Lead Systems Architect, Avionics & Satellite Communications

Viasat; Greater London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat is seeking a Principal Systems Architect to lead the evolution of SwiftBroadband Safety infrastructure and Advanced Air Mobility services. You will shape next-generation aviation connectivity with secure, scalable satellite solutions, working with UAV manufacturers, avionics suppliers and air-traffic partners.

The role involves developing concepts, architectures, integration plans, and hands-on support for field deployments, with close collaboration across the Solutions Engineering team

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent experience in Electrical or Electronic Engineering.
• Technically proficient in telecommunications technologies, an understanding of IP-based mobile networking technologies and satellite systems
• Strong analytical capability, able to conduct system engineering and technology trade-offs
• Strong interpersonal skills including the ability to establish and maintain relationships and trust
• Advanced knowledge of satellite communications systems, including RF fundamentals, link budgets, modem/waveform concepts, and L-band / Ku / Ka-band / NTN architectures.
• Hands-on experience supporting system integration, deployment, or field operations

Responsibilities

• Compile system design requirements for next generation developments.
• Produce system concepts, candidate architectures and conduct trade-off studies.
• Develop and present integrated satcom solutions tailored to UAV and AAM operational requirements, and aviation safety requirements
• Lead and support integration of satcom systems onto UAV, AAM and AOS platforms
• Collaborate with hardware partners and terminal providers (e.g., low-SWaP UAV satcom systems) to ensure interoperability and performance
• Provide hands‑on technical support for installation, configuration, and system optimization, and act as technical link between the various partners
• Develop integration documentation, CONOPS, and validation approaches
• Plan and execute flight demonstrations, trials, and proof‑of‑concept activities and provide real‑time troubleshooting and technical leadership during field deployments
• Create detailed design specifications for use in competitive procurements for evolution of Viasat’s infrastructure.
• Manage suppliers for implementation, verification, and change management safety infrastructure.
• Define/refine the operational model in planning for service introduction readiness, initial operations (eg customer Beta testing), and in‑life service management metrics (KPIs) needed to demonstrate compliance with performance standards.
• Work with others within the Engineering and Operations teams to achieve above.

Skills

System engineering

RF fundamentals

Satellite communications

IP networking

Stakeholder relations

Trade-off analysis

Education

Electrical or Electronic Eng

Job description

Viasat is seeking a Principal Systems Architect to lead the evolution of SwiftBroadband Safety infrastructure and Advanced Air Mobility services. You will shape next-generation aviation connectivity with secure, scalable satellite solutions, working with UAV manufacturers, avionics suppliers and air-traffic partners.

The role involves developing concepts, architectures, integration plans, and hands-on support for field deployments, with close collaboration across the Solutions Engineering team