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CesiumAstro is seeking a Senior Communications Test Engineer II to lead end-to-end integration and verification of communication functions for satellite, UAV, and launch vehicle communication payload products. This is a highly technical role combining deep domain expertise in communication systems with hands-on integration, test execution, and technical leadership.
You will own critical responsibilities across the communication payload lifecycle: architecting system integration and test strategies, leading requirement definitions, contributing to algorithm development, driving Special Test Equipment (STE) design, and owning verification and final sell-off. You will operate with high autonomy and provide technical leadership across integration and verification activities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading development of communication system and subsystem integration tests, validating space systems requirements and interfaces
- Collaborating with system engineering on requirements management, flow-down, and traceability
- Leading modem and data layer configuration selection and definition
- Owning lab and equipment strategy, including management, optimization, and guiding equipment purchase decisions
- Architecting and developing communication test systems; developing and implementing test plans and procedures
- Leading execution of verification/validation tests with completeness, quality, and traceability; presenting findings to stakeholders
- Verifying and evaluating system-level performance with design teams
- Independently debugging complex system-level issues and providing actionable feedback
- Designing and overseeing time-synchronized test setups using signal generators and spectrum analyzers
- Providing technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers; establishing best practices
- Driving continuous improvement in test methodologies, automation, and lab infrastructure
This is a fast-paced startup environment where you will take ownership of critical test systems for leading-edge satellite communication systems.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Master's degree (MS) or higher in Electrical Engineering or related discipline from an accredited institution, or equivalent experience
- Minimum 5–7 years relevant job experience
- Very strong background in communication theory
- Experience with and understanding of satellite-communications standards (NR NTN, DVB-S2x, CCSDS)
- Hands-on experience with lab instruments: digital oscilloscopes, multimeters, source measurement units, RF signal generators, spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers (VNAs), and vector signal analyzers
- Hands-on experience developing hardware and measurement abstraction layers and test automation setups using scripting and software development (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
- Good understanding of RF and mixed-signal hardware (amplifiers, filters, ADCs/DACs, antennas) and its impact on system performance and test design
- Proficiency in measurements and data analysis: S-parameters, AM/PM, compression, noise figure, harmonics/spurious emission, phase noise, switching speed, bit error rate, adjacent channel power, linearity, EVM, and group delay
- Hands-on experience designing test setups and working in anechoic chambers for antenna systems evaluation
- Proven experience designing and leading complex test setups and integration efforts
- Experience independently debugging complex system-level issues and driving resolution across teams
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Knowledge of satellite and wireless communication systems and protocols
- Experience in wireless synchronization and parameter sensing techniques
- Familiarity with phased array antenna architectures and array calibration
- Prior experience in technical leadership, mentorship, or leading small engineering teams
Note: Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, conditional resident, asylee, or refugee, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
