System Engineer

Ground Systems Engineer

Location: San Jose, CA or Littleton, CO (Hybrid)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary Range: $120,000 – $170,000 USD

About the Role

We are seeking a Ground Systems Engineer to support the development, integration, and operation of satellite ground systems for mission-critical space applications. In this role, you will work closely with ground station providers, satellite operations teams, IT, and ground software engineering to ensure seamless connectivity and mission execution.

This position requires strong systems thinking, the ability to synthesize complex and sometimes conflicting requirements, and a hands-on approach to integrating RF and ground infrastructure. You will serve as a key bridge between hardware, software, and operations teams, ensuring reliable and scalable ground segment performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop working knowledge of radio systems to support integration, troubleshooting, and operations
• Serve as a liaison with ground station providers, documenting technical capabilities, constraints, and operational nuances
• Act as the first line of support for ground segment issues, including mission-critical anomalies
• Compile and maintain ground segment specifications to support regulatory filings (e.g., FCC applications)
• Maintain detailed documentation of ground infrastructure to support link budget analysis and system planning
• Develop and manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs) across multiple ground segment providers
• Evaluate and ensure compatibility of new and existing radio systems across diverse ground station networks
• Own project execution, including coordinating testing, satellite passes, system bring-up, and performance characterization
• Lead ground station compatibility testing efforts for current and future missions
• Collaborate with ground station providers to integrate RF systems with operational software and infrastructure
• Serve as the responsible engineer for communications security considerations within the ground segment
• Lead development and deployment of standalone ground infrastructure for future missions

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field)
• 4+ years of experience in system design, integration, or engineering (space or ground systems preferred)
• Strong documentation skills with attention to detail across complex system architectures
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and RF block diagrams
• Familiarity with RF components and communication systems
• Experience with satellite ground modems (e.g., qRadio, Works Microwave, GNU Radio or similar)
• Proficiency with Linux-based operating systems
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Amateur (ham) radio experience or strong interest in RF systems
• Experience designing RF systems using discrete components
• Experience integrating ground station providers, including link budget analysis and operational data flow

Why Join

• Work on mission-critical satellite systems supporting real-world space applications
• Play a key role in bridging RF hardware, ground infrastructure, and software systems
• High ownership role with direct impact on mission success
• Collaborative, fast-paced engineering environment with opportunities for growth