Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Engineer - TS/SCI w/Poly

General Dynamics Information Technology; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K with company match

Comprehensive health and wellness

Internal mobility support

Paid vacation and holidays

Professional growth opportunities

Cutting-edge technology

Job summary

General Dynamics Information Technology is seeking a Satellite Communication (SATCOM)/Network Engineer to design, evaluate, test and plan complex internal networks for national security missions. You will support high-level requests and secure network infrastructures to enhance productivity while mitigating threats and reducing costs.

You will analyze satellite systems, perform link budgets, and oversee integration of RF subsystems such as FDMA/TDMA modems.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of system engineering experience
• Expertise with satellite/RF systems analysis including link budgets and modulation/demodulation
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts for varied audiences

Responsibilities

• Analyze, design, and simulate satellite communications networks and subsystems
• Evaluate space segment leases, bandwidth, and frequency management
• Support maintenance of antenna controllers and RF subsystems (SSPA, LNA/LNB, up/down converters)
• Provide real-time operational assistance during spacecraft anomalies and document outcomes
• Manage SATCOM projects from concept to hardware delivery
• Prepare detailed plans and equipment operating procedures

Skills

Satellite/RF expertise

Link budgets

Real-time support

Network troubleshooting

Technical writing

Independent work

Strong communication

Project planning

System integration

Adaptability

Job description

Ensure the safety and security of our nation as a Satellite Communication (SATCOM)/Network Engineer at GDIT.

As the Satellite Communication (SATCOM)/Network Engineer is responsible for designing, evaluating, testing, and planning of the customer’s complex internal network. The candidate will provide technical assistance on high-level system and networking requests. The candidate will also secure and manage network infrastructures to enhance productivity, mitigate threats, and reduce costs.

HOW A SATCOM/NETWORK ENGINEER WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

• Analyzes, designs, models, and simulates communications systems, subsystems, and algorithms for satellite communications networks
• Evaluate lease costs for space segments, bandwidth requirements, and frequency management; specifically, frequency changes, Spectrum management & link outages
• Provides expert operations and maintenance support of antenna controllers, Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA), Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA)/Low-Noise Block downconverter (LNB), up and down converters, Frequency-Division multiple access (FDMA)/Time division multiple access (TDMA) modems (military and commercial)
• Provide support for commercial satellite acquisition procedures
• Perform or oversee complex engineering tasks associated with the research, design, and development of an integrated SATCOM system comprised of multiple components and subsystems
• Manage SATCOM projects from conceptualization to delivery of hardware solutions
• Prepare detailed plans, systems specifications and equipment operating procedures for equipment

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO SUCCEED:

• The position requires an active TS/SCI with Poly clearance
• 10+ years of directly related experience in System Engineering experience
• Must have proven expertise with satellite/RF systems analysis including link budgets, noise analysis, modulation/demodulation signal analysis, and forward error correction coding
• Must have the ability to provide real-time assistance to operators during spacecraft anomalies; able to provide after-action reporting to document operational scenarios
• Experience with implementation and expert operations and maintenance of LNA/LNB, up and down converters, FDMA/TDMA modems (military and commercial)
• Strong data link and network layer troubleshooting skills
• Prior satellite communications operations experience; specifically, Starlink
• Knowledge of KU-band and C-band (Line of Sight) operations
• Experience writing technical requirements, specifications or statements of work
• Ability to learn and install video, network, and satellite systems
• Ability to react to fast-paced but short-term operational issues; as well as coordinating and planning long-term modernization efforts
• Function in accordance with the project management framework tailored to mission needs
• Proficient in translating user requirements and incorporate them into technical system requirements
• Must be able to engage in technical system planning beyond the network, to include applications and systems that utilize the network being delivered
• Must be willing and able to learn new technologies and nuances of collection systems and how they affect network characteristics
• Experience with satellite relay systems and terminals, including design, implementation and optimization of relay networks for efficient data transmission
• Experience with airborne satellite systems, including integration, operation, and troubleshooting of communications platforms in various flight environments
• Experience with Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite operations and providers, including understanding their unique operational characteristics and requirements
• SATCOM experience with an emphasis on network control and satellite operations (ground equipment and spacecraft)
• Exceptional communication skills; written and verbal. Must be able to translate highly technical situations into consumable laymen verbiage
• Highly organized, detail oriented, action-driven and have the ability to work independently
• Ability to react positively to changing environments and advance progress with minimal direction
• Location: At Customer Site – near Tyson Corner

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous experience working with DISA network team is preferred
• 8+ years supporting this customer

GDIT IS YOUR PLACE:

• 401K with company match
• Comprehensive health and wellness packages
• Internal mobility team dedicated to helping you own your career
• Professional growth opportunities including paid education and certifications
• Cutting-edge technology you can learn from
• Rest and recharge with paid vacation and holidays