Overview In this role you shape the Direct-to-Device phased array payload architecture for a next gen satellite system, collaborating across hardware, systems, antenna, and regulatory teams. You translate service needs into payload requirements and drive architecture trade studies that meet space constraints. You will work hands-on in the lab, validating designs and supporting on orbit operations, with a clear focus on enabling cellular connectivity from space to unmodified smartphones. This position offers impact across current and future generations of satellites, at a scale that reshapes global connectivity.
Compensation / Benefits- Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- RSUs and sign-on incentives
- 401(k) with match
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Employee assistance programs
Responsibilities- Translate service and coverage requirements into D2D payload requirements considering thermal, power, mechanical, reliability, and mass constraints
- Own and define the D2D phased array architecture from antenna element through RF front-end to digital beamforming backend and modem interface
- Collaborate with systems, HW design, antenna, silicon, and calibration teams to realize the architecture
- Contribute to customer link performance by working with systems and customer terminal teams to meet end to end link requirements
- Define phased array requirements flowing from system to subsystem specifications
- Develop test plans with the verification team to validate requirements
- Define signal integrity requirements for high-speed interconnects considering SerDes technology
- Support RF front-end and DPD/CFR architecture trade studies across multiple semiconductor processes
- Translate 5G NR and NTN standards into phased array requirements in collaboration with regulatory teams
- Evaluate emerging technologies to inform the architecture roadmap for future satellites
- Support production and on orbit debug; be hands-on and on call
Key requirements- Master in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent)
- Experience in wireless system design and architecture, system integration, RF system analysis
- Experience in developing link and system-level simulators (MATLAB, Python, or C++)
- Experience with RF measurement equipment (power meters, spectrum analyzers, vector signal generators, network analyzers, oscilloscopes)
- 7+ years designing 3GPP-based wireless systems (terrestrial or satellite)
- Experience in phased array design principles (beamforming, beam steering, antenna system integration)
- Experience with multiple engineering disciplines and cross-functional collaboration
- Experience with 5G NR or non-terrestrial network (NTN) communications standards
- Experience with transmit chain linearization techniques such as DPD or CFR
- Familiarity with calibration, synchronization, and over-the-air test methodologies
- Export Control compliance awareness (U.S. citizenship or eligible status)
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Hands-on problem solving
- Strong communication and coordination across multiple teams
- Phased array design, beamforming, beam steering
- RF front-end design across multiple semiconductor processes
- Digital beamforming backends
