RF & Communication Systems Architect

Terran Orbital Corporation • Irvine, CA

2d

About The Position

Join a team where your impact reaches beyond the stars! At Terran Orbital, you’re not just part of the system – you’re a vital force propelling our mission forward. As trailblazers in satellite manufacturing and aerospace innovation, we shatter boundaries daily to deliver groundbreaking solutions that power our nation’s defense and commercial missions. We are a unique, fast growing, and trusted team dedicated to swiftly and efficiently designing, building, launching, and operating state of the art satellites for advanced mission constellations. If you’re driven by purpose, inspired by challenges, and ready to leave your mark on the universe, you’ll find a home and endless opportunities for growth here. Together, let’s redefine what is possible in orbit and beyond!
Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced RF & Communication Systems Architect to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Sr. Director, Platforms & Mission Engineering the RF & Communication Systems Architect will lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced communications architectures for next-generation satellite platforms. This role requires deep expertise in RF front-end (RFFE), modem design, active electronically scanned arrays (AESA), link analysis, GNSS, direct conversion architectures, and ADC/DAC technologies. As a technical SME, you will architect end-to-end communications solutions, define technology roadmaps, and ensure seamless integration of RF subsystems into spacecraft and mission architectures. You will collaborate across avionics, propulsion, navigation, and computing domains to deliver resilient, high-performance communications systems for government and commercial missions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 12+ years of experience in RF communications systems design and architecture.
• Demonstrated expertise in: RFFE design and integration
• Modem architectures and DSP algorithms
• AESA development and phased array control
• Link analysis and performance modeling
• GNSS resilience and navigation integration
• Direct conversion architectures and ADC/DAC systems
• Proven track record architecting complex “systems of systems” for space or aerospace missions.
• Eligible for U.S. DoD security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required).

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with deep space communications, inter-satellite links, and ground station networks.
• Knowledge of secure computing architectures and regulatory spectrum management.
• Background in digital signal processing algorithms and advanced communications theory.
• Experience working with NASA, DoD, or other government partners on communications systems.
• Track record of innovation demonstrated through patents, publications, or successful technology transitions.

Benefits

• 100% Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents
• 401(k) Match
• Flexible Time Off (FTO)
• Education Reimbursement
• Competitive Paid Parental Leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level