Satellite Communications SME

Are you ready to shape the future of space-based defense systems? Join MTSI's team at the Space Development Agency's (SDA) as an RF Engineering SME where you will play an essential role in defining the future of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). Be part of a team working to address complex integration challenges while advancing innovative solutions that shape critical space-based capabilities.

As an RF Engineering SME at the SDA, you will serve as a senior engineer responsible for providing technical leadership and oversight for advanced tactical satellite communication systems that support mission-critical requirements. The position involves expertise in developing and integrating advanced satellite communication waveforms, data links, and payload systems. You will conduct technical trade studies, manage payload testing, verify requirements, and collaborate closely with stakeholders to ensure system performance aligns with program needs and organizational goals. This position will be located at our customer site in Chantilly, Virginia with the potential for regular teleworking.

Role and Responsibilities*

Your essential job functions will include but may not be limited to:

• Strategic Guidance and Subject Matter Expertise
• Serve as the primary technical authority on advanced satellite RF communications systems and technologies.
• Provide technical oversight and drive advancements in complex satellite communications systems to meet program objectives.
• Deliver expert-level analysis, advice, and problem-solving solutions for both existing and future satellite communications programs.
• Conduct technical trade studies to evaluate design options and recommend optimal solutions that address program requirements and mission goals.
• Develop and refine system requirements, specifications, and architectures to support evolving satellite communication capabilities and mission objectives.
• Apply specialized knowledge of data links for weapon systems, including design, analysis, and operational integration.
• Lead technical efforts for the verification and validation of satellite communication system requirements, ensuring performance and compliance.
• Lead RF engineering activities such as analysis, design, development, and testing of advanced waveforms to enhance system reliability and functionality.
• Provide subject matter expertise in advanced waveform standards and their operational implementation across satellite systems.
• Monitor and assess emerging technologies, trends, and best practices to identify opportunities for enhancing program capabilities.
• Demonstrate familiarity with communication theory, link budgets, hardware, and software architectures that comprise advanced communication systems.

• Program Integration
• Collaborate with government leadership, program managers, engineers, and stakeholders to ensure that satellite communication systems meet programmatic requirements and operational objectives.
• Attend and actively participate in design reviews, offering expert-level recommendations to support government customers in decision-making processes.
• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with internal teams, external partners, and stakeholders across multiple organizational levels.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and trusted advisor, using tact and diplomacy to address customer needs and foster effective communication while maintaining program alignment.
• Conduct technical and programmatic risk assessments to identify challenges with satellite payloads and proactively provide recommendations for improvements and innovations.
• Support programmatic success by effectively stratifying limited resources across approved programs and prioritizing technical needs
• Develop, manage, and monitor budgets to ensure compliance with financial constraints while meeting schedules and program deliverables.

Qualifications and Education Requirements*

• Minimum of 10 years of senior-level RF system engineer experience with a deep understanding of advanced waveforms within the Department of War.
• Extensive experience analyzing system designs and providing detailed design recommendations
• Strong knowledge of end-to-end verification processes and testing methodologies.
• Proven ability to manage risks and drive technological advancements.
• Excellent communications skills to represent the PWSA in external working groups and to interface with senior leadership.

Preferred/Desired Experience:

• Experience working in large (CAT-I) Department of War program offices.
• Experience defining system-level requirements and validation processes.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science disciplines, or related field. (REQUIRED)
• Master's degree in Engineering, or Science disciplines Science, or related field. (DESIRED)

Certification Requirements:

• None

Clearance Requirements:

This role will require the person to obtain and maintain a Top Secret and Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (SCI) security clearance.

• Active Secret Clearance is required to start
• Active Top Secret Clearance (Desired)
• TS/SCI Eligibility (Desired)
• U.S. Citizenship is required for this position.

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