Principal RF Payload Lead Engineer - Direct-to-Device Connectivity

Join Space Network as a Principal RF Payload Lead Engineer and play a critical role in shaping the future of direct-to-device connectivity.

About the Role

Our Client is seeking a Principal RF Payload Lead Engineer to drive the end-to-end architecture, design, development, and on-orbit performance of RF communications payloads for direct-to-device connectivity. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for the complete technical solution, from initial requirements and system architecture through hardware delivery, integration, test, and mission operations support. This is the foundational hire for a new group, offering a unique opportunity to define processes and build a team from the ground up.

About You

The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical leader with a proven track record of designing, building, testing, and successfully deploying RF systems to real users. You are driven by developing new, innovative RF/satellite communication products rather than maintaining or iterating on existing systems. You thrive as a senior individual contributor, focused on deep technical impact, and your RF experience is practical and extends beyond theoretical or simulation-only work.

What You'll Do

• Define and architect RF payloads, including phased-array antennas, RF front ends, frequency planning, and waveform selection aligned with cellular standards.
• Lead the design and analysis of phased-array systems, covering beamforming strategy, scan performance, EIRP and G/T optimization, coverage, and handover mechanisms.
• Oversee end-to-end link design, including link budgets, modulation and coding, Doppler compensation, interference analysis, and regulatory compliance.
• Direct integration and test activities, encompassing functional testing, RF performance verification, over-the-air testing, and environmental qualification.
• Collaborate extensively with cellular teams to ensure compatibility with 3GPP and NTN behavior over satellite links, working closely with RAN and core network groups.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with an emphasis in RF, communications, or electromagnetics.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in RF or communications systems engineering.
• Demonstrated experience developing new RF or satellite communications products for commercial markets, rather than adapting existing solutions.
• Proven ability to own the complete design cycle of RF or antenna systems, from specification and design through build, validation, and testing.
• Experience shipping RF products integrated into devices sold through partners, such as IoT modules, wearables, handsets, chipsets, or MNO programs.
• Expertise in phased-array or electronically steered antenna design, including beamforming, calibration, and over-the-air testing.
• Deep understanding of cellular standards (4G LTE, 5G NR, 3GPP NTN) as applied to satellite links.
• Proficiency with RF simulation tools, EM solvers, and phased-array technologies.
• Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. security clearance.

Work Arrangement

• Hybrid: 2 to 3 days per week at our Mountain View, CA office (2301 Leghorn St, Mountain View, CA 94043).

Employment Type

• Full-time position.

Salary

• $255,000 - $270,000 annually.