Space RF Payload SME

Active TS/SCI Clearance is needed for consideration to this role. Zachary Piper Solutions is currently seeking a Space RF Payload Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a mission‑critical customer program based in El Segundo, CA . This position is a full‑time, onsite role, working directly in customer facilities. As a Space RF Payload SME, you will play a pivotal role in advising and guiding the development of advanced spaceborne RF signal processing payloads, ground processing systems, and mission capabilities. You will work side‑by‑side with government stakeholders, providing technical leadership and oversight across the full payload lifecycle—from concept design to on‑orbit operations—in a high‑visibility, high‑impact national security environment. Key Responsibilities: Serve as the primary technical authority providing oversight across the development, build, verification, and deployment of space RF payloads. Provide government leadership and actionable recommendations, including course corrections to payload design and implementation. Lead requirements development and traceability, including evaluation of requirements flow‑down and compliance assessments. Conduct concept design evaluations and analysis of alternatives (AoA) to support mission decision‑making. Perform and assess: Critical Technology Elements (CTEs) Technology Readiness Assessments (TRAs) Manufacturing Readiness Assessments (MRAs) Develop and refine Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for payload systems. Provide technical oversight for: Payload integration onto spacecraft Integration & Test (I&T) processes Transition to operations, including training, checkout, and on‑orbit support Evaluate payload design updates, identifying impacts to performance, spacecraft interfaces, and mission objectives. Assess risk reduction strategies to mature payload designs and hardware readiness. Collaborate with prime contractors and subcontractors to ensure schedules, deliverables, and technical objectives are met. Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical field (Physics, Math, Aerospace), plus 14+ years of relevant experience, OR Master’s degree with 12+ years of experience. Extensive experience with: Spaceborne RF payloads Digital signal processing and signals analysis Mission data processing systems Strong ability to analyze complex technical challenges and deliver effective solutions. Working knowledge of: Orbital mechanics Environmental effects on RF payload performance Experience applying Systems Engineering principles to payload development, integration, and deployment. Excellent communication skills with both technical peers and senior customer leadership. Active TS/SCI clearance (T5 or SSBI), with eligibility for SCI and enrollment in Continuous Evaluation. Willingness to: Be nominated for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP) Undergo a polygraph examination Compensation to include: Salary Range: $200,000 – $240,000 (depending on experience) Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave if required by law This job opens for applications on 2/24/26. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date. #J-18808-Ljbffr Zachary Piper Solutions