Job at a glance
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.