Senior RF Communications Engineer, Space SATCOM

SES Space & DEFENSE; Reston, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

SES Space & Defense is seeking a Senior RF Communications Engineer to lead RF design, analysis, and optimization for space architectures, ensuring robust end-to-end SATCOM connectivity for critical missions. You will integrate and test waveforms, modems, antennas, and RF subsystems across space, ground, and network interfaces.

The role requires a strong track record in RF engineering for SATCOM or aerospace systems, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and a focus on performance metrics

Qualifications

• BS degree in Engineering or related field required.
• Experience in RF communications, SATCOM, or aerospace systems.
• Ability to model RF performance and lead integration/test activities.

Responsibilities

• Own RF communications design elements within the space architecture (link budgets, waveform performance, RF behavior).
• Lead RF integration and test activities across space, ground, and user terminals.
• Validate RF system performance against Eb/N0 margins, throughput, interference resilience, and mission availability.
• Collaborate across space, systems, and network engineering teams; support field tests and readiness assessments.

Skills

RF engineering

SATCOM

Link budgets

Waveforms

Modems

Antenna systems

Interoperability

Education

BS degree in Engineering

Tools

Test equipment

RF testing tools

Job description

SES Space & Defense is seeking a Senior RF Communications Engineer to lead RF design, analysis, and optimization for space architectures, ensuring robust end-to-end SATCOM connectivity for critical missions. You will integrate and test waveforms, modems, antennas, and RF subsystems across space, ground, and network interfaces.

The role requires a strong track record in RF engineering for SATCOM or aerospace systems, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and a focus on performance metrics