Engineer III, Flight Dynamics Analyst

About the role

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.

This Flight Dynamics Analyst position supports a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. You will participate in monitoring and controlling ground systems at the Operations Centers in Grand Forks, ND or Huntsville, AL, working 12-hour shifts in a 24-hour, multi-satellite operations environment. An active/current Secret Security Clearance is required (a U.S. Security Clearance active within the past 24 months is considered active).

Responsibilities

• Perform orbit analysis, constellation position trending, real-time monitoring, and management
• Develop and validate all station-keeping maneuvers to maintain tight pointing and crosslink requirements; assist in execution of all maneuver planning for ascent, collision avoidance, and cross-track maneuvers
• Conduct real-time conjunction analysis to assess collision risk and execute mitigation efforts as necessary
• Ensure quality and timely generation of predictive orbital events to support other domains
• Take an active role in development and maintenance of Flight Dynamics procedures
• Continuously improve tools and processes for streamlined operations

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field
• 5+ years directly applicable experience working with satellites or in the space field
• Understanding of orbital mechanics and related physics
• Proficient with standard Microsoft Office/engineering tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to work in a high-paced operational environment, often providing off-hours support
• Strong communication skills, with ability to confidently present products, deliverables, analyses, and/or issues
• Analytical mindset with ability to understand situations/problems and think critically to make decisions or develop solutions
• Comfortable managing upward — proactive communicator who asks for help when needed
• Confidence to establish valuable relationships with others
• Ability to prioritize key tasks with strong sense of ownership
• Active in seeking ways to continuously improve and gain new knowledge
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and complete them on time with minimal errors

Preferred qualifications

• Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering
• General knowledge working in a Linux operating system
• Familiarity with software development and programming skills
• General understanding of satellite operations, orbit dynamics, and satellite subsystems

Additional requirements

• Work 12-hour shifts
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

Work environment

This position primarily works in an office setting and is largely sedentary, with the majority of work performed at a computer. The role typically requires use of basic office equipment such as phone, video, computer, keyboard, mouse, and printer. 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.

Pay

Base Pay Range: $90,000 – $120,000 USD. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors; this range represents an estimate at the time of posting. Base salary is only one part of the compensation package — you may also be eligible for company stock and annual bonus.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan options
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Other discounts and perks