Physics & Hardware Systems Engineer (SATCOM)

Job description

Physics & Hardware Systems Engineer (SATCOM) Build the Future of High-Performance Connectivity At ThinKom, we don’t just build antennas - we design high-performance, next-generation mechanical systems that connect the world across air, land, sea, and space. From Inflight Connectivity (IFC) to High-Power Microwave (HPM) systems to Defense SATCOM, our technology operates in some of the world’s most demanding environments. We’re looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer who loves hands-on engineering, thrives on solving hard hardware problems, and wants to see their designs go from napkin sketch to physical deployment. If you're ready to lead critical programs, mentor rising talent, and push the limits of advanced satellite communications, this is your platform. Position Summary As a Physics & Hardware Systems Engineer (SATCOM), you will play a key role in architecting, developing, and deploying advanced RF satellite communication systems that keep critical global networks connected. Working as part of a high-impact Integrated Product Team (IPT) alongside Program Managers and tier-one defense/commercial partners, you will drive the end-to-end development lifecycle—from early architectural trade-offs and component evaluation to integration, testing, and production delivery. If you thrive on solving complex RF engineering challenges and driving real-world hardware solutions, this position is for you. What You’ll Do System Architecture & Interface Design: Lead architectural assessments, define component interactions, and establish seamless physical, functional, and program interfaces across complex SATCOM payloads and terminals. Hands-on Hardware Evaluation: Evaluate critical RF sub-assemblies and COTS components—including antennas, LNBs, HPAs, up/down-converters, multiplexers, reference oscillators, and PLLs. Requirements & Verification: Direct requirements flow-down, matrix traceability, and verification testing to ensure integrated solutions satisfy performance, reliability, usability, and security needs. Customer & Subcontractor Leadership: Lead requirements IPTs and working group sessions with external customers and suppliers; prepare and present key design reviews (PDR/CDR). Cross-Program Execution: Support multiple active programs through conceptual design, detailed engineering, integration, and final production delivery. Continuous Improvement: Refine system analysis, monitoring routines, and test frameworks to continuously elevate team execution and product performance. What You Bring Must-Haves: Education: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Experience: 2+ years of systems engineering experience with a demonstrated track record of architecting, developing, and validating complex RF communication systems. RF Domain Expertise: Strong subject-matter expertise in RF SATCOM systems and deep familiarity with key RF component technologies (amplifiers, converters, oscillators, antennas). Test Bench Proficiency: Hands-on experience operating Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and standard RF test equipment. Clearance Eligibility: Must be a U.S. Citizen eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD Security Clearance. Nice-to-Haves (Preferred Experience): Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with a proven ability to present complex technical data clearly in design reviews and customer meetings. Strong multi-tasking and problem-solving skills suited for fast-paced, multi-program environments. What Success Looks Like Here Take ownership of complex system architectures from concept through validation. Connect engineering disciplines to ensure successful system integration. Communicate technical ideas clearly with engineers, customers, and program leadership. Anticipate technical risks early and develop practical, data-driven solutions. Balance technical excellence with program execution to help deliver products on schedule. Build trusted relationships across engineering teams and customer organizations. Working Conditions & Physical Demands Travel: Up to 10% domestic/international travel to support customer reviews, field tests, or supplier evaluations. Environment: Combined office and dynamic RF lab environment. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally. Why Join ThinKom? At ThinKom, you'll help develop innovative technologies that enable critical communications and advanced electromagnetic systems for Commercial Inflight Connectivity (IFC), High-Power Microwave (HPM), and Gateway & Defense SATCOM applications. You'll work alongside highly skilled engineers on technically challenging programs, influence product direction, and contribute to solutions that perform in some of the world's most demanding environments. We foster a collaborative culture that values innovation, technical excellence, continuous learning, and professional growth. If you're looking for an opportunity to solve complex engineering challenges while helping shape the future of advanced antenna and electromagnetic technologies, we encourage you to apply. Salary Range $90,000 - $125,000 ThinKom offer generous benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life, 401k Matching (4%), PTO, paid Holidays and Bonus Plan. ThinKom Solutions is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. ThinKom Solutions is a Drug and Alcohol-free working environment with a zero-tolerance policy