Avionics System Senior Engineer - Flight Communication (Radio Frequency)

Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of RF communication principles and experience with spacecraft communication systems, particularly in the challenging environment of space.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and development of a Radio Frequency communication systems for a spacecraft in LEO that will communicate with both the orbital systems and ground systems.

• Perform link budget analysis to ensure reliable communication throughout the mission,

• Specify antenna design and placement to optimize signal strength and reliability, accounting for spacecraft dynamics and orientation.

• Analyze and mitigate potential Radio Frequency interference issues with other communication systems (Space stations, Earth-based stations, other satellites).

• Define communication protocols and modulation schemes to support real-time data and telemetry/telecommand transmission between the spacecraft and remote systems.

• Conduct testing and validation of the RF communication system, including simulations, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, and in-orbit testing post-launch.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards for RF communication in space, including coordination with agencies like NASA, ESA, and ITU.

• Document technical designs, analyses, and test results, providing regular updates to the project team.

• Support the mission operations team in troubleshooting and resolving any communication issues that arise during the spacecraft’s mission

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

• 5+ years of experience in RF communication system design, preferably in aerospace or satellite communication environments.

• Proficiency in RF circuit design, including amplifiers, mixers, and filters.

• Expertise in antenna theory and design for space applications.

• Experience with link budget analysis, modulation techniques, and coding schemes for space communication systems.

• Knowledge of spacecraft communication protocols and standards (e.g., CCSDS).

• Experience with RF simulation tools (e.g., CST, HFSS, MATLAB, or similar).

• Understanding of orbital mechanics and their impact on RF communication (e.g., Doppler shift).

• Familiarity with space mission lifecycle, including design, integration, testing, and operations phases.

• Knowledge of space-qualified hardware and environmental challenges (radiation, thermal, vacuum) is a plus.

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:  

• We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind 

• We’re Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them  

• We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It’s a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?  

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly. 
 
The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.