MEO Payload System and Test Engineer (Long Beach, CA, US)

Senior Engineer, MEO Payload System and Test
US - CA - Long Beach
ProgramME & Role Description
MEO100 is the next generation of SES's Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites. It is designed to provide secure connectivity services for governments, enterprises, and commercial customers, while ensuring reliable high-speed broadband access to underserved regions.
We are seeking a highly skilled Payload Engineer to play a central role in the design, integration, testing, and optimisation of advanced satellite payloads. This position requires expertise in payload architecture, RF systems, digital on-board processing, inter-satellite links, DRA antennas, and end-to-end testing strategies-both on the ground and in orbit.
As part of an agile, international team, you will work closely with platform engineers, subsystem suppliers, and external partners to ensure mission success. Adaptability, strong collaboration skills, and a problem-solving mindset are essential to thrive in this role.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES / KEY RESULT AREAS
Payload Architecture & Design

• Translate payload architecture specifications into system and subsystem testing requirements.

• Drive payload calibration strategies and support overall performance optimisation.

• Define and manage all mechanical, electrical, and thermal interfaces for payload subsystems and equipment suppliers.

• Design, specify, and document payload harness interfaces with the platform and across test environments.

Testing & Integration

• Define payload and subsystem test requirements in line with the requirements matrix.

• Design and implement test setups across laboratory environments and project phases.

• Develop AIT (Assembly, Integration, and Test) procedures, including automated test frameworks.

• Lead testing strategies to maximise technical performance and cost efficiency.

• Establish and operate payload equipment in a comprehensive payload test facility.

• Perform hands-on hardware testing using VNAs, spectrum analysers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, multimeters, and power supplies.

COMPETENCIES

• In-depth knowledge of DRA-based satellite payloads, particularly digital beamforming architectures and applications.
• Strong understanding of S-parameters, AM/AM, AM/PM, noise figure, and spurious test techniques from L-band to V-band.
• Expertise in far-field antenna testing.
• Experience with GaN-based SSPAs, including detailed characterisation.
• Familiarity with on-board processing architectures and their trade-offs.
• Proven experience in payload integration, interface definition, and system-level trade studies.
• Solid grasp of spacecraft assembly, integration, and testing processes.
• Proficiency in modelling and simulation tools (MATLAB, Python, STK, CST, HFSS, ADS).
• Strong knowledge of payload interfaces, including antenna, RF, and electrical subsystems.
• Experience drafting technical documentation and managing complex system interfaces.
• Nice to have: Experience with NewSpace development approaches.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• High sensitivity to customers' needs and capacity to find solutions to complex technical problems and overcome obstacles to deliver a high quality of service

Qualifications Background and Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics.
• 8+ years of experience in satellite payload or systems engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in laboratory, field, or in-orbit testing of communications systems.
• Fluency in English; other languages are considered an asset

Other key requirements / comments

• Eligibility for National/NATO SECRET personnel security clearances is essential. Candidates must be prepared to undergo a security clearance procedure, as this position may require holding such clearance
• Willing to work at least 60% onsite from office
• Travel as required for project realization purposes

SES is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer