Communications Systems Engineer

Job Title

This job is with Encode Inc, a fully owned subsidiary of LanceSoft.

Pay Rate will be between $100 - $120/h on W2

Job Description

Designs, develops, analyzes, models, tests and simulates communications systems, subsystems, and electronic signals for communication networks, data links, digital radio, battle management, and command and control systems such as wide and local area networks, point-to-point systems, secure systems, signal coding and modulation schema, digital and wireless radio/communications technology and network architecture design.

The Integration & Test Engineer will work in a laboratory team environment to design, develop, and execute operational scripts and unit tests for use in wireless communications systems such as communication satellite payloads and associated ground terminals. The individual will identify key requirements, create test plans, and apply a strong programming and scripting skillset to implement system- and unit-level tests. The individual will be responsible for troubleshooting system issues by applying a working knowledge of system architecture, including software, firmware, and RF components, to identify root cause for system failures. They will also lead the hands-on diagnosis of issues which arise during the integration and testing process, and work closely with software, firmware and hardware teams to identify and remedy issues.

The engineer will support Lincoln technical staff in testing and maintaining test assets used in the development of satellite communications systems.

Required Skills

• The engineer should be able to apply programming skills to efficiently implement test procedures and troubleshoot system operation
• The engineer should be skilled in both system test planning and test execution.
• A strong background in and experience with Python and Bash
• Proficiency with the Linux operating system
• Experience with test equipment automation
• Demonstration of strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• The candidate must be willing to work in a team environment and learn new skills.

Preferred Skills

• C/C++ programming
• Recent experience debugging issues and resolving anomalies in a system test environment
• Open to using modern AI-assisted coding and testing tools to accelerate scripting and automation
• Familiarity with data analysis and plotting
• Embedded programming experience
• Fluent with Wireshark and TCP/IP basics
• Signal processing experience, including: MATLAB, DSP, digital communications, link budgets
• Experience with FPGA boards, including VHDL exposure
• DevOps experience, including CI/CD, GIT, automated build and test
• Experience with communication theory and communication system design
• Experience with end-to-end system integration, verification, and automated testing of RF communication links
• Understanding of link budget analysis and overall system architecture for wireless or satellite communications

The position will be predominantly onsite; the person should expect to be onsite 4-5 days/week. Some parts of the project lifecycle will require more onsite at times than others. Interim is sufficient for the start of the role. The interview process will be an initial pre-screen and then a wider group interview. Level of effort is full-time. This position will not materially impact the conduct or direction of a research program(s). Secret clearance is required.