Systems Verification & Validation Engineer

ThinKom Solutions; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

ThinKom Solutions in Hawthorne, CA seeks a Systems Verification & Validation Engineer to analyze telemetry, investigate anomalies, and develop automated test frameworks for airborne and ground connectivity systems. Build Python-based tests, work with RF and control systems, perform HIL testing with lab equipment, and verify ICDs/CONOPS while collaborating across Software, RF, and Field teams.

Requires BS/MS in engineering or CS, strong Python/Linux skills, FM networking know-how, and ability to

Qualifications

• BS or MS in a technical field such as engineering or CS.
• Strong Python, Linux CLI, and networking knowledge.
• Hands-on with hardware-in-the-loop and lab equipment.
• Ability to analyze telemetry and diagnose anomalies.

Responsibilities

• Analyze raw telemetry and logs to investigate field anomalies.
• Develop modular Python-based regression tests for STP coverage.
• Apply RF and control fundamentals to support test execution.
• Perform HIL testing with spectrum analyzers and oscilloscopes.
• Verify software and system behavior against ICDs/CONOPS.
• Diagnose embedded Linux networks and bus communications with Wireshark.
• Collaborate with Software, RF, and Field teams on findings.

Skills

Python scripting

Data analysis

Test automation

Linux CLI

Networking TCP/IP

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in engineering/science

Tools

Lab equipment operation

Spectrum analyzers

Oscilloscopes

RF signal generators

Wireshark

Job description

Build the Future of High-Performance Connectivity

At ThinKom, we don’t just build antennas - we design high-performance, next-generation mechanical systems that connect the world across air, land, sea, and space. From Inflight Connectivity (IFC) to High-Power Microwave (HPM) systems to Defense SATCOM, our technology operates in some of the world’s most demanding environments.

We are looking for an intellectually curious, hands-on Systems Verification & Validation Engineer who loves unraveling multi-variable engineering challenges, analyzing real-world operational data, and developing automated test frameworks that ensure mission-critical communication links stay connected.

POSITION SUMMARY

ThinKom's Systems Integration, Verification, and Validation (IVV) team supports critical technology sectors across our product portfolio, spanning Commercial In-Flight Connectivity (IFC), next-generation multi-beam Ground Stations and Gateway Arrays, land-mobile terminals, and special-mission aero platforms.

This position focuses specifically on expanding our Operational Anomaly Investigation and Test Automation capabilities. You will analyze raw operational telemetry from airborne and ground deployments to investigate complex connectivity anomalies, while developing automated testing frameworks to scale regression test coverage across ThinKom’s product lines.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Operational Anomaly Investigations: Parse and analyze raw operational logs and time-series telemetry to investigate field anomalies, isolate root causes for platform issues across airborne and ground systems.
• Automated Test Frameworks: Develop and maintain modular automated test scripts and frameworks in Python (e.g., PyTest) to scale System Test Procedure (STP) regression coverage.
• RF & Controls Applications: Apply working knowledge of RF fundamentals (frequency translation, signal down conversion, power levels, link budgets) and control systems (pointing geometry, closed-loop tracking, motion sensors) to assist in test execution, data analysis, and anomaly investigations.
• Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Testing: Execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration testing using laboratory equipment, including spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and antenna positioners/gimbals.
• Requirements & ICD Verification: Verify system and software behavior against Software Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and Concepts of Operations (CONOPS).
• Embedded Bus & Network Diagnostics: Diagnose network and bus communication anomalies across embedded Linux controllers, VLANs, serial links, and 3rd-party line-replaceable units (modems, ModMans) using tools
  like Wireshark.
• Telemetry & Data Tooling: Build automated data-processing and visualization scripts to turn complex test and operational telemetry into clear, actionable findings.
• Cross-Functional Debugging: Collaborate with Software, RF, Controls, and Field Engineering teams to isolate systemic defects and present empirical investigation findings during technical reviews.

WHAT YOU BRING

Must-Haves

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Software & Systems: Solid proficiency in Python for scripting, data analysis, and test automation. Practical experience in Linux command-line environments, shell scripting (Bash), and core networking concepts (TCP/IP, VLANs, socket communication).
• Hardware & Test Automation: Hands-on background building, testing, or debugging physical hardware/software in a collaborative team setting. Practical experience configuring and operating laboratory test equipment (e.g., digital spectrum analyzers, high-bandwidth oscilloscopes, RF vector signal generators, or logic analyzers).
• Data & Signal Analysis: Proven ability to inspect raw, noisy sensor plots, isolate true signals from anomalies, and deconstruct unfamiliar physical and mathematical problems from first principles.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient with core business software applications (MS Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Security & Eligibility: Must be a U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) due to U.S. Government contract requirements, and eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD Security Clearance.
• Professional Temperament & Soft Skills: High energy, creative problem-solving mindset, strong work ethic, and high emotional intelligence. Ability to collaborate constructively across teams and represent ThinKom with uncompromised integrity.
• Communication & Collaboration: Exceptional written, verbal, and formal presentation skills. Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional internal team members, as well as external suppliers and customers. Ability to present technical information clearly in team meetings and formal design reviews.

Nice-to-Haves (Preferred)

• Experience with Python testing frameworks and data/visualization libraries (e.g., PyTest, NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib).
• Hands-on experience building, maintaining, or integrating automated test suites within continuous integration pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, GitHub Actions).
• Exposure to satellite communication architectures, RF frequency translation (mixers, LNBs, local oscillators), antenna gain budgets, or link budget analysis.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Travel & Hours: Requires willingness and ability to travel up to 5% of the time. Subject to irregular and/or extended work hours, as well as shifting priorities in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment.
• Physical Requirements: Frequently sitting, using a computer terminal, and communicating across internal teams and external customers. Occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, reach, bend, and lift, push, or pull up to 40 lbs.
• Work Environment: Primarily standard office and business environments, with occasional presence in facilities subject to loud noises and regulated hazardous materials or chemicals.

WHY JOIN THINKOM?

At ThinKom, you'll work on innovative technologies that connect people around the world. Our engineers are empowered to solve meaningful technical challenges, collaborate with industry experts, and contribute to products that make a real impact. We value innovation, teamwork, technical excellence, and continuous learning while providing an environment where engineers can grow their careers and influence the future of advanced communications technology.

We foster a collaborative culture that values innovation, technical excellence, continuous learning, and professional growth. If you're looking for an opportunity to solve complex engineering challenges while helping shape the future of advanced antenna and electromagnetic technologies, we encourage you to apply.

Salary Range - $75,000 - $110,000
ThinKom offer generous benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life, 401k Matching (4%), PTO, paid Holidays and Bonus Plan

ThinKom Solutions is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

ThinKom Solutions is a Drug and Alcohol free working environment with a zero-tolerance policy