Contract Aviation Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Iridium is an award-winning satellite communications company operating the world's only truly global voice and data network, delivering reliable connectivity anywhere on Earth. For more than 20 years, Iridium has powered mission-critical communications for governments, businesses, aviation, maritime, and the rapidly expanding Internet of Things.

Now part of Iridium, Aireon is the world's only space-based air traffic surveillance system, providing real-time visibility of aircraft over oceans, the poles, and remote regions. Together, Iridium and Aireon are helping build a safer, more connected, and more efficient future for global aviation.

Join our team and help shape how the world stays connected. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture where employees are empowered to innovate, grow professionally, and make a meaningful impact.

Are you a space enthusiast with a passion for cutting-edge technology and a desire to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry? We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Software Engineer on our Space Software Product Engineering (SSPE) team! This role is responsible for development and maintenance of critical ground software for our satellites' L-Band Radio Frequency (RF) resource planning and management. As well, the role focuses on evaluating system performance, recommending improvements, and collaborating across teams to ensure reliaiblity and enhance the overall experience for our end-users. You will make a valuable contribution to the team's success with skills in design, coding, testing, and documentation.  If you are looking to further develop your skills and expertise in a dynamic and innovative environment, we encourage you to apply!

• Execute the technical and feature roadmap for our L-Band Table Generator software product
• Participate in knowledge transfer from subject matter experts (SMEs) on the L-Band Space Vehicle Real Time (SVRT) domain
• Maintain and leverage knowledge of L-Band SVRT to independently evaluate system performance and provide recommendations
• Work cross-functionally with stakeholders to drive continuous performance enhancements of L-Band SVRT
• Independently drive efforts and initiatives to completion with minimal technical oversight
• Maintain and update the knowledgebase for both software design documentation and SVRT domain knowledge
• Facilitate cross-training of other team members on SVRT and on-orbit L-Band operational needs 
• Act as a key member of our Agile scrum team; lead and participate in daily standup meetings, sprint planning meetings, sprint reviews/demonstrations, and retrospectives
• Develop software following the team's 'Definition of Done' ensuring that each task is completed to the team's best practices and approved standards
• Cultivate technical growth and promote a culture of excellence within the engineering team

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering or computer system engineering, or related field
• 8+ years of relevant experience in the software programming industry
• Five or more years of relevant experience developing embedded software using C++
• Experience developing software using Atlassian Tools: Jira, Bitbucket, Fisheye/Crucible  and Confluence
• Be proficient working primarily in a Linux environment
• A strong background in troubleshooting and problem solving
• Knowledge of and experience with all aspects of the Software Development Life Cycle process
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey products, deliverables, analyses, and/or issues to groups outside of your team or those who are unfamiliar with the topic
• Have confidence and be able to easily build relationships with leadership and colleagues outside of your team
• Possess an analytical mindset, with the ability to understand a situation or problem and think critically to make decisions and come up with out-of-the-box solutions
• Be proactive in providing feedback and be enthusiastic in sharing your knowledge with others
• Be capable of prioritizing your own tasks and potentially the tasks of others while making sure deadlines are met

• Master's degree in computer science, computer engineering or computer system engineering, or related engineering degree

• Be on call for satellite and space anomalies (rare occurrence, typically 1-2 times per year)
• Be able to travel up to approximately 14 days per year
• Be able to work a hybrid schedule that includes 4 days in office
• Be a U.S. Citizen with no dual citizenships

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: $125,000 - $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.