Systems Engineer

Job Description

This role serves as the technical lead for development programs focused on RF and SATCOM systems integration, with a particular emphasis on integrating components and subsystems into existing SATCOM terminals, modems, and RF ground architectures across C, X, Ku, and Ka frequency bands. The engineer bridges systems-level architecture with day-to-day engineering execution by generating systems engineering artifacts, coordinating work breakdown structures with the Program Manager, and directing a cross-functional development team.

The position reports into a technology organization and involves close collaboration with customers, test engineers, embedded software, DSP, and FPGA teams to design, characterize, verify, and deliver innovative SATCOM solutions for tactical, naval, and strategic border protection applications.

• Serve as the technical lead for a cross-functional development team, providing daily technical direction and assigning engineering tasks on a daily and weekly basis.
• Collaborate with the Program Manager to define the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), develop schedules, and allocate resources to meet program milestones.
• Author and maintain systems engineering documentation throughout the program lifecycle, including system requirements documents, design documents, block diagrams, RF link cascades, and hardware and software Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
• Lead systems-level architecture and integration efforts for internally developed components that integrate with or enhance existing SATCOM terminals, modems, and RF ground architectures.
• Support the design, integration, and testing of SATCOM solutions into Department of Defense SATCOM systems operating in C, X, Ku, and Ka bands, ensuring compliance with relevant military standards for SATCOM terminals and modems.
• Apply knowledge of military standards governing SATCOM terminals and modems to guide system design, compliance verification, and configuration activities.
• Assist test engineers in developing comprehensive Test Plans and Test Procedures for SATCOM systems, ensuring adequate coverage of functional and performance requirements.
• Support test engineers in creating automated test scripts using Python for test automation, scripting, and data analysis.
• Collaborate closely with DSP and FPGA engineers on signal processing aspects of SATCOM, including waveform processing and implementation considerations.
• Use a basic understanding of FPGAs and signal processing concepts to contribute to SATCOM waveform processing design and integration.
• Perform system-level analysis of SATCOM architectures and configurations and produce clear technical documentation of findings and recommendations.
• Support system integration activities in both laboratory and field environments, including setup, troubleshooting, and optimization of SATCOM systems.
• Lead and participate in design reviews, technical exchanges, system demonstrations, and customer meetings, representing the technical status and direction of the program.
• Coordinate with embedded software, RF, and hardware teams to ensure that all components and subsystems are properly designed, characterized, and verified prior to delivery.
• Ensure that SATCOM systems and integrated components meet performance, reliability, and interoperability requirements defined by program stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of experience working with Department of Defense SATCOM systems in a design, integration, or systems engineering capacity.
• Demonstrated experience serving as a technical lead or systems lead on a multi-disciplinary engineering team, including task assignment and cross-functional coordination.
• Experience collaborating with a Program Manager on Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) development, scheduling, and milestone tracking.
• Proficiency in producing systems engineering documentation, including requirements documents, design documents, block diagrams, RF cascade analyses, and hardware/software Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
• Working knowledge of military standards for SATCOM terminals and SATCOM modems, including familiarity with relevant DoD SATCOM specifications.
• Hands‑on experience with SATCOM modems such as iDirect, Comtech, and/or Via Sat.
• Strong understanding of C, X, Ku, and Ka band satellite systems, including link characteristics and operational differences across these frequency bands.
• Basic understanding of FPGAs and signal processing concepts as they apply to SATCOM waveform processing.
• Experience supporting test engineers with the development of Test Plans and Test Procedures for SATCOM or RF systems.
• Basic understanding of Python for test automation, scripting, and data analysis.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, interface specifications, and system diagrams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear technical…