SatCom, ISR & Space Payload Architect

191 Altera Corporation; Portsmouth (VA); On-site; USD 169,000 - 244,700; Full time

Job summary

191 Altera Corporation seeks a SatCom, ISR, and Space Payload Architect based in Portsmouth, Virginia. This position focuses on architecting FPGA-based solutions for satellite communications, ISR, and onboard space payload processing. The candidate should have 8+ years of relevant experience and a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.

The architect will define system architectures, design signal processing pipelines, and collaborate with teams for successful application implementation. Altera offers competitive compensation and benefits.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in satellite communications, ISR systems, or related fields.
• Hands-on experience with digital signal processing for communications or sensing systems.
• Experience with system-level design in constrained environments.

Responsibilities

• Define system architectures for satellite communications applications leveraging FPGA technologies.
• Design and optimize signal processing pipelines for various applications.
• Collaborate with teams to influence roadmap and deliver optimized solutions.

Skills

Digital Signal Processing

FPGA Design (VHDL/Verilog/SystemVerilog)

Satellite Communications

ISR Systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

FPGA Development Tools

Communication Protocol Standards

High-speed Data Interfaces (PCIe, Ethernet)

Job description

Altera is seeking a SatCom, ISR, and Space Payload Architect to lead technical engagements and solution development for next‑generation space and defense platforms. This role will focus on architecting FPGA‑based solutions for satellite communications, intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance (ISR), and onboard space payload processing. Candidates must be located within a commutable distance of the Altera New Hampshire office, once the office is established.

Key Responsibilities

• Define system architectures for SatCom, ISR, and space payload applications leveraging Altera FPGA technologies.
• Partner with customers and internal teams to translate mission requirements into scalable, high‑performance solutions.
• Design and optimize signal processing pipelines for applications such as modulation/demodulation, channelization, encryption, and image/sensor processing.
• Drive adoption of FPGA‑based acceleration for onboard processing, including real‑time and edge compute in space environments.
• Collaborate with hardware, software, and product teams to influence roadmap and deliver optimized solutions.
• Support system integration across RF front‑end, digital processing, and high‑speed interconnects.
• Provide technical leadership across design, verification, and deployment phases.
• Develop reference architectures, white papers, and technical collateral for aerospace and defense customers.

The pay range below is for NH only. Actual salary may vary based on a number of factors including job location, job‑related knowledge, skills, experiences, trainings, etc. We also offer incentive opportunities that reward employees based on individual and company performance.

$169.0K - $244.7K USD

We use artificial intelligence to screen, assess, or select applicants for the position. Applicants must be eligible for any required U.S. export authorizations.

Qualifications

• Minimum: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in satellite communications, ISR systems, or space payload design.
• Strong background in digital signal processing (DSP) for communications or sensing systems.
• Hands‑on experience with FPGA design (VHDL/Verilog/SystemVerilog, RTL development).
• Experience with communication protocols and standards (e.g., DVB‑S2/S2X, CCSDS, LDPC, etc.).
• Familiarity with high‑speed data interfaces (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, JESD204).
• Experience with system‑level design in constrained environments (power, thermal, radiation).

Security Clearance Requirement

This position may involve work on U.S. Government contracts that require access to controlled or classified information. Accordingly, all applicants must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance as a condition of employment. Failure to obtain or maintain the required security clearance may result in the withdrawal of an employment offer or termination of employment, consistent with applicable law.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with onboard satellite payload processing or software‑defined payloads.
• Knowledge of RF systems, link budgets, and waveform design.
• Experience with AI/ML acceleration in ISR or space‑based analytics.
• Familiarity with Altera FPGA architecture and toolchain.
• Understanding of radiation‑tolerant design and space qualification requirements.

Key Competencies

• Strong system‑level architecture and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to balance performance, power, and reliability for space environments.
• Customer‑facing experience with aerospace/defense stakeholders.
• Clear communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

Job Type

Regular

Shift

Shift 1 (United States of America)

Primary Location

Portsmouth

Additional Locations

San Jose, California, United States

Posting Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.