Optical Communications Systems Engineer – Satellite Networks
Location: Southern California | Los Angeles
Sector: Aerospace / Defense / Optical Communications
️ Clearance: Active Top Secret preferred (Tier 5 or equivalent)
A leading U.S. defense and aerospace prime is expanding its engineering group dedicated to building space-based communications systems that define the edge of what’s possible. This division develops and delivers full-lifecycle satellite communication networks, with missions ranging from national security to advanced hybrid optical-RF constellations.
They are now hiring an Optical Communications Systems Engineer to join a highly collaborative, systems-level team responsible for architecture, integration, and performance across space payloads. This is a hands-on technical role, ideal for experienced engineers who thrive on building real systems – not just writing studies.
What You’ll Do
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Develop end-to-end optical and hybrid communications architectures for LEO, MEO, and GEO constellations
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Translate mission-level needs into high-level system requirements and payload specifications
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Lead and support system-level integration, from CONOPS and propagation modeling to unit testing and validation
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Collaborate with hardware and software teams, as well as external payload and platform providers
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Conduct trade studies, simulations, and performance analyses (link budget, throughput, distortion, SNR, etc.)
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Guide the design, build, test and delivery of advanced comms payloads – from proposals to on-orbit validation
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Develop and apply MATLAB and simulation tools for signal performance and system optimization
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Work across government, classified, and commercial satellite programs depending on clearance
What You Bring
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Systems engineering background across satellite communication systems
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Experience in optical, digital, or hybrid (RF/optical) payloads and network architectures
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Deep understanding of signal propagation, link analysis, system integration and verification
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Background in digital communications, modulation theory, or related waveform engineering
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Proficiency with tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, Python, or C++ for modeling and simulation
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Familiarity with payload development and testing processes in aerospace or defense
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A strong collaborative mindset – able to engage across domains and technical disciplines
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A clearance (Secret or TS/SCI) is a major advantage – especially with recent Tier 5 or equivalent
Why Join?
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Work on mission-critical systems already launching, flying, and delivering real capability
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Contribute to next-gen mesh networks, OISLs, and space-based transport layers
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Part of a growing, well-funded team with access to national-level space programs
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Full lifecycle programs – build the real thing, not just the paper
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Located in Southern California’s premier aerospace hub
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Adam Slade