Iridium Systems & Mission Operations Internship - Summer 2027

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.

The Iridium Internship Program provides students the opportunity to support teams driving the future of satellite communications. Interns in Systems & Mission Operations gain hands-on experience contributing to satellite mission planning, ground and space system operations, and engineering projects that support real-time operations. You'll collaborate with engineers, operations staff, and leadership, developing skills in systems analysis, software tools, and satellite operations workflows.

As an Intern, you'll begin making an impact on real projects from day one! Come prepared to grow, develop, and learn alongside a team and the leaders of our company. The Iridium Internship program is a 11-week program that runs from May 18, 2027 to July 30, 2027.

Intern assignments are aligned with your academic background, technical interests, and the needs of our teams, and may include:

Supporting real-time satellite operations and ground system workflows.
• Developing or updating software tools and operational procedures for mission operations.
• Conducting system analyses, simulations, and engineering investigations.
• Assisting with requirements management, documentation, and technical reporting.
• Performing troubleshooting and anomaly resolution for satellites, ground systems, or software tools.
• Contributing to test planning, integration, and validation of mission-critical systems.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to identify risks and implement solutions.

• Hands-on experience in satellite mission operations and systems engineering.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Technical writing, documentation, and presentation experience.
• Collaboration across mission operations, software, and engineering teams.
• Exposure to software development using Python, Java, JavaScript, MATLAB, and/or Perl.
• Familiarity with satellite subsystems and operations, including:
• Attitude Determination & Control
• Electrical Power & Thermal Management
• Propulsion, Computers, & Electronics
• RF Communications (antennas, transceivers, modulation, encoding)
• Experience with Linux/Unix and software management tools like JIRA, GIT, and Bamboo.
• Understanding of testing, systems integration, and operational risk mitigation.

• Strong work ethic, curiosity, and a professional demeanor.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in fast-paced environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality results.
• Interest in learning satellite systems, mission operations, and engineering tools.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be currently enrolled in a bachelor's or graduate degree program at an accredited academic institution.
• Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Space Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering preferred.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Must be able to work in person at an Iridium location.

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.

The hourly pay rate for this position is $31/hr.

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