Communications & Data Handling Engineer – Small Satellite Missions

Communications & Data Handling Engineer – Small Satellite Missions

Join our team and build the future of space technology

We’re expanding our team at Alén Space and are looking for a Communications & Data Handling Engineer – Small Satellite Missions, passionate, talented, and experienced, to join our Space Missions area within the Communications & Data Handling (C&DH) team. The selected candidate will be responsible for defining, specifying, and verifying communication and data interfaces across the satellite platform, as well as supporting the electrical architecture and ground segment interfaces.

What you will be doing

• Selection and definition of on-board communication subsystems (OBCs, TTC modules, radios, antennas, etc.).
• Design of the logical architecture, including data buses, protocols, and internal communications.
• Specification of the electrical architecture, including power interfaces, grounding schemes, and subsystem connectivity.
• Preparation of Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for system compatibility.
• Design of harnessing and connector layouts in collaboration with mechanical and systems engineering teams.
• Planning of space-to-ground communication, including telemetry/downlink strategy and data routing.
• Supporting ground segment design to ensure compatibility with TTC equipment and mission requirements.
• Contributing to orbit-spectrum coordination activities and supporting ITU documentation.
• Performing and validating link budgets to ensure RF performance and coverage.

What we need in our team

• Degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience in:
• OBCs, TTC subsystems, radios, antennas, and satellite communications.
• Data buses and communication protocols (CAN, I²C, UART, SPI, etc.).
• Electrical design, power interfaces, grounding, and EMC considerations.
• Familiarity with interface definition and documentation (ICDs).
• Knowledge of RF concepts and link budget analysis.
• Ability to collaborate across disciplines, communicate clearly, and document technical work.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

Valuable knowledge

• Experience with small satellite platforms or cubesats.
• Knowledge of ECSS standards.
• Familiarity with spectrum regulations and ITU filing processes.
• Experience in hardware procurement or specification of EGSE and electrical test setups.

Candidate qualifications and skills

• Ability to work remotely part of the time, as agreed with the Area Manager.
• Flexible start/finish times; reduced hours on Fridays and in summer.
• Competitive compensation with ongoing reviews and flexibility.
• Wellbeing programs including health, dental, and accident insurance; free fruit, coffee, and lunch every Friday.
• Personalized career development, training, and language learning support.
• Commitment to inclusion and diversity, promoting equal opportunities in recruitment.

If you resonate with this description, we might be a great match. Join us in building the future of space technology!