Communication Systems Engineer
About Apex
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses as scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
Please note: our employees view Apex as their life’s mission. As such, we have an intense culture of curiosity, hunger, and results. If you want a typical 9-5 job, this is not the place for you. If you live and breathe aerospace, if you believe the future of humanity is beyond Earth, and if you want to be a foundational member of that journey beyond our planet, Apex is the place for you. This will be an intense, results-focused mission, where you will be surrounded by a passionate team that strives to move quickly, reliably, and intelligently.
Job Summary
We are seeking a talented and experienced Communication Systems Engineer to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, development, integration, and testing of communication systems for our satellite bus. Your expertise will contribute to ensuring seamless and efficient communication between satellites, ground stations, and end-users. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet project objectives, adhere to industry standards, and maintain the highest levels of quality and reliability.
Responsibilities
1. Design, develop, and optimize communication systems for satellite vehicles, including spacecraft payloads, transponders, antennas, and ground-based equipment.
2. Perform system-level analysis, modeling, and simulation to evaluate communication system performance, capacity, and coverage.
3. Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to integrate communication systems into satellite platforms, ensuring compatibility and seamless operation.
4. Conduct feasibility studies and make recommendations for system enhancements, upgrades, and new technologies to improve network efficiency, reliability, and performance.
5. Participate in the development of requirements and specifications for communication systems, ensuring compliance with customer needs, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
6. Support the testing, verification, and validation of communication systems, including subsystem and system-level testing, troubleshooting, and performance evaluation.
7. Conduct risk assessments, identify potential issues, and develop contingency plans to mitigate risks associated with communication systems.
8. Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, network engineers, and operations personnel.
9. Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and standards in the field of communication systems engineering, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Requirements
1. Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
2. Proven experience (3-5 years) in the design, development, and implementation of communication systems, preferably within the satellite industry.
3. Strong knowledge of communication protocols, such as TCP/IP, DVB-S2, and CCSDS, as well as RF communication principles and modulation techniques.
4. Proficiency in system-level modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink) and satellite communication analysis tools (e.g., STK, Satmaster).
5. Familiarity with satellite communication standards and regulatory frameworks, including ITU regulations and frequency coordination processes.
6. Experience with communication system testing, including test plan development, test execution, and analysis of test results.
7. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex technical issues to develop innovative solutions.
8. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
9. Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment, managing multiple priorities and tasks effectively.
Join our team and contribute to the advancement of satellite communication technology, shaping the future of global connectivity. As a Communication Systems Engineer, you will have the opportunity to work on challenging projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and make a significant impact in the satellite industry.
Benefits
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We offer the following benefits:
- Work with a small, dynamic team that enables you and offers you the resources you need to do your best work putting hardware into orbit.
- Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.
- Best-in-class healthcare, dental, and vision plans.
- Unlimited PTO, with a required 2 week/year minimum.
- Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self.
- A world class office located in Culver City, filled with snacks, amazing coworkers, and social gatherings for you and your family.
- Paternity/maternity leave.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, 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.