Digital Communication and Signal Processing Engineer
The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
Job Summary
Main-mission communication satellites, wideband links, command and telemetry, and terrestrial networks, along with their enabling technologies, are the domain of the Communication Technologies and Engineering Division. The division comprises all aspects, from architectures to implementation; our engineers work directly with corporate customers to ensure robust and resilient communications.
The Aerospace Corporation’s Digital Communications Implementation Department uses software-defined radio and FPGA technology to design digital transceivers and prototypes of novel DSP algorithms. Since we conduct our own research and development this position could be a great opportunity for self-development and innovation.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Design and prototyping of digital communication systems, GNSS receivers and/or alternative navigation techniques using software-defined radio
- Simulation and analysis of various systems and algorithms
- Research novel signal processing algorithms, RF signal classification, and spectrum sharing
- Implementation of software and FPGA hardware for various sensors and communication systems deployed on small-form-factor satellites (CubeSats)
- Candidate will work on a diverse set of projects. It is very important to be hands-on, willing to learn and be comfortable in working in an environment with engineers of diverse backgrounds and expertise.
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelors from an accredited university in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or another related field
- Knowledge of digital signal processing, digital communications, GNSS/GPS positioning and navigation.
- Proficiency with one or more of the following: C/C++, Python, VHDL/Verilog, Matlab
- Minimum of 4 years of professional working engineering experience. An advanced degree might be used in lieu of working experience
- Experience troubleshooting digital hardware designs in the laboratory
- Solid written and verbal communication skills
- This position requires the eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
- Masters from an accredited university in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or another related field
- Experience using GNURadio, USRPs, and the RFNoC framework
- Experience implementing designs on FPGAs in Vivado using VHDL/Verilog
- Experience programming GPUs, hardware acceleration, process parallelization
- Experience with DSP algorithm design and implementation
- Experience with RF lab equipment (spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, oscilloscopes)
- Experience using Linux, Real-Time operating systems and Atlassian tools (Git…)
- Experience with Machine Learning
- Experience with various types of hardware interfaces (I2C, SPI, AXI etc.)
Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
- Relocation assistance
- Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.