New

Tracking Data Fusion (TDF) Mission Operator III

Iridium Satellite LLC

United States, North Dakota, Grand Forks Air Force Base

Mar 04, 2026

Tracking Data Fusion (TDF) Mission Operator III

Job Locations

US-ND-Grand Forks AFB

Job ID

2026-4868

Category

Engineering

Worker Category

Regular Full-Time[F]

Company Overview

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

If you are enthusiastic about working in the space industry, then you will be excited about the Tracking Data Fusion (TDF) Mission Operator opening with Iridium for a Space Development Agency (SDA) project. As a Tracking Data Fusion Operator, you'll perform real time monitoring of surveillance data and associated satellite communications links for the Operations Centers. You will work 12-hour shifts with a team in a 24-hour, multi-satellite operations environment. You will thrive in this role if you have a desire to be part of a team on the forefront of one of the most advanced satellite constellations in the world and are highly motivated and passionate about engineering and space systems.

This position requires an active/current Secret Security Clearance and the ability to obtain a 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:

Assist with validity checks, real-time performance monitoring, collection planning and monitoring of system

Provide Test and System Validation support to the following activities:
- Integration & Test
- System Validation of Requirements
- Data Processing Test
- Data Processing Validation
- Tuning and Analysis
Assist with Data Processing operations
Be responsible for marking data for long term storage
Utilize complex data analytics tools to track, trend, and analyze Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) surveillance data and anomalous conditions that may affect operations
Play a role investigating root cause analysis and resolve issues where situations require an in-depth evaluation of factors that have been discovered or referred by operations teams
Work independently to gather information and leverage tools to provide visuals of data for evaluation
Be responsible for developing training to support plans and procedures
Identify and autonomously implement ideas, solutions, processes, procedures, and checklists focused on continuous process improvement, and more efficient operations
Support real-time investigation and troubleshooting for operations anomalies related to tracking data

What You'll Need to Succeed:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field OR equivalent relevant experience in lieu of degree
5+ years of relevant experience working in surveillance or space field
Strong communication skills, with the ability to confidently present products, deliverables, analyses, and/or issues
Possess an analytical mindset, with the ability to understand a situation or problem and think critically to make decisions or come up with solutions
Be comfortable managing upward, including being a proactive communicator and asking for help when needed
Have confidence and be able to establish valuable relationships with others
Must be able to prioritize key tasks and have a strong sense of ownership over your work
Be active in seeking out ways to continuously improve yourself and gain new knowledge

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

Active TOP SECRET DoD (Department of Defense) security clearance
Experience with advanced data fusion
Real time operations with the DoD

We'll also need you to:

Work 12-hour shifts
Be a U.S. Citizen

Work Environment:

This position exclusively works in the operations center. The position is largely sedentary with the majority of the position sitting in a chair and working with a computer. The role uses basic office equipment including a phone, video, computer, keyboard, mouse and printer. For meetings in person, this position will need to be able stand, walk within the office and climb stairs on occasion.

Iridium is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or status as a protected veteran. EOE of Minorities/Females/Vets/Disability and other protected categories.