AST SpaceMobile · 1 day ago
Senior Principal SATCOMRAN Architect (Tactical Communications)
Lanham, Maryland, United States
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
10+ years expAST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices. They are seeking a Senior Principal SATCOM/RAN Architect to lead the design and integration of next-generation tactical communications systems for defense programs, focusing on architecting hybrid networks that connect space-based assets with terrestrial networks.
Information TechnologySatellite CommunicationTelecommunications
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Architect end-to-end tactical communications systems integrating satellite backhaul (e.g., MUOS) with terrestrial wireless networks, including 5G RAN and ad-hoc mesh radios
Lead technical design and optimization of waveforms, protocols, and network architectures for secure, low-latency communications in challenging operational environments
Serve as the technical authority in customer-facing engagements, presenting system architectures, conducting trade studies, and translating mission requirements into technical solutions
Provide technical leadership to internal and external engineering teams, reviewing designs, algorithms, and hardware/software integration plans for tactical systems
Conduct system-level analysis, including link budgets, RF propagation modeling, interference mitigation, and performance assessments for hybrid space-ground networks
Drive adoption of Open RAN principles and other open architecture standards to ensure interoperability and flexibility in defense solutions
Contribute to RFI/RFP responses, proposal development, and strategic planning for new defense communications initiatives
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Communications Engineering, or a related field; master's or Ph.D. preferred
A minimum of 10+ years in tactical communications engineering or systems architecture, with a proven track record at a senior level in the defense RF/SATCOM industry
Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and customer briefings
Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of all documentation and deliverables
Strategic thinking and ability to lead complex technical discussions with senior stakeholders
RF modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB)
Network design and optimization tools
Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods
Occasional travel may be required for customer engagements and system-level reviews
Preferred
Deep expertise in military SATCOM systems and waveforms (e.g., MUOS, WGS)
Strong background in cellular and wireless technologies, including 5G architecture, Radio Access Networks (RAN), and mesh networking (e.g., MANET)
Experience with Open RAN standards (e.g., O-RAN 7.2x split) and software-defined radio (SDR) principles
Active U.S. Security Clearance required
Company
AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile is a space-based broadband cellular network company for unmodified mobile devices.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$3.92BKey Investors
Trinity CapitalAtlas Credit Partners
2025-10-22Post Ipo Equity· $157.22M
2025-10-21Post Ipo Debt· $1.15B
2025-10-07Post Ipo Equity· $800M
Leadership Team
Shanti Gupta
Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
Andrew Johnson
Member Board of Directors
Recent News
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