SES Satellites · 10 hours ago
meoSphere Payload System and Test Engineer
Long Beach, CA
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
8+ years expSES Satellites is seeking a highly skilled Payload Engineer to play a central role in the design, integration, testing, and optimisation of advanced satellite payloads. The role requires expertise in payload architecture and various testing strategies, collaborating closely with engineers and external partners to ensure mission success.
Communications InfrastructureHardwareSatellite CommunicationTelecommunicationsWired Telecommunications
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Translate payload architecture specifications into system and subsystem testing requirements
Drive payload calibration strategies and support overall performance optimisation
Define and manage all mechanical, electrical, and thermal interfaces for payload subsystems and equipment suppliers
Design, specify, and document payload harness interfaces with the platform and across test environments
Define payload and subsystem test requirements in line with the requirements matrix
Design and implement test setups across laboratory environments and project phases
Develop AIT (Assembly, Integration, and Test) procedures, including automated test frameworks
Lead testing strategies to maximise technical performance and cost efficiency
Establish and operate payload equipment in a comprehensive payload test facility
Perform hands-on hardware testing using VNAs, spectrum analysers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, multimeters, and power supplies
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics
8+ years of experience in satellite payload or systems engineering
5+ years of experience in laboratory, field, or in-orbit testing of communications systems
Fluency in English; other languages are considered an asset
Eligibility for National/NATO SECRET personnel security clearances is essential
Willing to work at least 60% onsite from office
Travel as required for project realization purposes
In-depth knowledge of DRA-based satellite payloads, particularly digital beamforming architectures and applications
Strong understanding of S-parameters, AM/AM, AM/PM, noise figure, and spurious test techniques from L-band to V-band
Expertise in far-field antenna testing
Experience with GaN-based SSPAs, including detailed characterisation
Familiarity with on-board processing architectures and their trade-offs
Proven experience in payload integration, interface definition, and system-level trade studies
Solid grasp of spacecraft assembly, integration, and testing processes
Proficiency in modelling and simulation tools (MATLAB, Python, STK, CST, HFSS, ADS)
Strong knowledge of payload interfaces, including antenna, RF, and electrical subsystems
Experience drafting technical documentation and managing complex system interfaces
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
High sensitivity to customers' needs and capacity to find solutions to complex technical problems and overcome obstacles to deliver a high quality of service
Preferred
Experience with NewSpace development approaches
Company
SES Satellites
At SES, we believe that space has the power to make a difference.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$5.99BKey Investors
European Investment Bank
2025-08-28Post Ipo Equity· $10.12M
2025-06-17Post Ipo Debt· $1.16B
2025-01-29Post Ipo Debt· $130.5M
Leadership Team
Adel Al-Saleh
CEO SES
Martin Halliwell
SVP and CTO with SES ASTRA
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