Satellite System Operator Jobs (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.

If you are a science and space enthusiast who is excited about working on cutting-edge technology and with a talented team of professionals, then you will be excited about the Ground System Operator II opening with Iridium for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a Ground System Operator II, you will participate in monitoring and controlling ground systems at one of the SDA Operations Centers.RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROVIDED! Inquire about details. You will work 12-hour shifts with a team in a 24/7, multi-satellite operations environment. You will thrive in this role if you have a desire to learn and execute new technical skills and are highly motivated and passionate about engineering and space systems. 

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). 

• Perform real-time monitoring of the ground system in support of the SDA mission 
• Analyze operational data and execute first level troubleshooting to resolve issues 
• Monitor spacecraft fleet-level health and status 
• Work collaboratively with the team to detect and recover from issues within the Iridium ground system applications, and for a global network of remote teleport antennas and Wide Area Network (WAN) 
• Support real-time anomaly investigation and resolution and follow established Fault Escalation policies and procedures 
• Support process improvement initiatives by properly documenting all events through an anomaly and issue reporting process 
• Create accurate, timely, and descriptive event logging for all ground system outages or system events 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field OR equivalent relevant experience in a network operations or spacecraft operations environment in lieu of degree 
• 2+ years of related engineering experience 
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly present information and ideas to others 
• Have confidence and be able to easily build meaningful relationships with your manager and members of your team 
• Must be able to prioritize your tasks, be self-aware enough to identify and correct your mistakes, and not be afraid to ask for help when needed 
• Be active in seeking out ways to improve yourself and gain new knowledge, and be enthusiastic in sharing knowledge with others 

• Proficiency in the LINUX operating system, as well as standard PC usage and applications 
• Familiarity with software development and programming skills 

• Work 12-hour shifts 
• Be a U.S. citizen 

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: $75,000 - $95,000 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.