Communication Architectures Modeling and Analysis Engineer

​​At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.   With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!​ 

The Communication Architectures Department (CAD) has three main lines of work: the department performs trade studies, analyses, and simulations to optimize the overall communications performance of terrestrial, satellite, launch vehicle, and ground-based systems. CAD also guides the development of spectrum regulations and policies to assure critical wireless systems have access to necessary spectrum resources. Finally, we are actively engaged in the development of RF communications prototypes, especially those involving commercial LEO satellite systems.​ 

​​Work Model: The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at​​ El Segundo, CA.​ 

​​What You’ll Be Doing​ 

• ​​Performing technical analyses of terrestrial and space-based communication systems, including latest-generation cellular and commercial pLEO 

• ​Developing working prototypes leveraging these systems and novel hardware to demonstrate capability improvements 

• ​Assess the performance of satellite and ground systems, communication links, and wireless network protocols 

• ​Document work products in briefings and/or technical reports to customers and colleagues 

• ​Opportunities to propose and carry out internal R&D projects, engage in field work, and publish in conferences and journals​ 

​​What You Need to be Successful – ​​Member of Technical Staff​ 

​​Minimum Requirements:​  

• ​​Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field 

• ​A minimum of 2 years' practical experience in a relevant STEM field, including graduate studies​ 

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and C++ (or similar) 

• Hands-on experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Bitbucket) 

• An understanding of wireless communications principles and signal processing techniques 

• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance as required 

​​In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for ​​Senior Member of Technical Staff​​:​ 

• A minimum of 3 years’ practical experience working in a relevant STEM field 

• Documented experience leading engineering teams or projects in a professional setting, with a track record of driving cross-functional initiatives, managing project timelines, and delivering effective technical solutions. 

​​How You Can Stand Out 

​ It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:​ 

• ​​​Experience with network traffic modeling and analysis 

• ​Demonstrated track record in tested AI/ML applications, particularly as applied to RF and network data 

• ​Proven ability to develop deployable systems on Linux using Docker, with hands-on experience in CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins or similar), build automation tools, and managing Python projects with automated testing frameworks and modern tooling 

• ​Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance 

• ​Graduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant field​​