Vehicle Communications Lead

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 180 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

As a Vehicle Communications Lead, you will own the end-to-end deployment of modular communication systems across Mach's vehicles. You'll lead radio and Sat Com integration efforts - from initial down selection through validation - ensuring every link, antenna, and network node performs reliably in real-world, contested environments.

Key Responsibilities

* Own the radio and Sat Com down selection process across Mach vehicle programs.

* Lead electrical, software, and mechanical integration of communications hardware into vehicle systems.

* Drive antenna selection, placement, and simulation to ensure optimal performance across air, land, and maritime domains.

* Develop and execute link budgets, range analyses, and RF testing for LOS and BLOS systems.

* Validate system reliability through rigorous environmental and functional testing - systems work 100/100 times. Engineer for EW and environmental resilience, including jamming mitigation, EMI/EMC compliance, and spectrum agility.

* Design and implement mesh and swarm networking across multi-vehicle architectures.

* Build and maintain manufacturing checkout and validation processes for communication subsystems.

* Collaborate closely with vehicle, systems, and software teams to deliver integrated, deployable solutions.

* Support field deployments, troubleshoot RF links, and continually improve performance in real-world operations.

Required Qualifications

* 5+ years of experience in RF or communication systems for aerospace, defense, or robotics platforms.

* Strong grasp of RF fundamentals: link budgets, propagation, modulation, and antenna theory.

* Hands-on experience integrating radios, Sat Com, and antennas into vehicle systems.

* Proficiency with RF test equipment (spectrum analyzer, VNA, SDR tools).

* Experience with EMI/EMC, jamming resilience, and environmental testing.

* Ability to design, deploy, and troubleshoot mesh or multi-node communication networks.

* Proven ability to lead cross-functional hardware/software/mechanical integration efforts.

* Able to support field deployments and debug RF links under operational conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience with SDRs (USRP, Silvus, Doodle Labs, Trellis Ware).

* EM simulation experience for antenna placement (HFSS, CST, FEKO).

* Background with MANET/mesh networking protocols.

* Experience building RF manufacturing test or calibration processes.

* Python or C++ experience for tooling or automation.

* Security clearance (current or previous).

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package.

Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.

If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!