CesiumAstro is looking for a Spacecraft Communication Systems Engineer to own the design, configuration, and operation of satellite space-to-ground communication links. You will define how the satellite communicates with the ground in both nominal and off-nominal conditions, ensuring reliable command, telemetry, and fault recovery.
What You'll Do
- Own the RF Link – Model, analyze and maintain the satellite’s link budget, modulation and coding, ensuring reliable communications from space to ground for all RF links
- Own End-to-End Encryption—Architect hardware-based crypto solutions for flight hardware, manage pass-throughs and end points for users and operations
- Manage Ground Stations—Develop a strong understanding of ground station and network operations with the ability to troubleshoot issues with commercial providers and on-site terminals
- Develop Operational Concepts – Define how the radios are used in different mission phases, including contingency operations and emergency recovery
- Integrate & Test – Own the RF link test campaign and work with flight software and ground teams to validate end-to-end communication link performance, from antenna to command center
- Solve Hard Problems – Optimize low-SWaP communications, mitigate interference, and ensure robust, fail-safe links
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field
- A minimum of 9 years of experience with emphasis on satellite communications, RF system engineering, or related fields
- Expertise in design, verification, and operation of satellite communication links
- Strong understanding of link budget analysis, modulation schemes, and ground station interfaces
- Hands-on experience configuring and testing ground station equipment and space-qualified radios and antennas
- Practical understanding of how space links fail, why, and how to fix them before they break
- Ability to define and implement communication system CONOPS for nominal and emergency operations
- Experience with satellite communication link licensing and regulatory compliance (ITU/FCC)
Team & Environment
You will join a passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking team in a dynamic and cross-functional work environment. The role is hands-on, interactive, and offers autonomy.
Benefits & Compensation
- Company stock options
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- HSA
- FSA
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- Retirement plans
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
