Satellite Engineer

ORBCOMM Inc.; Sterling, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

ORBCOMM Inc. is seeking a Satellite Engineer in Sterling, VA to support the health and performance of our owner-operated LEO satellite network and IoT services.

This role offers hands-on exposure to satellite operations, network analysis, and scripting for service optimization. You’ll collaborate with Satellite Engineering and Operations teams, develop tools to improve reliability, and contribute to continuous improvement across the engineering lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Eng., Aerospace Eng., Systems Eng., or related technical discipline.
• Foundational knowledge of satellite systems (LEO/GEO, link budgets, ground segment operations).
• Basic scripting or programming in Python, Bash, or similar.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and on-call rotation.
• Clear technical documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day health and performance of the owner-operated LEO satellite network.
• Participate in a rotating 24x7 on-call schedule, approx. one week every three.
• Conduct data analysis to identify changes in satellite and network performance.
• Develop flight and ground scripts to optimize service delivery.
• Perform root cause analysis for network and satellite issues.
• Maintain engineering documentation and troubleshooting procedures.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Troubleshooting

Independent worker

On-call readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Python

Bash

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Employee - Full-Time Sterling, VA, US

Salary Range: $80,000.00 To $100,000.00 Annually

Join Us as a Satellite Engineer!

Are you ready to build your career working with real-world satellite systems and next-generation IoT technology? At ORBCOMM, we're looking for a Satellite Engineer to support the health, performance, and continuous improvement of our owner-operated LEO satellite network and next-generation IoT services.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early-to-mid-career engineer with a foundation in satellite systems who wants hands-on experience across satellite operations, network performance, troubleshooting, and service optimization.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Satellite Engineer, you'll work directly with ORBCOMM's satellite and ground infrastructure, helping ensure reliable service for our global IoT network. You'll combine operational support with technical analysis, scripting, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.

You’ll collaborate closely with Satellite Engineering and Operations teams while developing deeper expertise across satellite systems, ground networks, RF communications, and IoT connectivity.

This is a full-time, on-site position based in our Sterling, Virginia office.

What You’ll Do

LEO Satellite Operations

• Support the day-to-day health and performance of ORBCOMM's owner-operated LEO satellite network.
• Participate in a rotating 24x7 second-level on-call schedule, approximately one week out of every three, providing operational verification and real-time issue response.
• Conduct routine and trending data analysis to proactively identify changes in satellite and network performance.
• Develop and maintain flight and ground scripts to optimize service delivery and extend satellite operational life.
• Perform root cause and failure analysis for network anomalies and satellite subsystem issues.
• Maintain technical documentation, troubleshooting procedures, lessons learned, and engineering best practices.

Next-Generation IoT Services

• Monitor network traffic and identify performance trends across leased network infrastructure.
• Partner with Operations teams to identify, troubleshoot, and remediate anomalous network behavior.
• Execute network reconfigurations and earth station calibrations as required.
• Analyze and interpret network metrics in response to customer service inquiries.
• Support the continued performance and reliability of ORBCOMM's next-generation IoT services.

Engineering & Continuous Improvement

• Use data and technical analysis to identify opportunities to improve network reliability and performance.
• Collaborate across Engineering and Operations to investigate and resolve technical issues.
• Develop scripts and tools that improve operational efficiency and engineering analysis.
• Contribute to the continued development of engineering processes, documentation, and technical knowledge.

Who You Are

You're a curious and analytical engineer who enjoys understanding how complex systems work and solving technical problems.

If you have:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering , Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Foundational knowledge of satellite systems, including concepts such as LEO/GEO architectures, link budgets, and ground segment operations.
• Basic proficiency in scripting or programming using Python, Bash, or similar technologies.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and participate in the required on-call rotation.
• Strong written communication skills with the ability to create clear technical documentation.
• 2–5 years of experience in satellite operations, systems engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Hands-on experience with RF systems, ground station equipment, or satellite payload operations is preferred.
• Experience with network monitoring tools or traffic analysis platforms is preferred.
• Leverage AI-enabled tools and automation to support daily tasks and productivity.
• Commitment to continuous learning in digital and AI literacy.

Then we want to meet you!

T he Benefits of Working Here

A career with ORBCOMM offers a unique opportunity to grow your skills and expand your expertise in a collaborative, innovative environment. Beyond being part of an exceptional team, we provide a competitive, locally relevant benefits package designed to support our employees around the world. Benefits vary by location and include health and wellness coverage, paid time off, retirement or savings programs, flexible work arrangements, insurance coverage, lifestyle perks, and access to employee discounts—helping you thrive both professionally and personally.

The anticipated starting salary range for candidates expressing interest in this position is $80,000 - $100,000 USD. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as location, technical experience, skills, certifications, etc.

How We Hire

ORBCOMM uses technology-enabled tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to support parts of the recruitment process. All hiring decisions are made by people, as part of our human-led, tech-enabled culture.

About Us

At ORBCOMM, we’re pioneers in IoT technology that drives innovation and empowers our clients to make data-driven decisions. Our industry-leading solutions enable customers to boost productivity, streamline operations, and increase their bottom line. With over 30 years of experience and the most comprehensive solution portfolio in the industry, we enable the management of millions of assets worldwide across diverse sectors, including transportation, heavy industries, satellite, and maritime. Discover how ORBCOMM is transforming industries and unlocking the potential of data to drive meaningful change at www.orbcomm.com !

Ready to Join Us?

We believe that our people are our greatest asset. Your skills and passion can help us achieve remarkable things! If you’re seeking a thrilling career opportunity in a vibrant, growth-oriented environment, ORBCOMM is the perfect fit for you.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and appreciate all applicants for their interest in joining our team. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

At ORBCOMM, we are also dedicated to ensuring accessibility and are pleased to offer accommodations for individuals with disabilities upon request throughout all aspects of the selection process.