Space System Architect - D2D Communications

The role

The Chief Space Mission Architect will own the end-to-end space segment architecture for a next-generation Direct-to-Device LEO constellation. This role involves moving between high-level constellation design and detailed payload and spacecraft integration.

What you will do

• Architect an advanced D2D communications mission including constellation geometry and link budgets
• Define and maintain mission-level requirements, CONOPS, and interfaces
• Lead constellation-level trade studies to optimize capacity, resiliency, and cost
• Drive architecture, requirements, and integration approach for advanced communications payloads
• Work with spacecraft design and manufacturing teams to support mission and production needs
• Own end-to-end mission performance modeling and simulation
• Partner with ground systems, network, and product teams to translate service requirements
• Support system integration, environmental test campaigns, and on-orbit validation
• Contribute to technical roadmap, proposals, and customer engagements
• Mentor engineers and help establish best practices in mission and systems engineering

Required qualifications

• Significant experience in space mission architecture or space systems engineering
• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or related field
• Hands-on experience in spacecraft design and manufacturing
• Direct experience with communications payload development and/or integration
• Strong skills in mission and system-level modeling and analysis
• Ability to define and manage mission-level requirements, CONOPS, and interface control
• Ability to thrive in ambiguous, fast-paced environments
• Excellent communication skills
• Active habits using AI tools and a track record of folding new ones into your workflow
• U.S. person (citizen or permanent resident) required
• Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a TS-level clearance

Nice to have

• Advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience
• Experience with small satellites or LEO platforms

Benefits

• Competitive compensation packages including a stock option based equity program
• Medical, dental, and vision
• Retirement plan
• Monthly allowances for wellness and education reimbursement
• Generous time off policy
• Holidays
• Opportunity to temporarily work abroad

Before you apply

• U.S. person (citizen or permanent resident) required due to export control and government customer requirements
• Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a TS-level clearance

About the company

Skylo has pioneered a standards-based approach to satellite connectivity, connecting smartphones and IoT devices directly to satellites. Their direct-to-device service is live on millions of activated devices across five continents.