Senior Specialist, SATCOM Systems Engineer

Job Title: Senior Specialist, SATCOM Systems Engineer (Level 4)

Job Code: 36513

Job Location: Waco, Texas

Schedule: 9/80

Job Description:

As a SATCOM (Satellite Communications) Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, integrating, testing, and maintaining satellite communication systems and solutions. You’ll work closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop robust, secure, and scalable SATCOM networks for defense, aerospace, and commercial applications.

Essential Functions:

• Design, develop, and manage end-to-end SATCOM systems, including ground stations, modems, antennas, and RF subsystems.


• Define system architecture, requirements, and interface specifications.


• Develop link budgets, network diagrams, and system performance models.


• Integrate and configure SATCOM hardware and software components.


• Conduct system-level testing, troubleshooting, and optimization for coverage and reliability.


• Support proposal development, cost estimation, and technical solution presentations.


• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including design documents, procedures, and test plans.


• Collaborate with project managers, software developers, hardware engineers, and customers to achieve project objectives.


• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, regulations, and security requirements.


• Provide technical support and training to internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Experience with DoD or government SATCOM programs.


• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field (Master’s preferred).


• Bachelor’s Degree and minimum 6 years of prior relevant SATCOM experience or Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior related SATCOM experience.


• Knowledge of encryption, COMSEC/Cybersecurity practices in SATCOM.


• Strong understanding of RF theory, digital communication, network protocols, and signal processing.


• Proficiency in designing and analyzing link budgets and RF propagation models.


• Experience with SATCOM systems integration, network management, and troubleshooting.


• Familiarity with SATCOM equipment (modems, antennas, amplifiers, switches) and associated industry standards and familiarity with SATCOM waveform standards (e.g., DVB-S2, MIL-STD-188-165A).


• Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance. 

Preferred Additional Skills:

• Experience with external communication systems (SATCOM, LOS, Hybrid SATCOM).


• Experience with AESA antennas.


• Skilled in signals, systems, and telecommunications.


• Experience investigating datasheets, ICDs, and electrical drawings.


• Experience with wire harnesses.


• Experience with Networking; configuring routers/switches, basic CISCO commands.


• Familiar with ATPs/ATRs and test plans.