RF Architect (Satellite Systems)

Location: Cary, NC (will consider Maryland)

Mode: Onsite

Travel: Yes

Number of openings: Multiple

Experience: Any person with these skills and clearance will be considered, the salary is commensurate with the overall experience. 2-3 years will be closed to $90k and 15+ will be closer to $190k

Education: Bachelor's degree

Salary Range: $90-190k -Negotiate best salary based on overall experience!

Start Date: Typically 3-4 weeks from submittal

Clearance: TS/SCI CI Full-scope Poly

Client Job Description:

RF Architect- Satellite Systems

THE WORK

The RF Architect is in an extremely customer facing role leading multi faceted mission critical

system development, deployment and evolution. The following are the primary functions of the position:

System Design and Architecture

Develop and define the overall system architecture for satellite communications,

including subsystems like payloads, ground stations, and user terminals.

Gather, analyze, and document system requirements, ensuring alignment with

stakeholder needs and regulatory standards.

Create detailed design specifications and architectural models, including system

interfaces, data flows, and performance metrics.

System Integration and Testing

Develop and oversee the integration strategy for combining hardware, software, and

network components into a cohesive system.

Plan and execute integration and testing activities, including system-level tests,

performance evaluations, and validation against requirements.

Work with integration team to document, track and resolve reoccurring issues and

system failures during testing and operational phases.

Software Development and Management

Oversee the development of software components, including real-time and embedded

software necessary for satellite communication.

Conduct trade off studies to identify and analyze the possibility of reuse of existing

software components to include the impact to schedule for additional integration or

middleware creation.

Manage software development processes, including the tracking and milestone

development for coding, debugging, and performance optimization activities

Project Management

Develop and manage project plans, including defining milestones, deliverables,

schedules, and resource allocation.

Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to address issues related to

system design, integration, and operation.

Monitor and control project resources, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently

within the team.

Stakeholder Coordination

Communicate effectively with stakeholders, including clients, government agencies, and

vendors, to ensure alignment with project goals and requirements.

Facilitate discussions and negotiations to resolve conflicts and ensure that stakeholder

needs are met.

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelors degree from an accredited college in a related discipline, or equivalent

experience/combined education, with 9 years of professional experience; or 7 years of

professional experience with a related Masters degree. Considered an emerging

authority.

Desired Skills:

Digital Satellite Communications Background: The engineer should have a solid

understanding of digital satellite communications, including digital modulation

techniques, error correction methods, and digital signal processing.

Strong RF Background to include cascade, system noise temperature, and G/T analysis:

The engineer should possess a strong RF background, including knowledge of cascade

analysis, system noise temperature calculations, and G/T analysis.

RF Test Equipment (Vector Signal Generator, Vector Signal Analyzer, Spectrum

Analyzer, etc.): The engineer should be proficient in using various RF test equipment to

enable the engineer to accurately measure, analyze, and optimize RF systems and

components.

Experience with Digitizers: The engineer should have hands-on experience with

digitizers, including understanding their operation, configuration, and integration with RF

systems.

Fundamentals of IP Networking: The engineer should have a solid understanding of

TCP/IP and multicast networking fundamentals, including network protocols,

architectures, and best practices as well as multicast us.

Knowledge of RF/Signal Network Routing Protocols and techniques: The engineer

should have a strong understanding of RF and signal network routing protocols.

Experience with MATLAB and Keysight's Vector Signal Analysis Software for processing

data: The engineer should be proficient in using MATLAB and Keysight's Vector Signal

Analysis software for processing and analyzing data. Familiarity with these tools will

allow the engineer to perform various data analysis tasks, such as signal processing,

statistical analysis, and algorithm development.

Knowledge of FORNSAT's architecture and RF distribution: The engineer should have a

solid understanding of FORNSAT architecture and RF distribution techniques.