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CesiumAstro develops advanced communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and aerospace platforms. We are seeking a Principal Communications System Test Engineer to lead verification and validation efforts for our phased-array communication systems.
In this role, you will serve as the technical point of contact for communication programs, leading system integration and test activities across components, subsystems, payloads, and end-to-end communication links. You will develop comprehensive verification and validation plans, translating system requirements and mission concepts into testable acceptance criteria and test cases while maintaining full traceability.
Key responsibilities include:
• Lead communication system integration and test, defining and executing test strategies across all levels from components through end-to-end links with ground systems
• Develop verification and validation plans with testable acceptance criteria, test cases, and operational scenarios
• Own hands-on system bring-up and troubleshooting, integrating RF hardware, antennas, digital processing, FPGA firmware, software, modems, and data interfaces
• Develop automated test capabilities including test scripts, procedures, and data-analysis tools for characterization, regression, qualification, and acceptance testing
• Characterize RF and communication-link performance, measuring transmit power, receiver sensitivity, gain, noise figure, linearity, modulation quality, spectral performance, and error rates
• Verify phased-array performance through conducted and over-the-air tests evaluating beam steering, pointing accuracy, radiation patterns, and performance across frequency and scan angles
• Validate modem and data-layer operation under nominal, degraded, and boundary conditions
• Develop representative test environments including laboratory benches, hardware-in-the-loop setups, and channel-emulation capabilities
• Lead failure analysis and corrective-action verification, investigating anomalies and verifying fixes through targeted testing
• Support environmental qualification and acceptance testing in coordination with environmental and EMC teams
• Lead test readiness and results reviews, establishing entry/exit criteria and producing technical reports supporting system acceptance
• Drive testability improvements and program execution by working with design teams and vendors
You will work in a dynamic, cross-functional startup environment with hands-on, autonomous work and the opportunity to shape leading-edge space communication technology.
REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering
• 11+ years of experience in space communications with substantial hands-on experience in communication system integration, testing, verification, and validation
• Very strong background in communication theory with ability to connect measured system behavior to modulation, coding, synchronization, channel effects, and link performance
• Deep understanding of RF concepts, impairments, and their effects on communication performance; demonstrated experience characterizing and troubleshooting RF signal chains
• Hands-on experience with RF and digital test equipment (spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers, power meters, oscilloscopes, communication test sets); understanding of calibration, measurement uncertainty, and test repeatability
• Experience developing test plans, procedures, acceptance criteria, verification matrices, and technical reports including requirements management and traceability
• Experience with at least one scripting language and one programming language (ideally Python and C++) for test automation, equipment control, data collection, and analysis
• Practical experience integrating, testing, and debugging FPGA-based systems and modern vector processing engines
• Experience with satellite communication standards including NR NTN, DVB-S2X, and CCSDS; ability to translate requirements into test cases and verification evidence
• Experience working with classified communication systems and red/black architectures; experience with optical communication systems preferred
• Ability to hold a security clearance
• Excellent written and verbal technical communication skills
• Ability to define work direction, track milestones, and demonstrate progress on large open-ended projects
• Sense of urgency and ability to work well under pressure
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
