Satellite Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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.

We are looking for an engineer who loves working with computer systems and is heavily invested in the space industry. As a Payload Computer Systems Engineer, you will work among a diverse engineering and analysis team to perform design, testing, on-orbit checkout and monitoring, anomaly resolution and hardware longevity efforts of satellite payload computer hardware and software for the Iridium satellite constellation. In this role, you will work with cross functional engineering teams including payload software development, system integration and test, mission operations and system architecture. You will also develop expertise in new technologies and rapidly adapt to evolving mission needs, helping deliver innovative functionality and services that keep Iridium at the forefront of the commercial space industry.

• Conduct payload computer, modem board, and power supply performance analysis and create plans and procedures for 240 payload computers, 320 modem boards, and 160 power supplies
• Analyze on-orbit payload computer hardware and software performance and respond to computer anomalies whether software related, hardware failures or space environment induced
• Collaborate with payload software development team, satellite subsystem engineers and test teams to prepare a vehicle software build for on-orbit deployment and on-orbit test
• Interface with vehicle manufacturer and payload computer vendors to discuss and resolve on-orbit computer hardware and software issues
• Perform satellite payload computer data bus analysis (SpaceWire, MGT, SelectMap, ML16DS16)
• Analyze computer/modem board space environment effects
  • SDRAM/Flash memory analysis for bit error/failure mitigation
  • Modem board SEFI analysis and mitigation
  • Dosimeter data analysis and FPGA SEFI scrub cycle performance
• Participate in characterization and prioritization of payload software features and defects within payload software builds and present results

• Deliver operational satellite software products (telemetry tables, command sequences, on-board databases, new software product loads) through configuration management systems
• Develop technical documentation and provide training and knowledge transfer to operations personnel and new engineering team members
• Lead and execute multiple payload computer engineering efforts concurrently, including satellite anomaly investigation, hardware longevity analysis, software feature implementation, and on-orbit validation

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline
• 8+ years of experience supporting spacecraft or satellite payload computer systems, embedded systems, or closely related engineering environments
• Experience troubleshooting hardware and software issues within complex, mission-critical systems
• Working knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, Java, and Python
• Experience working in Unix/Linux environments
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary engineering teams
• 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

• Familiarity with Atlassian Tool Suite, GitLab or similar configuration management tools
• Familiarity with PowerPC processors, Xilinx FPGA architecture, Space Wire bus protocols
• Familiarity with space operations environment

• Must be willing and able to participate in a 24/7 on-call environment to support critical satellite operations
• Be able to travel up to two times per year
• This role requires access to export-controlled technologies; candidates must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by U.S. export control laws (ITAR/EAR)

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: $120,000 - $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.