Senior Communication Systems Test Engineer

About the role

The Communication Systems Engineering Department (CSED) within the Mission Payloads Division (MPD) specializes in the research, development, testing, and evaluation of RF and satellite communication systems for national security space programs. We collaborate closely with the U.S. Government, defense contractors, and other FFRDCs to deliver impartial, technically rigorous physical-layer expertise.

Responsibilities

• Lead small engineering teams or independently execute projects involving: Physical layer modeling & simulation, Communication waveform design and performance analysis of advanced coding and modulation techniques, Digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm development, Communication system architecture and tradeoff analysis, Communication link performance analysis in the presence of noise, fading, and interference, Evaluation of programs of record and future programs in various technical areas including satellite communications, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic warfare (EW).
• Hardware prototyping and testing in the laboratory and in the field.
• Translate vague concepts into practical, well-defined, and methodical technical plans.
• Communicate technical results clearly in written reports and presentations.
• Anticipate customers' needs and identify opportunities for new business.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics or related applicable technical discipline.
• Six or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Industry experience with RF satellite communication systems (hardware and software, systems engineering, RF system design requirements development, integration and test, system development, or related field).
• Knowledge of advanced communication systems and digital signal processing concepts (e.g., modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects, and link performance).
• Experience with laboratory test equipment (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, network analyzers) and software defined radios.
• MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++ programming experience.
• The ability to obtain a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government (U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance).

Qualifications

• Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics or related applicable technical discipline. Six or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility. Industry experience with RF satellite communication systems (hardware and software, systems engineering, RF system design requirements development, integration and test, system development, or related field). Knowledge of advanced communication systems and digital signal processing concepts (e.g., modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects, and link performance). Experience with laboratory test equipment (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, network analyzers) and software defined radios. MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++ programming experience. The ability to obtain a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government (U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance).
• Senior Engineering Specialist Requirements: Ten or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility (vs. six years for Engineering Specialist). Proven track record technical leadership.

Skills

Knowledge of US government programs in the areas of protected communications, navigation, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and/or electronic warfare (EW). Experience with modeling and simulation of anti-jam waveforms, spread spectrum, beamforming, array processing, interference mitigation, and geolocation techniques. Familiarity with machine learning theory, practices, and tools. Active TS/SCI clearance or SAP access.

Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max) $129,000.00 - $249,600.00 Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change Engage with Impact Foster Innovation Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include: 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 We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation. Equal Opportunity Commitment The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.