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Spacecraft Communications/DSP Engineer (Early)

Apex

Apex

Marketing & Communications
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Posted on Jun 14, 2024
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.
We are seeking a talented and experienced Communications / DSP Engineer to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, development, integration, and testing of communications systems for our satellite bus portfolio. 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:

  • Design, develop, and optimize communications systems and architecture for satellite vehicles, including spacecraft payloads, transponders, antennas, and ground-based equipment.
  • Build and Deploy GNU Radio or similar virtual modems/DSP back ends for satellite communications.
  • Collaborate with RF engineers and software engineers to integrate and test communications systems into satellite platforms, ensuring compatibility and seamless operation.
  • Conduct trade and feasibility studies and make recommendations for system enhancements, upgrades, and new technologies for various frequency bands to improve network efficiency, reliability, and performance.
  • Develop system requirements and specifications for communication systems, ensuring compliance with customer needs, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Develop test plans and procedures and support the testing, verification, and validation of communications systems, including subsystem and system-level testing, troubleshooting, and performance evaluation.
  • Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, network engineers, and operations personnel.
  • Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and standards in the field of communication systems engineering, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements:

  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • 1-3 years in the design, development, and implementation of communications systems, preferably within the space industry.
  • Strong knowledge in SDR/DSP development in tools like GNU Radio
  • Strong knowledge in software programming in Python and/or C/C++ and the code development cycle
  • Strong knowledge of communications protocols such as TCP/IP, DVB-S2, and CCSDS, as well as RF communications principles and modulation techniques and MODCODs.
  • Knowledge in writing hardware drivers to interface with radios/modems/SDRs
  • Proficiency in link budget analysis and system-level modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink) and satellite communications analysis tools.
  • Familiarity with satellite communications standards and regulatory frameworks, including the FCC licensing process, ITU regulations and frequency coordination processes.
  • Experience with communications system testing, including test plan development, test execution, and analysis of test results.
  • Experience in signal waveform design techniques to optimize communications system performance and spectral efficiency.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex technical issues to develop innovative solutions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment, managing multiple priorities and tasks effectively.
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:
- Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.
- Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. The primary's premium is 99%+ covered.
- Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, fostering employee well-being.
- Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.
- Paternity/maternity leave.
- Daily lunch, unlimited snacks, and regular office BBQs!
- 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 amazing coworkers and social gatherings for you and your family.
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.