Sr. Communications Payload Architect
SpinLaunch
Marketing & Communications, IT
Long Beach, CA, USA
SpinLaunch is building Meridian, a next-generation broadband constellation designed to deliver high-capacity, low-latency connectivity to users around the globe. Backed by leading venture capital and engineering partners, we are rapidly scaling the design, production, and deployment of the satellites and ground systems that will bring Meridian online. Joining the Meridian team means working at the forefront of one of the most ambitious commercial space programs underway today — designing, building, and operating spacecraft that will reshape global connectivity. You'll be part of a close-knit, collaborative team that thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment, where your work directly advances a constellation that millions will depend on.
Your Mission on the Team:
You will own the end-to-end payload architecture, design, procurement and test strategy for the Meridian satellite payload, including:
- Optimizing the analog communications payload design across performance, cost, reliability, flexibility, and feasibility, leveraging Meridian's unique IP and satcom constellation approach
- Identifying and partnering with vendors and technology providers to deliver the best overall payload architecture
- Translating constellation level requirements into payload requirements, interfaces and verification plans
- Tracking all payload applications and ensuring the design meets requirements across each use case
- Running trade studies on alternative payload configurations to identify the optimal fit for the Meridian constellation
- Planning, forecasting, and managing R&D efforts for communications payload subsystems
- Developing and overseeing the payload level qualification and end to end test plan
- Ensuring procured payload units and subsystems meet Meridian’s performance, cost, schedule and qualification requirements
- Working closely with spacecraft, ground, systems and operations teams to validate the full end to end payload system
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Communications Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years professional experience in communications payload, antenna, or RF systems design and development
- Strong understanding of analog RF/communications systems and antennas, including amplifiers, filters, frequency conversion, antenna design, and link budget analysis
- Experience leading payload trade studies across performance, cost, reliability, and manufacturability
- Skill in using and creating software tools to model communications and antenna systems performance (MATLAB, Python, ADS, HFSS, STK, etc.)
- Ability to work autonomously and exercise sound engineering judgement
- Strong interpersonal, verbal communication, and written communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- 10+ years professional experience in satellite communications payload and antenna design and development
- Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field
- Experience designing low-cost payloads and antennas intended for high production volumes
- Experience developing and executing payload-level mission qualification plans
- Familiarity with broadband satcom architectures, including LEO/MEO constellation tradeoffs, antenna architectures (phased array, reflector, etc.), and frequency planning
- Breadth of understanding of other spacecraft subsystems and general knowledge of satellite operations
ITAR Requirements
SpinLaunch is required by the U.S. Government to comply with various space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (“green card holder”) or a protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More information on ITAR can be found here.
SpinLaunch is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Each individual has the right to work in a professional environment that promotes equal employment opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices, including harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
