Satellite Payload AI&T Lead — Systems Architect

Viasat; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 142,000 - 264,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat in Tempe, AZ is seeking a technical lead for Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) of a satellite payload. You will drive the development and delivery of Payload Support/Test Equipment and ground systems, spanning design, integration, and readiness for launch.

You will architect testbeds, hardware harnesses, and interface electronics, lead emulators and software interfaces, and own end-to-end payload verification activities with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.
• 8+ years of experience in systems, integration & test, or payload test engineering.
• Experience leading complex test systems or payload integration efforts.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft payloads, interfaces, and system integration.
• Experience developing test plans, procedures, and build documentation.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage technical execution.
• Strong communication skills and customer/stakeholder interface experience.
• Strong experience with RF test equipment including spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, and network analyzers.
• Must be a US Citizen
• Ability to travel up to 20%.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end payload AI&T strategy, including STE, GSE, and GSW development and delivery.
• Define architecture and design of payload testbeds, including hardware, harnessing, and interface electronics.
• Drive design for Payload manufacturing, build plans, test plans, procedures, and build travelers from start of payload integration through launch.
• Lead the design, creation, and implementation of all payload test procedures and their scripted automations.
• Oversee emulator development and associated software interfaces for test and operations.
• Support integration and test activities through I&T, including anomaly resolution and system validation.
• Coordinate delivery of payload flight hardware, test hardware, documentation, and training to the satellite bus provider.
• Manage schedules, milestones, and cross-functional coordination to ensure on-time delivery.
• Ensure proper documentation, configuration control, and compliance with established processes.
• Drive risk identification, mitigation, and communication across stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Systems integration

Test engineering

RF test equipment

Stakeholder management

Communication

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelors in Electrical Engineering

Tools

InControl

COSMOS

Python

MATLAB

Spacecraft testbeds

Job description

Viasat in Tempe, AZ is seeking a technical lead for Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) of a satellite payload. You will drive the development and delivery of Payload Support/Test Equipment and ground systems, spanning design, integration, and readiness for launch.

You will architect testbeds, hardware harnesses, and interface electronics, lead emulators and software interfaces, and own end-to-end payload verification activities with cross-functional teams.