Developing a 5G Dream Team:

What does it take to build a team that developed Boost Mobile’s nationwide 5G network? For Rachael Ostertag, one of our Talent Acquisition Managers (leading Boost Mobile Technology Recruiting), it’s a blend of strategic thinking, unwavering support for her team and a passion for identifying individuals who will shape the future of connectivity. Rachael offers a behind-the-scenes look at her career journey, the vibrant culture at EchoStar and invaluable advice for those looking to make their mark in the dynamic world of telecommunications.

Having stepped into her current leadership role in August 2022, Rachael’s day-to-day worklife is far from routine. It’s a dynamic mix of analyzing hiring data to drive strategic decisions, resolving any hurdles that might impede the recruitment process, and, most importantly, helping her team members grow. “A big part of my role is empowering my team,” Rachael explains. Whether it’s navigating complex searches or celebrating successes, her focus is on creating an environment where her team feels valued and motivated to bring in the talent that will propel our projects forward.

The most rewarding aspect of her work, Rachael shares, is witnessing her team’s growth and their ability to identify the individuals who will become future leaders. She takes immense pride in fostering a supportive environment where creative problem-solving thrives. The challenges, she admits, lie in the rigorous process of ensuring the best talent is brought on board. This involves a comprehensive evaluation, incorporating interview feedback, references, assessments and other tools to create a holistic candidate profile. 

Rachael’s own passion and purpose at EchoStar have been cultivated through a continuous drive for improvement and a commitment to her team’s success. She actively seeks opportunities to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration and contribute to cross-functional projects. A key element of this journey has been actively listening to and implementing feedback from her team. By prioritizing their input, she’s been able to enact changes that not only improve processes but also make her team feel heard and valued, aligning her passion for innovation with her leadership role.

For those searching for their own passion and voice at work, Rachael offers a powerful piece of advice she learned early in her career at DISH: “Everyone’s voice matters.” As a junior recruiter, she identified inefficiencies and, despite her relative inexperience, spoke up. This initiative led to her leading a project to address these challenges, bolstering her confidence and reinforcing the importance of speaking up, regardless of your perceived experience level. Rachael encourages everyone to be bold and authentic. “Strong leaders recognize the importance of varied viewpoints and will appreciate the value you bring to the table."

Our culture is described by Rachael as “incredibly driven and collaborative.” The emphasis on curiosity, innovation and teamwork fosters an environment where common goals are readily pursued. The fully on-site nature of our work enhances collaboration and accelerates the onboarding process for new hires. A standout aspect of our culture is the commitment to growth and development, with exceptional leadership programs tailored to support team members at every career stage. Rachael herself has benefited from these programs and is particularly proud of the new interview certification program she helped implement, which promotes structured and bias-free hiring practices.

Achieving work-life balance is a priority for Rachael and her team, who live by the motto "work hard, play hard." Quarterly offsite events dedicated to fun and networking build strong camaraderie, reinforcing that they are a supportive team beyond just colleagues. A culture of shared accountability ensures that when someone needs time off, the team steps up to cover, making it easier to unplug and enjoy personal time.

For individuals new to the industry, Rachael advises that “this industry thrives on collaboration and creativity.” She emphasizes the groundbreaking work we undertook in building America’s first 5G ORAN network, a bold challenge that requires fresh perspectives and a willingness to innovate.

Looking back at her career, the most valuable advice Rachael ever received shifted her leadership approach from being solely focused on metrics to prioritizing genuine connections with her team. “Goals are best achieved when your team feels valued and supported,” her mentor advised. This people-first approach has led to stronger team retention, increased accountability and a more collaborative culture.

Rachael’s journey at EchoStar offers a compelling glimpse into our values that foster innovation and provide ample opportunities for growth. Her dedication to her team, her passion for improving processes and her insightful advice make our teams an inspiring place to build a meaningful and impactful career in the forefront of technological advancement.