Principal Space Engineer

Who We Are:

At SES Space & Defense, we are a trusted partner ensuring mission success for customers operating in the most demanding environments. As part of SES S.A., a global leader in satellite-enabled connectivity, we deliver multi-orbit, end-to-end satellite and technology solutions that provide secure, reliable, and high-bandwidth communications across the globe.

Our differentiated multi-orbit architecture combines GEO and MEO satellite systems with integrated terrestrial and network infrastructure to deliver resilient, low-latency, high-throughput connectivity at a global scale. With more than 120 satellites covering nearly the entire world, a global ground network, and thousands of deployed terminals supporting over 5,000 government missions annually, SES Space and Defense is a trusted partner to the U.S. Federal Government and national security community, allied governments, NATO, and agencies including NASA for mission-critical communications.

We strive to be the only solution when success is critical and recognize our people as our competitive advantage. At SES Space & Defense, you'll work alongside a mission-driven team committed to integrity, honor, and accountability, delivering real-world impact across today's most critical missions.

What You'll Do:

The Principal Space Engineer will be expected to lead various satellite communication RF engineering activities including designing and sustaining end-to-end satellite systems at all frequency bands using various space and ground segment technologies to provide fixed and mobile satellite communication services. Requires fluency and expertise in geosynchronous (GEO) and non-geosynchronous (MEO and LEO) satellite communications, as well as with Hub/Remote antennas, digital modem systems, and platforms that utilize satellite bandwidth.

Duties and Responsibilities

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  • Analyze and optimize satellite link performance (RF link budget analysis) based on given requirements, earth station criteria, and satellite performance
  • Leads and develops technical responses to Requests For Proposals (RFPs) providing the technical/engineering solutions supported by clear written descriptions of the proposed solutions
  • Leads and/or supports in the development of integrated satellite solutions, whether for ongoing maintenance of existing services, or development of new services as part of the proposal development process.
  • Responsible for in-depth understanding of technical information defined in COMSATCOM Service Requirements (CSSR) and Performance Work Statements (PWS)
  • Assists Business Development (BD), Program Management (PMO) and Account Executives in the interpretation and definition of requirements while providing sales/program engineering support
  • Develops Statement of Work (SOW) for equipment integrators and service providers
  • Specifies equipment, and services as per design solutions and requirements
  • Lead the design, integration, optimization, and sustainment of secure managed satellite communication platforms utilizing iDirect Evolution and iDirect Velocity architectures supporting fixed, transportable, and mobility users
  • Develop and maintain technical expertise in iDirect Evolution and Velocity waveform technologies including DVB-S2/S2X, TDMA (including MF-TDMA & ATDMA), SCPC, Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM), QoS, CIR/MIR traffic engineering, and dynamic bandwidth allocation
  • Lead technical architecture development for secure government mobility solutions supporting land mobile, maritime, and aeronautical applications utilizing electronically steered antennas (ESA), COTM, and multi-orbit capable terminals
  • Provides technical support to engineering and operations teams to resolve circuit problems/issues as the final tier of escalation
  • Represents SES SD Engineering team in meetings related to asset management, interference issues, and infrastructure planning in addition to supporting Spectrum Management with spectrum coordination that might impact SES SD customers
  • Supports Product Development team with technical design and analysis for development of new product initiatives, either internal or through partners
  • Maintains up to date working knowledge of SES satellite fleet as well as third-party operators which support solutions and leverage either as partners, vendors or as a competitive threat
  • Evaluates existing infrastructure and customer solutions for upgrades/improvements
  • Attends customer meetings and conferences as necessary
  • Work with satellite operators to maintain a current knowledge of their capabilities and offerings
  • Knowledge of and experience with state-of-the art industry products for ground segment equipment and terrestrial networking infrastructure
  • Perform requirements definition inclusive of solicitation review and Q&A, design, equipment specification, pricing, and documentation in collaboration with the Program Management Office (PMO) and in-house technical teams
  • Knowledge and design experience with various waveforms involving VSAT signaling and access technologies including SCPC and TDMA/hybrid solutions.
  • Support, communicate, reinforce, and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization.
  
  
  
  

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  • Prior experience in US Military, NATO or Federal Government Contracts
  • 10-15 years' plus experience with Satellite Network Design, and Satellite Communications Systems including turn-key designs
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, or related technical field at a minimum
  • Expert level technical expertise required
  • Ability to effectively write, communicate and develop technical white papers, presentations, etc.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Department of Defense (DoD) Secret or higher- level security clearance.
  • Extensive knowledge of satellite link budgets
  • U.S. Citizenship required
  
  
  
  

SES Space and Defense is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.