Director, System Engineering, Integration and Test (SEIT)

Company Overview

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:

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).

What You’ll Do:

• 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

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or related field
• 15+ years of relevant experience in Systems Engineering, Satellite Operations, or Ground Systems Software Development
• Experience with large scale complex development for US Government national security programs
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present information, drive discussion, and respond to difficult scenarios with limited preparation across all employee groups  
• Capable of being a strong motivator and source of direction for your team and exemplifying commitment to your team’s goals 
• Have a people-oriented mentality and actively promote cross-functional team building 
• Able to confidently drive discussions, raise support for key ideas, and tailor your communication style to a wide range of audiences 
• Possess the creativity, resourcefulness, and decisiveness needed to manage risks and respond to critical situations 
• Have a strong sense of urgency in driving projects to completion and be motivated to achieve outcomes and results 
• Excellent prioritization skills and the ability to effectively coordinate the activities of multiple groups 

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

• Masters degree in aerospace engineering or related field
• Knowledge of missile defense systems and programs
• TS/SCI clearance

We’ll also need you to:

• Be able to work in the office at least 4 or more days a week to foster collaboration with the team and stakeholders 
• Be able to travel up to 25%
• Be a U.S. Citizen

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: $200,000 - $260,000 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.