Principal Space Engineer

What You'll Do

The Principal Space Engineer will be expected to lead various satellite communication RF engineering activities including designing and sustaining end-to-end satellite systems at all frequency bands using various space and ground segment technologies to provide fixed and mobile satellite communication services. Requires fluency and expertise in geosynchronous (GEO) and non-geosynchronous (MEO and LEO) satellite communications, as well as with Hub/Remote antennas, digital modem systems, and platforms that utilize satellite bandwidth.

• Analyze and optimize satellite link performance (RF link budget analysis) based on given requirements, earth station criteria, and satellite performance
• Lead and develop technical responses to Requests For Proposals (RFPs) providing the technical/engineering solutions supported by clear written descriptions of the proposed solutions
• Lead and/or support the development of integrated satellite solutions, whether for ongoing maintenance of existing services, or development of new services as part of the proposal development process.
• Responsible for in-depth understanding of technical information defined in COMSATCOM Service Requirements (CSSR) and Performance Work Statements (PWS)
• Assist Business Development (BD), Program Management (PMO), and Account Executives in the interpretation and definition of requirements while providing sales/program engineering support
• Develop statement of work (SOW) for equipment integrators and service providers
• Specify equipment, and services as per design solutions and requirements
• Lead design, integration, optimization, and sustainment of secure managed satellite communication platforms utilizing iDirect Evolution and iDirect Velocity architectures supporting fixed, transportable, and mobility users
• Develop and maintain technical expertise in iDirect Evolution and Velocity waveform technologies including DVB-S2/S2X, TDMA (including MF-TDMA & ATDMA), SCPC, Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM), QoS, CIR/MIR traffic engineering, and dynamic bandwidth allocation
• Lead technical architecture development for secure government mobility solutions supporting land mobile, maritime, and aeronautical applications utilizing electronically steered antennas (ESA), COTM, and multi-orbit capable terminals
• Provide technical support to engineering and operations teams to resolve circuit problems/issues as the final tier of escalation
• Represent SES SD Engineering team in meetings related to asset management, interference issues, and infrastructure planning in addition to supporting Spectrum Management with spectrum coordination that might impact SES SD customers
• Support Product Development team with technical design and analysis for development of new product initiatives, either internal or through partners
• Maintain up-to-date working knowledge of SES satellite fleet as well as third-party operators which support solutions and leverage either as partners, vendors or as a competitive threat
• Evaluate existing infrastructure and customer solutions for upgrades/improvements
• Attend customer meetings and conferences as necessary
• Work with satellite operators to maintain current knowledge of their capabilities and offerings
• Have knowledge of and experience with state-of-the art industry products for ground segment equipment and terrestrial networking infrastructure
• Perform requirements definition inclusive of solicitation review and Q&A, design, equipment specification, pricing, and documentation in collaboration with the Program Management Office (PMO) and in-house technical teams
• Have knowledge and design experience with various waveforms involving VSAT signaling and access technologies including SCPC and TDMA/hybrid solutions
• Support, communicate, reinforce, and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization

• Prior experience in US Military, NATO or Federal Government Contracts
• 10-15 years’ plus experience with Satellite Network Design, and Satellite Communications Systems including turn‑key designs
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, or related technical field at a minimum
• Expert level technical expertise required
• Ability to effectively write, communicate and develop technical white papers, presentations, etc.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Department of Defense (DoD) Secret or higher‑level security clearance
• Extensive knowledge of satellite link budgets
• U.S. Citizenship required

SES Space and Defense is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.