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Satellite Communications Systems Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

Job Title: Satellite Communications Systems Engineer
Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:
We’re looking for a hands-on engineer with a strong background in RF, embedded systems, and satellite communications. In this role, you'll be responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing spacecraft communication systems—from radios and antennas to software-defined radios (SDRs) and ground stations. You'll work across hardware and software, supporting everything from initial design to lab testing to in-orbit validation.

This position is ideal for someone who thrives on solving complex engineering problems, enjoys wearing multiple hats, and wants to contribute to cutting-edge satellite technology.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Design and evolve communication systems for spacecraft, including direct-to-ground links and inter-satellite relays using SDRs

  • Evaluate and select RF components such as radios and antennas

  • Perform link budget analyses, capacity planning, and interference mitigation

  • Collaborate with systems engineering on constellation/network design and performance

  • Support integration and testing of communication subsystems in the lab and with spacecraft partners

  • Set up and test payload configurations to validate communication performance

  • Define operational concepts and support ground station integration

  • Maintain technical documentation throughout development

Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a related field

  • Strong hands-on experience with software-defined radios and RF signal processing

  • Familiarity with integrating radios, antennas, and ground stations—preferably in space systems

  • Proficiency in C++, C, Python, or MATLAB

  • Comfortable working in Linux-based environments

  • Experience with communication protocols and standards like DVB-S2, CCSDS, LoRa, TCP/IP, SNMP, etc.

  • Prior experience with microcontrollers and embedded software is a plus

  • Self-motivated and able to work both independently and in collaborative teams



Satellite Communications Systems Engineer

Falls Church, VA
Full time

Published on 07/11/2025

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