Principal RF Payload Lead Engineer – Direct-to-Device Connectivity

Join Space Network as a Principal RF Payload Lead Engineer and help shape the future of direct-to-device connectivity.

About the Role

Our client is seeking a Principal RF Payload Lead Engineer to lead the end-to-end architecture, design, development, and on-orbit performance of RF communications payloads for direct-to-device connectivity. You will own the technical solution from initial requirements and system architecture through hardware delivery, integration, testing, and mission operations support. This is the foundational hire for a new group, with the opportunity to define processes and build a team from the ground up.

About You

You are a hands-on technical leader with a track record of designing, building, testing, and deploying RF systems for real users. You are motivated by developing innovative RF and satellite communications products, and you thrive as a senior individual contributor focused on deep technical impact. Your RF experience is practical and extends beyond theory or simulation alone.

What You'll Do

• Define and architect RF payloads, including phased-array antennas, RF front ends, frequency planning, and waveform selection aligned with cellular standards.

• Lead the design and analysis of phased-array systems, including beamforming strategy, scan performance, EIRP and G/T optimization, coverage, and handover mechanisms.

• Oversee end-to-end link design, including link budgets, modulation and coding, Doppler compensation, interference analysis, and regulatory compliance.

• Direct integration and testing, including functional testing, RF performance verification, over-the-air testing, and environmental qualification.

• Collaborate with cellular teams to ensure compatibility with 3GPP and NTN behavior over satellite links, working closely with RAN and core network groups.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, with an emphasis on RF, communications, or electromagnetics.

• 8+ years of progressive experience in RF or communications systems engineering.

• Demonstrated experience developing new RF or satellite communications products for commercial markets.

• Ability to own the complete design cycle of RF or antenna systems, from specification and design through build, validation, and testing.

• Experience shipping RF products integrated into devices sold through partners, such as IoT modules, wearables, handsets, chipsets, or MNO programs.

• Expertise in phased-array or electronically steered antenna design, including beamforming, calibration, and over-the-air testing.

• Deep understanding of cellular standards (4G LTE, 5G NR, and 3GPP NTN) as applied to satellite links.

• Proficiency with RF simulation tools, EM solvers, and phased-array technologies.

• Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. security clearance.

Work Arrangement

• Hybrid: 2 to 3 days per week at the Mountain View, CA office (2301 Leghorn St, Mountain View, CA 94043).

Employment Type

• Full-time.

Salary

• $255,000–$270,000 annually.