Director, System Engineering, Integration and Test; SEIT

US-VA-Reston | US-AZ-Chandler

Engineering

Regular Full-Time[F]

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 passionate about space and deploying disruptive space technology, you'll be excited about the Director, System Engineering, Integration and Test (SEIT) position for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a leader of the System Engineering, Integration and Test (SEIT) team, you will be be responsible for implementing continuous improvements cross-functionally, by setting objectives and effectively managing multiple priorities, as it relates to the design, development, integration, test and delivery of ground system capabilities supporting the program.

As the Director of SEIT for our satellite ground segment program, you will be the key technical leader accountable for the successful execution of our strategic vision. You will lead a large team of engineers, guiding all aspects of the systems engineering, integration and test lifecycle from concept to verification and delivery. This role requires a dynamic leader who can drive technical excellence, cultivate strategic partnerships with senior stakeholders, and ensure the successful and efficient operation of our ground segment to support critical mission objectives.

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

Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team comprised of architecture, systems, modeling and simulation, test and automation, and integration engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and technical excellence to deliver a high-quality satellite ground segment

• Architect and execute the strategic vision for the SEIT team, ensuring alignment with program objectives and consistently delivering superior results across all initiatives
• Champion the integration of robust SEIT best practices and processes across the entire program, significantly enhancing efficiency, compliance, and overall mission assurance
• Direct comprehensive system analyses-including functional decomposition, performance modeling, interface definition, and trade studies-to drive critical, data-informed decision-making and optimize program outcomes
• Orchestrate and provide technical leadership for key program reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, ORR), ensuring successful progression through critical milestones and alignment with overarching strategic goals
• Oversee the development and delivery of complex technical projects, effectively managing shifting priorities and risks to consistently achieve and exceed organizational objectives
• Cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with senior leadership and executive stakeholders, translating technical requirements into comprehensive project plans and driving organizational success
• Initiate and lead continuous process improvement initiatives across the SEIT lifecycle, establishing frameworks for operational consistency and significant enhancements in efficiency
• Direct the optimization of operational tools and processes, leveraging automation to improve satellite and ground operations and reduce manual overhead
• Guide critical, real-time investigations into complex operational anomalies, developing and implementing solutions to mitigate risks and ensure uninterrupted satellite and ground segment operations
• Ensure robust configuration management of all ground operations procedures and templates, establishing a framework for operational consistency, compliance, and reliability