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Engineering

Principal Systems Engineer

Date
04 September 2025
Location
USA
Company Description

Intellian Technologies

Intellian is the world’s leading provider of satellite antennas and terminals, with a mission to empower connectivity so connectivity can empower the world. We are driven by a passion for innovation and agile responsiveness to customer needs. As the crucial link between satellite networks and millions of people on Earth, Intellian’s leading technology and antennas empower global connectivity across oceans and continents, organizations, and communities. Strategic thinking, an obsession with quality, and a proven ability to deliver enable Intellian to invent for the future, creating mutual success for partners and customers as the world’s connectivity needs evolve.

Job Position

Principal Systems Engineer

Job Type

Full Time

Prime Purpose

Intellian Technology is seeking a Principal Satellite Systems Engineer to be the central technical leader for our advanced User Terminal (UT) products. This isn't just a design role; you are the linchpin that connects customer needs with cutting-edge technology. You will define the very framework of our systems, making critical trade-off decisions on everything from Ku/Ka-band phased array chipsets and antenna architectures to 5G NR-NTN modem integration.

Working at the heart of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team, you will have the ownership to shape our hardware, firmware, and software architectures. If you are a systems thinker who excels at translating complex requirements into elegant, high-performance products, this is your opportunity to drive the future of satellite connectivity from concept to productization.

Top Four Skills to Be Successful in This Role:

  • Experience in satcom terminal RF systems design (specification, architecture, test plan).
  • Experience in satcom 5G NR-NTN modem and waveforms.
  • Experience in RF Rx and Tx gain lineup.
  • Proficiency in requirement and specification capture tools such as Jama, Helix, etc.
Responsibilities

How You Will Make an Impact

  • Define User Terminal (UT) systems architectures and flow-down formal requirements and specifications to sub-systems.
  • Analyze and conduct design tradeoffs of various UT architectures, leveraging RF and performance simulation to support key decisions.
  • Analyze and perform design tradeoffs for Ku and Ka band phased array chipsets and array antennas.
  • Support the requirement definition of Ku and Ka band phased array chipsets.
  • Define cost-efficient and rapid production calibration methodologies and techniques for Ku and Ka band phased arrays.
  • Develop requirements from the top-level down to the sub-assembly, coordinating the creation of coverage and test plan release management.
  • Engage proactively with internal and external customers on systems’ hardware and software architectures and implementation.
  • Document requirements and ensure they are successfully flowed down to various engineering functional teams.
  • Assist in focusing internal and external engineering efforts across the organization to achieve project goals.
  • Ensure delivered work meets all technical, functional, performance, regulatory, and business requirements.
  • Support in-field testing and validation of various User Terminal systems.
Qualifications

Experience

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) or equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master's or Ph.D. is highly preferred.
  • 10+ years in a SW/HW development environment, with at least 5 recent years in a senior architectural or systems engineering role.
  • 10+ years of experience in complex telecommunication and/or satellite communication systems development.
  • Direct experience with satellite over-the-air (OTA) communication field trials and system validation.

Technical Skills

  • 10+ years of experience with RF systems, digital communications, and communication theory.
  • Expertise with formal requirement management tools and methodologies (e.g., Jama, Jira, DOORS).
  • 7+ years of programming and modeling skill with MATLAB/Python and C/C++.
  • 7+ years of experience with computer networks and TCP/IP protocols.
  • Strong familiarity with satellite communication theory and phased array design principles.
  • Proven debugging skills for systems integration, from the RF front-end to the baseband.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams in a collaborative environment.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for documenting requirements and presenting technical concepts.
  • Meticulous attention to detail with a focus on ensuring requirements are met from end to end.

Work Environment

  • This role operates in a professional office and lab environment.
  • Ability to travel up to 20%, depending on project phases and needs.

Total Rewards & Benefits:

  • We are pleased to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' success and well-being.
  • Flexible time off and paid company holidays to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  • An annual performance-based bonus program to recognize and reward your contributions.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
  • Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage for your peace of mind.
  • A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a valuable employer safe harbor contribution.
  • Support for your career growth through ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Free, confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering counseling, financial resources, and legal support for life's challenges.
  • A private Wellness Room available for nursing mothers and for personal well-being needs.
  • A strong company culture fostered through employee social events, Lunch & Learns, and team outings.
  • Convenient access to a free on-site gym with full locker rooms and shower facilities.
  • Enjoy our fully stocked kitchen with complimentary snacks, fresh fruit, and a wide assortment of hot and cold beverages.

Pay Transparency

The estimated salary range for this role is $170,000 - $220,000 Actual compensation will vary based on experience, education, and qualifications. Additional elements such as bonuses may apply depending on company and individual performance.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Intellian, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

How to Apply

Apply on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4254135504/?capColoOverride=true