Sr Communication Paylaod Architect
Posted Updated
Description
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
A client is looking for a Senior Communications Payload Architect with 7-15 years of experience to lead the end-to-end architecture of a next-generation broadband satellite payload. This is a strategic individual contributor role with ownership over payload design, technology roadmap, and system optimization, working closely with leadership, engineering teams, and external partners. It's a unique opportunity to help shape a new broadband SATCOM constellation from the ground up using innovative payload and antenna technology. This is a full-time on-site position in Long Beach, CA.
JOB RESPONSIBILTIES
- Owning the system-level payload architecture — link budgets, power budgets, and forecasting where performance improvements can be achieved as technologies mature.
- Managing the full landscape of existing and potential vendors for payload equipment, directing them to develop new RF components for high-volume manufacturing.
- Leading the R&D program for the payload, forecasting technology readiness against customer delivery timelines so the team can confidently commit to performance levels.
- Identifying bottlenecks across the RF chain (transponders, amplifiers, filters, frequency conversion) and prioritizing engineering effort to resolve cascading performance risks.
- Defining qualification test programs, requirements, and milestones to build confidence in the technology ahead of constellation manufacturing.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
- 7 - 15 years of experience in satellite communications payload design and RF systems architecture.
- Owned or architected a broadband satellite comms payload end-to-end.
- BS in Electrical, RF, or Communications Engineering.
- End-to-end analog RF signal chain expertise (amplifiers, filters, frequency conversion, link budgets).
- Drives architecture decisions autonomously across technical and business stakeholders.
NICE TO HAVE SKILLS
- MS in Electrical/RF Engineering.
- Managed R&D roadmap and vendor selection for payload subsystems.
- Experience at Starlink, Astranis, or similar LEO/MEO constellation company.
- Python modeling/simulation for comms system performance.
- LEO broadband constellation architecture and antenna tradeoffs.
JOB BENEFITS
- Highly competitive salary.
- Generous equity participation.
- The opportunity to help build a business from the ground.
RIGHT TO REPRESENT
By applying to this position, you acknowledge and agree to be represented by LYA Collective for this opportunity.