RF & Communication Mission System Engineer

We are seeking an RF & Communication Mission System Engineer to support the VIPER lunar rover program at Johnson Space Center. This is a full-time onsite role Monday through Friday, with potential for hybrid/remote flexibility after an initial onsite period. Active (Secret or Top Secret clearance preferred; clearable US citizens will be considered. About the Role: You will begin by getting familiar with the VIPER rover onboard communication system and understanding all parameters for establishing and maintaining reliable communications throughout the mission. Communication to/from the rover is Direct-to-Earth utilizing a low gain omnidirectional antenna or a high gain phased array antenna through the Deep Space Network (DSN). You will support a major RF Compatibility Test performed at JSC using a JPL-provided RF Compatibility Test Trailer, connecting the vehicle to the NASA-Ames Mission Operations Center. Additional responsibilities include crypto key loading and determining the impact of low-angle multipath propagation on lunar surface communication and necessary mitigation strategies. Responsibilities Develop and execute test procedures; sit test console for testbed and vehicle testing Develop operations procedures and products for sitting operations console Support troubleshooting and anomaly investigations Evolve from test team to operations team supporting the full mission Periodically travel to Florida to support post-delivery vehicle checkout and integrated Lander/VIPER checkouts Advise Draper and NASA Programs and Engineering leadership toward successful mission execution Requirements BSEE required 7+ years of RF/communication systems engineering experience Strong understanding of end-to-end communication systems Experience with test and operations console Deep Space Network (DSN) familiarity a plus Maturity and sound judgment to interface with program and engineering leadership #J-18808-Ljbffr Softworld, a Kelly Company