Systems Engineering Deputy Director

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 passionate about space and deploying disruptive space technology, then you will be excited about the Systems Engineering Deputy Director opening with Iridium for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a Deputy Director, you'll be responsible for working with senior management to establish strategic plans and objectives as it relates to providing technically feasible solutions for the assigned projects, ensuring the projects have common Systems Engineering processes, implementing common solutions to technical problems, and working closely with the program managers. You will be responsible for implementing continuous improvements cross-functionally, by setting objectives and effectively managing multiple priorities. In this role, you will focus primarily on technical aspects of the architecture and design of the program. You will thrive in this role if you have extensive experience in systems engineering and strong knowledge in design of satellite command and control networks.

This position requires an active/current Top-Secret Security Clearance or the ability to obtain a Top-Secret Security Clearance (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active).

What You'll Do:

Develop and execute long-term strategic plans for system engineering, integration, and test activities, aligning with program objectives and milestones
• Define and implement a technical strategy to ensure system performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness
• Identify and assess emerging technologies to drive innovation and improve system capabilities
• Develop and execute a comprehensive risk management strategy to mitigate technical and programmatic risks
• Monitor and control program costs and schedules related to SEIT (System Engineering, Integration, and Test) activities
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, and regulatory agencies, to ensure program success
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance SEIT processes and methodologies
• Provide technical leadership for system engineering, integration, and test activities across the entire satellite program lifecycle
• Lead and mentor a team of highly skilled engineers responsible for system design, integration, and verification
• Oversee the development, management, and verification of system requirements
• Plan, coordinate, and execute system integration and test activities, including hardware and software integration
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks throughout the program
• Ensure configuration control and traceability of system components and documentation
• Lead the investigation and resolution of system anomalies and failures
• Manage interfaces between subsystems and external systems
• Develop and maintain system engineering documentation, including requirements, design documents, test plans, and procedures

What You'll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field
• 15+ years related system engineering experience for complex technical projects, preferably direct experience in telecommunications, ground networks, electronic product development/manufacturing or satellites
• Extensive experience in satellite systems engineering, integration, and test
• Proven leadership and management skills
• Strong technical knowledge of satellite subsystems, including spacecraft, ground systems, and mission operations
• Experience with system engineering processes and tools
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present information, drive discussion, and respond to difficult scenarios with limited preparation across all employee groups
• The ability to build productive relationships with all levels of leadership to build consensus and drive results and champion collaboration across multiple departments
• Be able to think on your feet to respond to difficult situations and resolve issues
• Must possess good judgement and decisiveness
• Actively looks for ways to enhance and improve current processes and procedures
• Skilled at managing multiple priorities while ensuring that work is of high quality
• Must be proactive in seeking out knowledge and sharing what you've learned with others

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

• Knowledge and experience with designing, developing, and operating various Command and Control Systems (i.e: Comet, InControl, etc)
• Knowledge and experience with aspects of the Agile software development process and/or Scaled Agile practices
• Programming languages such as: Java, JavaScript, Python, Shell scripting
• Working knowledge of networking protocols, routers, switches, etc
• Familiarity with Atlassian Tool Suite

We'll Also Need You To:

• Be willing and able to travel up to 10%
• Be a U.S. Citizen

Work Environment:

This position primarily works in the company office or in a home office. 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 in person meetings, this position will need to be able stand, walk within the office and climb stairs on occasion.

Iridium is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or status as a protected veteran. EOE of Minorities/Females/Vets/Disability and other protected categories.