Manager, Lab Test Engineering

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.

What We’re Looking For:

Iridium is seeking a Manager, Lab Test Engineering to lead the daily operations of a highly technical RF and system‑level test laboratory. This role combines hands‑on technical expertise in lab hardware and RF systems with leadership responsibilities. In this position, you will manage lab readiness, configuration control, equipment lifecycle, and safe operation of RF and hardware test assets while supporting system integration, troubleshooting, and engineering decision‑making. This position will collaborate closely with engineering teams to develop and execute test plans, interpret system requirements, and continuously evolve test methodologies, automation, and lab processes to increase efficiency and quality. The Manager of Lab Test Engineering is a great role for a technically strong leader who enjoys developing engineers, optimizing lab operations, and ensuring reliable, high‑quality testing for mission‑critical systems.

What You’ll Do:

• Manage daily operations of the RF and system‑level testing laboratory, ensuring configuration control, calibration, readiness, and safe operation of test assets and environments.
• Provide hands‑on support using RF hardware, system integration tools, instrumentation, and troubleshooting workflows.
• Oversee equipment lifecycle planning, including procurement, maintenance, calibration cycles, and decommissioning.
• Identify opportunities to improve test processes, lab workflows, automation, and overall operational efficiency.
• Support Agile testing processes and contribute to backlog prioritization, aligning lab readiness and testing needs with various program goals.
• Provide clear and concise communication on project progress, risks, and resource needs to leadership and stakeholders.
• Supervise lab personnel, managing workload prioritization and coordinating assignments.
• Provide regular coaching, feedback, and development guidance to lab engineers.
• Foster a disciplined operational environment emphasizing technical rigor, data integrity, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Effectively manage conflict, foster teamwork, and build strong working relationships across engineering groups.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of progressive technical experience in test engineering, RF systems, satellite, aerospace, or telecommunications environments.
• Strong hands-on experience with:
  • RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, signal generators, VNAs, power meters)
  • Lab hardware and instrumentation
  • Hardware test automation tools
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, manage complex workflows, and troubleshoot system integration issues.
• Strong understanding of requirements analysis, verification/validation processes, and anomaly resolution.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting across technical and leadership audiences.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to think critically, propose practical solutions, and operate with a sense of urgency.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and lead teams through shifting technical demands.

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

• Prior experience managing a technical lab or RF test team.
• Strong project management skills coordinating cross-functional activities.
• Advanced engineering degree.

We’ll also need you to:

• This position directly performs under, supports, or is exposed to a U.S. government contract. To comply with the requirements of that U.S. government contract, applicants for this position must be U.S. citizens
• Be able to work in the office to foster collaboration with the team and stakeholders
• Be willing and able to travel up to 15 days annually
• Be willing and able to be on-call to support operational issues

Work Environment:

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: $115,000 - $150,000

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.