Overview

Director Systems Engineering role at Iridium. Join to apply for a senior leadership position focused on the ground segment systems engineering for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. The Director will lead a large team of engineers, guide the system engineering lifecycle from concept to delivery, and drive technical excellence and strategic partnerships to enable successful mission objectives.

What You’ll Do

• Lead a multidisciplinary team of 35+ systems engineers to deliver a high-quality satellite ground segment.
• Architect and execute the strategic vision for the systems engineering team, aligning with program objectives and delivering results across initiatives.
• Champion robust systems engineering practices to enhance efficiency, compliance, and mission assurance.
• Direct system analyses including functional decomposition, performance modeling, interface definition, and trade studies to inform decisions.
• Provide technical leadership for program reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, ORR) and ensure milestones are met.
• Oversee development and delivery of complex technical projects, managing shifting priorities and risks.
• Cultivate strategic partnerships with senior leadership and translate requirements into project plans.
• Lead continuous process improvement across the systems engineering lifecycle.
• Optimize operational tools and processes, leveraging automation in satellite and ground operations.
• Guide real-time investigations into operational anomalies and implement solutions to mitigate risks.
• Ensure robust configuration management of ground operations procedures and templates.

What You’ll Need to Succeed

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or related field
• 15+ years of experience in Systems Engineering, Satellite Operations, or Ground Systems Software Development
• Experience with large-scale development for US Government national security programs
• Excellent communication skills to present information, drive discussion, and respond to challenges across diverse groups
• Strong leadership capabilities and ability to motivate and direct teams
• People-oriented and capable of promoting cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to drive discussions, advocate for ideas, and tailor communication to varied audiences
• Creativity, resourcefulness, and decisiveness to manage risks and respond to critical situations
• Strong sense of urgency to drive projects to completion and achieve outcomes
• Excellent prioritization skills and ability to coordinate multiple groups

Nice to Have

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

Other Requirements

• Office presence at least 3 days a week to collaborate with the team and stakeholders
• Travel up to 25%

This position primarily works in an office setting with typical computer-based tasks.

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

Job Details

• Seniority level: Director
• Employment type: Full-time
• Industries: Satellite Telecommunications