Senior Principal SATCOM/RAN Architect

1 week ago

Tysons Corner, Virginia, United States AST SpaceMobile Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Senior Principal SATCOM/RAN Architect to lead the design and integration of next-generation tactical communications systems for AST SpaceMobile's defense programs. This role focuses on architecting hybrid networks that seamlessly bridge space-based assets with terrestrial tactical networks (e.g., wireless mesh radios, 5G) to support defense operations in contested environments. The ideal candidate is a subject matter expert in military SATCOM, cellular RAN technologies, and tactical waveforms who will serve as the technical authority for developing resilient, secure, and high-performance communication solutions for our defense customers.

Key Responsibilities

  • Architect end-to-end tactical communications systems integrating satellite backhaul (e.g., MUOS) with terrestrial wireless networks, including 5G RAN and ad-hoc mesh radios.
  • Lead technical design and optimization of waveforms, protocols, and network architectures for secure, low-latency communications in challenging operational environments.
  • Serve as the technical authority in customer-facing engagements, presenting system architectures, conducting trade studies, and translating mission requirements into technical solutions.
  • Provide technical leadership to internal and external engineering teams, reviewing designs, algorithms, and hardware/software integration plans for tactical systems.
  • Conduct system-level analysis, including link budgets, RF propagation modeling, interference mitigation, and performance assessments for hybrid space-ground networks.
  • Drive adoption of Open RAN principles and other open architecture standards to ensure interoperability and flexibility in defense solutions.
  • Contribute to RFI/RFP responses, proposal development, and strategic planning for new defense communications initiatives.

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Communications Engineering, or a related field; master's or Ph.D. preferred.

Experience:

A minimum of 10+ years in tactical communications engineering or systems architecture, with a proven track record at a senior level in the defense RF/SATCOM industry.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Deep expertise in military SATCOM systems and waveforms (e.g., MUOS, WGS).
  • Strong background in cellular and wireless technologies, including 5G architecture, Radio Access Networks (RAN), and mesh networking (e.g., MANET).
  • Experience with Open RAN standards (e.g., O-RAN 7.2x split) and software-defined radio (SDR) principles.
  • Active U.S. Security Clearance (TS/SCI) highly preferred.

Soft Skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and customer briefings.
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of all documentation and deliverables.
  • Strategic thinking and ability to lead complex technical discussions with senior stakeholders.

Technology Stack

  • RF modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB).
  • Network design and optimization tools.
  • Familiarity with SDR platforms and Open RAN frameworks.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
  • Occasional travel may be required for customer engagements and system-level reviews.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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