SATCOM​/RAN Architect; TS​/SCI - Hybrid Security Clearance

Position: SATCOM/RAN Architect (TS/SCI - Hybrid) with Security Clearance
Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Principal SATCOM/RAN Architect to lead the design and integration of next-generation tactical communications systems. This role focuses on architecting hybrid networks that seamlessly bridge space-based assets with terrestrial tactical networks such as wireless mesh radios and 5G infrastructure to support defense operations in contested environments. The ideal candidate is a subject matter expert in military SATCOM, cellular RAN technologies, and tactical waveforms, serving as the technical authority for developing resilient, secure, and high-performance communication solutions for defense customers.

Location:

Position is currently in Lanham, MD but will move to Tysons, VA (4 days onsite with 1 day remote w/ flexibility)

Key Responsibilities:

• Architect end-to-end tactical communications systems integrating satellite backhaul (e.g., MUOS) with terrestrial wireless networks including 5G RAN and ad-hoc mesh radios
• Lead technical design and optimization of waveforms, protocols, and network architectures for secure, low-latency communications in challenging operational environments
• Serve as the technical authority in customer-facing engagements, presenting system architectures, conducting trade studies, and translating mission requirements into technical solutions
• Provide technical leadership to internal and external engineering teams, reviewing designs, algorithms, and hardware/software integration plans
• Conduct system-level analysis including link budgets, RF propagation modeling, interference mitigation, and performance assessments for hybrid space-ground networks
• Drive adoption of Open RAN principles and open architecture standards to ensure interoperability and flexibility
• Contribute to RFI/RFP responses, proposal development, and strategic planning for new defense communications initiatives

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in tactical communications engineering or systems architecture
• Proven senior-level experience in the defense RF/SATCOM industry
• Deep expertise in military SATCOM systems and waveforms (e.g., MUOS, WGS)
• Strong background in cellular and wireless technologies including 5G architecture, Radio Access Networks (RAN), and mesh networking (e.g., MANET)
• Experience with Open RAN standards (e.g., O-RAN 7.2x split) and software-defined radio (SDR) principles

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant field
• Active US Security Clearance (TS/SCI) highly preferred

Soft Skills:

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of documentation and deliverables
• Ability to lead technical discussions and brief senior stakeholders Technology Stack:
• Satellite communications systems (MUOS, WGS)
• 5G RAN technologies and Open RAN standards (O-RAN 7.2x)
• Software-defined radio (SDR) platforms
• RF modeling and simulation tools
• Network protocol analyzers and waveform design tools
• MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for system analysis
• Secure communications protocols and encryption standards Compensation:
• Salary: $180,000 - $200,000 (based on experience and education)
• Benefits:
Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), 20 days paid time off, 11 federal holidays, and sick leave