Iridium Systems & Mission Operations Internship - Summer 2026 (Virginia)

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.

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 12-week program that runs from May 18,2026 to August 7,2026.

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 a minimum of 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
• US Citizenship is 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.

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