Senior RF/Satellite Communications & Architectures Engineer — El Segundo, CA

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

The Communication Architectures Department (CAD) has three main lines of work: the department performs trade studies, analyses, and simulations to optimize the overall communications performance of terrestrial, satellite, launch vehicle, and ground-based systems. CAD also guides the development of spectrum regulations and policies to assure critical wireless systems have access to necessary spectrum resources. Finally, we are actively engaged in the development of RF communications prototypes, especially those involving commercial LEO and MEO satellite systems as well as hybrid commercial and US Government (USG) systems.

The role of the Engineering Specialist - Communications Systems Engineering: designs, develops, models, simulates, tests, and analyzes communications systems, subsystems, and electronic signals for communication networks, data links, digital radio, battle management, and command and control systems. Examples include wide and local area networks, point-to-point systems, and secure systems. They apply knowledge of communications systems, modulation schema, signal coding, digital and wireless radio/communications technology, network architecture design, and related concepts, methods, techniques and tools, and document work and results.

The role of the Senior Member of Technical Staff – Communications Systems Engineering: supports the design, development, modeling, simulation, testing, and analysis of communications systems, subsystems, and electronic signals for communication networks, data links, digital radio, battle management, and command and control systems. Examples include wide and local area networks, point-to-point systems, and secure systems. They apply knowledge of communications systems, modulation schema, signal coding, digital and wireless radio/communications technology, network architecture design, and related concepts, methods, techniques and tools. Senior MTS personnel work collaboratively on technical projects and document work and results.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Performing technical analyses of terrestrial and space-based communication systems, including latest-generation cellular and commercial pLEO
• Developing working prototypes leveraging these systems and novel hardware to demonstrate capability improvements
• Assess the performance of satellite and ground systems, communication links, and wireless network protocols
• Document work products in briefings and/or technical reports to customers and colleagues
• Opportunities to propose and carry out internal R&D projects, engage in field work, and publish in conferences and journals

What You Need to be Successful – Senior Member of Technical Staff

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• A minimum of 4 years' practical experience in a relevant STEM field, including graduate studies
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and C++ (or similar)
• Hands-on experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Bitbucket)
• Strong understanding of wireless communications principles and signal processing techniques
• Demonstrated experience contributing to or leading elements of engineering projects in a professional setting, with ability to collaborate across teams and deliver technical solutions
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance as required, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Engineering Specialist:

• A minimum of 7 years' practical experience working in a relevant STEM field
• Proven track record leading engineering teams or projects in a professional setting, with demonstrated success driving cross-functional initiatives, managing project timelines, mentoring junior staff, and delivering effective technical solutions

How You Can Stand Out

• Experience with frequency selection and spectrum management
• Background in commercial satellite communications (commercial SATCOM) systems
• Experience with network traffic modeling and analysis
• Demonstrated track record in tested AI/ML applications, particularly as applied to RF and network data
• Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance
• Graduate degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant field

(Min - Max)

$110,400.00 - $193,500.00

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

Equal Opportunity Commitment