Jobs · Engineering · Texas

Principal Satellite to Ground Integration Engineer

AST SpaceMobile · Dallas, TX · 2 wk ago
On-siteEngineeringFull-time

Position Overview

We are seeking a Principal Satellite to Ground Integration Engineer to support the integration, deployment, and lifecycle management of Q/V-band transmission systems in a satellite communications gateway environment. This role is responsible for owning the Q/V transmission subsystems — antennas, amplifiers, frequency conversion equipment, and indoor/outdoor RF infrastructure — including configuration baselines, acceptance and calibration processes, and system integration, to ensure operational readiness across multiple gateway deployments. The ideal candidate is a deep expert in Q/V-band transmission, RF integration, testing, and troubleshooting, and thrives in a cross-functional environment spanning engineering, operations, and product teams.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the subject matter expert for Q/V-band transmission systems, including antennas, amplifiers, frequency converters, and associated RF infrastructure throughout the system lifecycle.
  • Define, document, and maintain configuration baselines and approved hardware/software combinations for Q/V transmission systems deployed across multiple gateway environments.
  • Develop and maintain acceptance test procedures, performance validation methods, calibration processes, and pass/fail criteria to ensure system compliance and operational readiness.
  • Support the integration of Q/V transmission systems with network, monitoring, and operational support platforms.
  • Lead technical readiness activities for new gateway deployments, including test planning, execution, issue resolution, and operational acceptance.
  • Troubleshoot RF performance and system-level issues in laboratory and field environments, performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
  • Collaborate with hardware, software, network, and operations teams to ensure successful deployment and ongoing performance of gateway RF systems.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including system specifications, test procedures, calibration records, configuration baselines, and deployment reports.
  • Provide technical guidance and training to internal stakeholders and external partners on Q/V transmission system operation, testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on system reliability, scalability, and performance optimization.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, RF engineering, telecommunications engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience:

  • A minimum of 5 years of experience working with Q/V-band satellite transmission systems, including system design, RF integration, testing, deployment, or operational support.
  • Experience troubleshooting RF communications systems.
  • Experience supporting system-level integration activities.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Demonstrated expertise in Q/V-band transmission system design, operation, performance analysis, and optimization.
  • Strong understanding of satellite communications architectures and gateway RF infrastructure.
  • Knowledge of 4G and 5G wireless communication standards and satellite-terrestrial network integration concepts.
  • Experience developing technical specifications, operational procedures, test plans, and engineering documentation.
  • Hands-on experience with system-level testing, acceptance validation, calibration methodologies, and performance verification processes.
  • Experience integrating RF systems with network management, monitoring, or operational support platforms.
  • Familiarity with deployment readiness, field acceptance testing, and new system introduction activities.
  • Understanding of ground segment communications systems and related RF technologies.

Soft Skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build productive relationships across technical and non-technical teams.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional engineering, product, and operations organizations.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a methodical approach to troubleshooting.
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of technical documentation, test results, and project deliverables.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.

Technology Stack

  • Q/V-band satellite transmission systems.
  • Antenna systems, high-power amplifiers, frequency converters, and RF signal distribution equipment.
  • Indoor and outdoor RF communications infrastructure.
  • RF and optical conversion technologies.
  • Telemetry and system monitoring solutions.
  • Test and measurement equipment, including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, power meters, and network analyzers.
  • Technical documentation and configuration management tools.
  • Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration platforms.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in laboratory and technical testing environments utilizing RF test equipment and diagnostic tools.
  • Ability to travel periodically to support deployment, integration, testing, and operational activities.
  • Ability to safely handle and move technical equipment and hardware components when necessary.
  • Ability to capture, analyze, and document technical test procedures, results, and system performance data.

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