Solution Architect, Satellite Mesh Networks (Reston)

Solution Architect For Satellite Networks

Iridium is an award-winning and innovative satellite communications company with 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 :

Iridium is seeking a forward-thinking solution architect for satellite networks for a USG program, with deep expertise in designing and deploying resilient, scalable, and adaptive mesh networking architectures in support of advanced U.S. Government (USG) or commercial satellite programs. In this role, you'll architect next-generation, satellite-integrated low earth orbit mesh network solutions that enable high-reliability, low-latency communications across dynamic and contested environments. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders to design highly automated, software-driven mesh networks that can self-heal, adapt in real-time to traffic loads and topology changes, and scale for future mission demands.

This position requires an active / current Secret Security Clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS / SCI. (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active.)

What You'll Do :

• Architect and implement mesh-based network solutions for satellite ground systems and edge environments, enabling decentralized routing, autonomous node management, and dynamic topology support
• Design self-forming and self-healing L2 / L3 mesh topologies to support high-availability and mission-critical communication networks
• Develop and integrate control-plane architectures capable of managing mesh connectivity across space, airborne, and terrestrial nodes
• Lead the design of software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) architectures optimized for distributed mesh environments
• Employ protocols and technologies such as NETCONF / YANG, MPLS, and OSPF, to enable secure and automated routing across the mesh
• Simulate, test, and validate network performance and resilience under dynamic mission conditions using advanced network modeling tools and emulation platforms
• Lead engineers in implementing and evolving the mesh architecture designs throughout the system lifecycle
• Guide systems engineers, software developers, and mission operations teams to ensure seamless integration of networking functions within satellite ground and payload systems
• Contribute to CONOPS / OPSCON development, particularly with respect to real-time autonomous network management and mission assurance in mesh architectures
• Lead technical response efforts in proposals and new business pursuits related to resilient networking architectures

What You'll Need to Succeed :

Things That Would Be Great If You Brought To The Table :

We'll Also Need You To :

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.

Iridium is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.