Principal Satellite C&DH Engineer II

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.

The Principal Satellite C&DH Engineer II will be responsible for the architecture, design, development, testing, and integration of the Command and Data Handling (C&DH) subsystem for our next-generation satellite platforms. The ideal candidate will provide technical leadership and guidance throughout the development lifecycle and work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful delivery of robust, high-performance satellite systems.

• Lead the design, development, and validation of satellite C&DH subsystems, including onboard processors, data buses, memory, and telemetry systems.
• Develop system-level requirements, architectures, and design documentation for the C&DH subsystem.
• Perform trade studies and analyses to select appropriate hardware and software components for the C&DH subsystem.
• Oversee the integration and testing of C&DH hardware and software with other satellite subsystems.
• Collaborate with avionics, software, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of C&DH systems with other satellite subsystems.
• Conduct fault analysis and implement fault management strategies to enhance the reliability and robustness of the C&DH subsystem.
• Participate in mission simulations, ground segment development, and operations planning for satellite missions.
• Lead and mentor a team of engineers, providing technical direction and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices in satellite C&DH systems.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; Ph.D. is a plus.
• A minimum of 11 years of experience in satellite C&DH engineering or a similar field, with a focus on the development and integration of satellite C&DH systems.
• Direct experience delivering satellite C&DH systems, from concept design through operation.
• Extensive knowledge of satellite C&DH architecture, components, and protocols.   
• Extensive knowledge of radiation effects management for digital and mixed-signal electronics.
• In-depth knowledge of industry trends and practices for high-volume LEO satellite design.
• Experience with satellite mission operations, including telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) systems.
• Strong understanding of system engineering principles, including requirements management, risk management, and verification and validation processes.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical teams or managing complex engineering projects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools and practices.
• Knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, or Python for embedded systems.
• Active U.S. Government Security Clearance is desired.

CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package featuring health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life and retirement plans. 

CesiumAstro, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.   

Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.