Auria is looking to hire a Chief Engineer, Ground to Satellite Architecture to support the Joint Antenna Marketplace. This role is remote, supporting end-to-end systems engineering, architecture design, technical strategy, and cross-functional coordination with internal teams, government stakeholders, and commercial partners for satellite-to-ground terminal communications systems.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO:
Serve as the technical authority on satellite communication systems, focusing on space-to-ground and ground-to-space links. Lead the architecture design and systems integration of communications terminals, including RF, baseband, and digital subsystems. Define and manage system-level requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), and verification plans. Oversee link budget analysis, modulation/coding strategies, and spectrum usage. Ensure compliance with international and national communication standards and regulations (e.g., ITU, FCC, DoD STDs). Collaborate with payload engineers, mission planners, and ground segment teams to ensure holistic mission support. Conduct design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) and support test campaigns, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL)simulations and live-link validation. Guide risk management, technical trade studies, and system optimization efforts. Provide technical mentoring to engineering teams and foster a culture of innovation, quality, and mission success.
WHAT THE TEAM REQUIRES:
- Mission-Driven Professional: Collaborative contributor motivated by the opportunity to develop cutting-edge solutions that protect and serve both the nation and the world. May require domestic/international travel (up to 20%) to partner sites, launch facilities, and test ranges.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred).
- Minimum 12 years of experience in satellite communications systems, with at least 5 years in a technical leadership role.
- Deep expertise in RF engineering, modulation techniques, antenna systems, and digital signal processing. Experience with ground station systems, including tracking antennas, phased array systems, RF front-ends, modems, and data distribution.
- Proficiency in communication protocols (e.g., CCSDS, DVB-S2/S2X, SGLS, TCP/IP over satellite).
- Familiarity with satellite mission types including LEO, MEO, and GEO operations.
- Strong understanding of link budget tools (e.g., STK, MATLAB, custom scripts) and RF simulation environments.
- Proven track record in space mission development lifecycle, including design, integration, test, and operations.
WHAT THE TEAM PREFERS:
- Experience with secure or classified satellite communications (e.g., military SATCOM, NATO, DoD programs).
- Knowledge of optical communications (lasercom) or advanced waveform development.
- Familiarity with software-defined radios (SDRs) and ground terminal virtualization.
- Experience with agile or DevSecOps engineering environments.
- Software development experience with C++ and python
PAY TRANSPARENCY: The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications - skills, education & experience - and the position level. $175,000 - $220,000
APPLICATION DEADLINE: June 1, 2026
THE AURIA TEAM:
Auria is a provider of solutions and software in support of complex Space, National Security, and Cyber missions of federal, international, and commercial customers. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO our success is built on the excellence of diverse teams advancing innovative systems and operational software to strengthen our customers’ missions. With a distinguished track record and a spirit of relentless pursuit, and R&D, we set the pace for progress and execute every mission with the utmost precision.
Why You’ll Love Working at Auria
We believe our team does their best work when they are well-supported, financially secure, and have the freedom to balance life outside of the office.
Time for What Matters
- Generous & Growing PTO: Start with a substantial paid time off package that increases every year you’re with us.
- True Flexibility: Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8-to-5.
- 11 Paid Days Off: Enjoy 6 fixed company holidays plus 5 Floating Holidays to use whenever you choose.
Invested in Your Future
- 401(k) Match—Yours to Keep Instantly: We match up to 4% of your contributions. Both your contributions and the company match are yours from day one with no vesting wait-period.
- Industry-Leading Education Support: Level up with up to $12,000 annually for tuition and certifications. We don't just hire talent; we grow it.
Health & Peace of Mind
- Premium Healthcare, Lower Costs: High-quality medical plans paired with a Company-Sponsored HSA to help you save for the future.
- Fully Covered Life Insurance: Breathe easy with life insurance up to $50K provided at zero cost to you.
- Holistic Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial coaching, and more.
...and that’s just the beginning!
Auria is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action-Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.