Communication Systems Engineer

IIT Bombay; Mumbai; On-site; INR 800,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

IIT Bombay invites applications for a Communication Systems Engineer to design and implement advanced UAV communication architectures. The role focuses on end-to-end UAV data exchange across aerial and ground infrastructure, combining hardware and software expertise to deliver reliable, low-latency performance.

The ideal candidate will have strong RF knowledge, SATCOM familiarity, and hands-on testing experience with instrumentations like spectrum analyzers and VNA.

Qualifications

• PhD or master's with relevant project experience in UAV communications.
• Deep knowledge of wired and wireless protocols and RF systems.
• Experience with SATCOM architectures and link budgeting.
• Familiarity with RF design/analysis tools and RF testing practices.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop robust UAV communication architectures.
• Optimize MAC protocols for multi-node wireless networks.
• Select components and evaluation boards for prototyping.
• Use simulations to validate system behavior under real-world conditions.
• Analyze and improve link throughput, latency and robustness; ensure safety standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and document results.

Skills

Wired/wireless protocols

RF fundamentals

Link budget calculation

Antenna theory

RF measurement & testing

EMI/EMC considerations

SATCOM knowledge

UAV communication systems

Education

PhD with relevant experience

M.Tech / M.E. or equivalent

B.Tech / B.E. or equivalent

Tools

CST Studio Suite

HFSS

FEKO

Spectrum analyzers

Vector network analyzers

Job description

Job Role: Communication Systems Engineer

Location: Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai

Job Category: Project Research Staff

About the Project:

A government-funded initiative at IIT Bombay focusing on the development and demonstration of drone and allied technologies. This project aims to address various applications through the utilization of advanced technologies and critical infrastructure. We foster strong industry connections and collaborations to solve pertinent challenges and drive technological advancements. Comprehensive drone training and awareness programs will be provided to ensure proficiency and understanding among people.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced candidate to contribute to the design, development and implementation of advanced communication architectures for unmanned aerial systems. The role focuses on end-to-end UAV communication system design to enable reliable, low-latency, and scalable data exchange across distributed aerial platforms and ground infrastructure. The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in both hardware and software, integrating communication protocols with algorithmic frameworks while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Collaboration across teams will be essential to drive innovative system improvements.

Qualifications and Key Skills Required:

• PhD with relevant experience, OR
• M.Tech / M.E. or equivalent degree with relevant experience, OR
• B.Tech / B.E. or equivalent degree with relevant experience.
• In-depth knowledge of wired and wireless communication protocols.
• Strong understanding of RF systems, antenna theory, link budget calculation
• Hands-on experience RF testing using instruments such as spectrum analyzers and vector network analyzers.
• Knowledge of EMI/EMC considerations and RF interference mitigation techniques for embedded and airborne platforms.
• Experience with satellite communication (SATCOM) systems, including satellite modems, terminals and network architecture
• Understanding of SATCOM protocols, link characteristics, latency and bandwidth optimization
• Familiarity with RF simulation and antenna design/analysis tools (e.g., CST Studio Suite, HFSS, FEKO, or equivalent) is desirable.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Design and develop robust communication systems for UAVs and their supporting infrastructure
• Optimize MAC layer protocols for multi-node wireless networks
• Select and evaluate components including communication modules and development boards
• Utilize simulation tools for testing and validating system behaviors under real-world conditions
• Analyze and optimize link throughput, latency, and signal robustness under varying conditions.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance the capabilities of UAV systems
• Document design processes and test results, and provide technical reports