Manager, Lab Test Engineering

Iridium Satellite, LLC•Chandler, AZ

7d•$115,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Iridium is seeking a Manager, Lab Test Engineering to lead daily operations of a technical RF and system-level test laboratory. The role combines hands-on expertise in lab hardware and RF systems with leadership responsibilities. The manager will oversee lab readiness, configuration control, equipment lifecycle, and safe operation of RF and hardware test assets, while supporting system integration, troubleshooting, and engineering decisions. The manager will work closely with engineering teams to develop and execute test plans, interpret system requirements, and improve test methodologies, automation, and lab processes. The position supervises and develops lab personnel, coordinates workloads, and promotes technical rigor, data integrity, safety, and continuous improvement. The role works in an office setting under Iridium’s hybrid policy, which requires at least four days per week in an Iridium office. It also requires U.S. citizenship, travel of up to 15 days annually, and on-call availability for operational issues.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline.
At least 8 years of progressive technical experience in test engineering, RF systems, satellite, aerospace, or telecommunications environments.
Strong hands-on experience with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, VNAs, and power meters.
Strong hands-on experience with lab hardware and instrumentation.
Strong hands-on experience with hardware test automation tools.
Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, manage complex workflows, and troubleshoot system integration issues.
Strong understanding of requirements analysis, verification and validation processes, and anomaly resolution.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for engaging technical and leadership audiences.
Analytical mindset, critical-thinking ability, practical problem-solving skills, and a sense of urgency.
Ability to prioritize tasks and lead teams through changing technical demands.
Must be a U.S. citizen because the position performs under, supports, or is exposed to a U.S. government contract.
Must be able to work in the office to foster collaboration with the team and stakeholders.
Must be willing and able to travel up to 15 days annually.
Must be willing and able to be on-call to support operational issues.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience managing a technical lab or RF test team.
Strong project management skills coordinating cross-functional activities.
Advanced engineering degree.

Responsibilities

Manage daily operations of the RF and system-level testing laboratory, ensuring configuration control, calibration, readiness, and safe operation of test assets and environments.
Provide hands-on support using RF hardware, system integration tools, instrumentation, and troubleshooting workflows.
Oversee equipment lifecycle planning, including procurement, maintenance, calibration cycles, and decommissioning.
Identify opportunities to improve test processes, lab workflows, automation, and operational efficiency.
Support Agile testing processes and contribute to backlog prioritization, aligning lab readiness and testing needs with program goals.
Communicate project progress, risks, and resource needs clearly to leadership and stakeholders.
Supervise lab personnel, prioritize workloads, and coordinate assignments.
Coach lab engineers and provide feedback and development guidance.
Promote technical rigor, data integrity, safety, and continuous improvement.
Manage conflict, foster teamwork, and build relationships across engineering groups.