Sr. Communications Payload Architect

Mission on the Team

You will own the end-to-end payload architecture, design, procurement and test strategy for the Meridian satellite payload, including:

• Optimizing the analog communications payload design across performance, cost, reliability, flexibility, and feasibility, leveraging Meridian's unique IP and satcom constellation approach
• Identifying and partnering with vendors and technology providers to deliver the best overall payload architecture
• Translating constellation level requirements into payload requirements, interfaces and verification plans
• Tracking all payload applications and ensuring the design meets requirements across each use case
• Running trade studies on alternative payload configurations to identify the optimal fit for the Meridian constellation
• Planning, forecasting, and managing R&D efforts for communications payload subsystems
• Developing and overseeing the payload level qualification and end to end test plan
• Ensuring procured payload units and subsystems meet Meridian’s performance, cost, schedule and qualification requirements
• Working closely with spacecraft, ground, systems and operations teams to validate the full end to end payload system

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Communications Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years professional experience in communications payload, antenna, or RF systems design and development
• Strong understanding of analog RF/communications systems and antennas, including amplifiers, filters, frequency conversion, antenna design, and link budget analysis
• Experience leading payload trade studies across performance, cost, reliability, and manufacturability
• Skill in using and creating software tools to model communications and antenna systems performance (MATLAB, Python, ADS, HFSS, STK, etc.)
• Ability to work autonomously and exercise sound engineering judgement
• Strong interpersonal, verbal communication, and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years professional experience in satellite communications payload and antenna design and development
• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field
• Experience designing low-cost payloads and antennas intended for high production volumes
• Experience developing and executing payload-level mission qualification plans
• Familiarity with broadband satcom architectures, including LEO/MEO constellation tradeoffs, antenna architectures (phased array, reflector, etc.), and frequency planning
• Breadth of understanding of other spacecraft subsystems and general knowledge of satellite operations