Ground Station Systems Engineer

Barrios; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Barrios is seeking a Ground Station Systems Engineer in Houston, Texas, to support innovative projects in the space exploration sector. The successful candidate will be involved in operating a global ground station network, assisting in the design, integration, and testing of ground station systems, and contributing to mission activities.

This role demands engineering expertise, especially in RF and digital signal testing, and requires a BS degree in a related field with at least five years of experience. The position prioritizes candidates with strong decision-making skills in high-pressure environments.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen and pass a government background investigation.
• Experience with spacecraft subsystems such as flight control and avionics.
• Ability to perform under pressure and make time-critical decisions.

Responsibilities

• Support real-time operation of a global ground station network.
• Develop operational products including procedures and schedules.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to integrate ground software.

Skills

Ground station testing and operational workflows

Benchtop testing of RF, analog, and digital signals

Familiarity with test equipment

Cross-disciplinary engineering support

Microsoft Office and collaboration tools

Education

BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent

10+ years of related engineering experience

Tools

Network analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Modems

Job description

Ground Station Systems Engineer

Barrios Technology is an engineering solutions partner with more than 45 years of experience supporting NASA and the commercial space industry. We deliver innovative engineering, software, and technology integration services across NASA centers nationwide. Barrios prides itself on a people‑focused culture that values creativity, diversity, professional growth, and a healthy work‑life balance.

Exciting opportunities and partnerships molding the future of space exploration have led to the need for Ground Station Systems Engineers at Barrios Technology. Our Commercial Space team is positioned to contribute to the future of space exploration as we build partnerships with established leaders in Commercial Space. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to play in a role in various commercial space endeavors with our partners that include Intuitive Machines, Axiom Space, Lockheed Martin, and others.

Responsibilities

• Support real‑time operation and continuous advancement of a global ground station network
• Support design, integration, test, and operation of ground station hardware and software systems
• Assist in creating and executing test plans for: Baseband Units (BBUs), RF systems and signal chains, AWS cloud infrastructure, Mission control center systems, Critical TT&C ground elements
• Develop operational products, including: Procedures, Asset schedules, Troubleshooting documentation, Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
• Participate in technical meetings such as working groups and Integrated Product Teams (IPTs)
• Serve as a real‑time ground operator during mission activities
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to integrate ground software and network automation
• Support Integration & Verification (I&V) activities across the ground segment
• Develop and enforce Mission Rules to ensure system health and mission success
• Contribute across the full cradle‑to‑grave lifecycle

Qualifications

• Required Education/Experience/Skills:
  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent from an accredited engineering school and five (5) years of related engineering experience
  • OR ten (10) years of related engineering experience
  • Proficiency in ground station testing and operational workflows
  • Experience with benchtop testing of RF, analog, and digital signals
  • Familiarity with test equipment such as: Network analyzers, Oscilloscopes, Modems
  • Knowledge of common ground hardware including HPAs, LNAs, circulators, and diplexers
  • Demonstrated ability to perform under pressure and make time‑critical decisions in highrisk environments
  • Experience with preflight training, integrated procedures, and mission rule development
  • Ability to provide cross‑disciplinary engineering support
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and collaboration tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence)
• Preferred Education/Experience/Skills:
  • Familiarity with ground station design and TT&C operations (hardware, software, RF communications)
  • Experience with spacecraft subsystems such as: Flight control, Flight dynamics, Orbital mechanics, Avionics, Power systems, Command & Telemetry
  • Real‑time satellite/spacecraft operations experience across multiple technical domains
  • Understanding of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, UDP, routing, DHCP)
  • Experience working with international partners or supporting global operations
• Essential Requirements:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and successfully complete a U.S. government background investigation.
  • Post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol as outlined in our Drug Free Workplace policy.
  • Work may involve sitting for extended periods.
  • May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lb.
  • Must have sufficient mobility to enter areas of test facilities where necessary.
  • Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.
  • Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, fax, etc.)
  • Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical.
  • Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements when required.
  • Must be able to work in a team atmosphere.
  • Must put forward a professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation.
  • Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.
  • This position may require some commuting and traveling to other installations as needed.

Barrios Technology is a drug‑free workplace, which is imperative to the health and safety of all employees and is required as a condition of receiving contracts from federal agencies. Please remember that regardless of the legalization of marijuana in several states, possession and use continues to be illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. This includes the use of some CBD products. A post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test is a condition of employment.

Barrios Technology is an Equal Employment Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.