeling, interface definition, and trade studies—to drive critical, data-informed decision-making and optimize program outcomes
• Orchestrate and provide technical leadership for key program reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, ORR), ensuring successful progression through critical milestones and alignment with overarching strategic goals
• Oversee the development and delivery of complex technical projects, effectively managing shifting priorities and risks to consistently achieve and exceed organizational objectives
• Cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with senior leadership and executive stakeholders, translating technical requirements into comprehensive project plans and driving organizational success
• Initiate and lead continuous process improvement initiatives across the systems engineering lifecycle, establishing frameworks for operational consistency and significant enhancements in efficiency
• Direct the optimization of operational tools and processes, leveraging automation to improve satellite and ground operations and reduce manual overhead
• Guide critical, real-time investigations into complex operational anomalies, developing and implementing solutions to mitigate risks and ensure uninterrupted satellite and ground segment operations
• Ensure robust configuration management of all ground operations procedures and templates, establishing a framework for operational consistency, compliance, and reliability

What You'll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related field
• 15+ years of relevant experience in Systems Engineering, Satellite Operations, or Ground Systems Software Development
• Experience with large scale complex development for US Government national security programs
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present information, drive discussion, and respond to difficult scenarios with limited preparation across all employee groups
• Capable of being a strong motivator and source of direction for your team and exemplifying commitment to your team's goals
• Have a people-oriented mentality and actively promote cross-functional team building
• Able to confidently drive discussions, raise support for key ideas, and tailor your communication style to a wide range of audiences
• Possess the creativity, resourcefulness, and decisiveness needed to manage risks and respond to critical situations
• Have a strong sense of urgency in driving projects to completion and be motivated to achieve outcomes and results
• Excellent prioritization skills and the ability to effectively coordinate the activities of multiple groups

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

• Masters degree in aerospace engineering or related field
• Knowledge of missile defense systems and programs
• TS/SCI clearance

We'll also need you to:

• Be able to work in the office at least 3 or more days a week to foster collaboration with the team and stakeholders
• Be able to travel up to 25%
• Be a U.S. Citizen

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.