Senior Systems Architect - 5G NTN & UE Terminal

Viasat; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 180,500 - 285,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat is seeking a Senior Systems Architect for the UE Terminal NTN Platform to be onsite in Carlsbad, CA. You will drive end-to-end system architecture for the NTN platform, align with 3GPP Rel-19/20, and work with chipset vendors and OEMs to define feasible UE terminal implementations for IoT and RedCap applications.

You will lead architectural decisions, develop technical requirements, and shepherd integration and validation across UE, RAN, core, and interworking functions to ensure

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in wireless communications, cellular devices, or system architecture.
• Strong knowledge of LTE and 5G NR technologies.
• Deep understanding of UE architecture, modem chipsets, RF systems, and device integration.
• Experience defining system architectural requirements to UE requirements.
• Senior individual contributor with architectural authority.
• Experience working with chipset vendors, OEMs, and network partners.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• Availability to travel up to 20%.

Responsibilities

• Represent the UE Terminal group in end-to-end system infrastructure architecture for Viasat’s D2D NTN platform.
• Define UE Terminal features aligned with 3GPP Rel-19/20 NTN specifications and standards.
• Lead architectural discussions with NTN and TN stakeholders to ensure roadmap alignment.
• Translate product goals into architectural principles, interfaces, and assumptions across NTN and TN.
• Evaluate and benchmark NTN-capable modems and reference designs.
• Lead technical engagement with chipset vendors and device manufacturers.
• Define validation strategies and support certification activities (PTCRB, GCF, OTA).

Skills

Wireless communications

System architecture

LTE & 5G NR

Technical leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Communication skills

Time management

Travel readiness

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering/Physics/related

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Chipset evaluation

Vendor engagement

3GPP standards

OTA testing

Job description

Viasat is seeking a Senior Systems Architect for the UE Terminal NTN Platform to be onsite in Carlsbad, CA. You will drive end-to-end system architecture for the NTN platform, align with 3GPP Rel-19/20, and work with chipset vendors and OEMs to define feasible UE terminal implementations for IoT and RedCap applications.

You will lead architectural decisions, develop technical requirements, and shepherd integration and validation across UE, RAN, core, and interworking functions to ensure