Operations Engineer I, Ground System Operator

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 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 Operations Engineer I, Ground System Operator opening with Iridium for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a Ground System Operator I, you will participate in monitoring and controlling ground systems at one of the SDA Operations Centers. 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.  RELOCATION BONUS PROVIDED! Inquire about details.   

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). 

What You’ll Do:

• Assist with real-time monitoring of the ground system in support of the SDA mission 
• Participate in analyzing operational data and executing first level troubleshooting to resolve issues 
• Assist with monitoring 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 

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• 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 
• A basic knowledge of general engineering experience 
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate key messages and ideas clearly and effectively 
• Can cultivate meaningful relationships with your manager and members of your team, while being open and responsive to constructive feedback as they guide and mentor you 
• The ability to think outside the box to help solve problems, with the humility to ask for help when needed 
• Adaptability to a dynamic environment and the readiness to take on any new tasks that are handed to you 
• A motivation to achieve outcomes and results 
• Capable of handling multiple tasks at once and completing them on time with mostly no errors 
• An eagerness to develop professionally, continuously learn, and share knowledge with others 

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

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

We’ll also need you to:

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

Work Environment: 

This position exclusively works onsite in a classified operations center; remote work is not available. The position is largely sedentary with the majority of the position sitting in a chair and working with a computer. The role uses basic office equipment including a phone, video, computer, keyboard, mouse and printer. For meetings in person, this position will need to be able stand, walk within the office and climb stairs on occasion.  

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.  

Equal Employment Opportunity  

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