Direct Radiating Array Responsible Engineer, MEO

ROLE DESCRIPTION

MEO100 is SES’s next-generation Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite constellation, designed to deliver secure, high-speed broadband connectivity to governments, enterprises, and commercial users—eliminating connectivity dead zones worldwide.

To support this ambitious programme, SES is expanding its aerospace team and internalising a key part of the supply chain: the final integration of partner satellite platforms with SES’s software-defined payloads, all within a state-of-the-art manufacturing and test facility.

We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking engineer to lead the development and delivery of the Ka-band Direct Radiating Antenna (DRA) subsystem for our satellite payloads. This role is central to the design, integration, qualification, and performance assurance of space-grade electronic hardware. You will be responsible for the technical execution of the DRA subsystem throughout the full satellite lifecycle.

The DRA subsystem includes a range of technologies—from analog high-frequency front ends (SSPAs, LNAs, filters) and power conditioning electronics to digital beamforming ASICs and high-speed SERDES. You will work closely with payload and satellite teams, with a strong focus on thermal design and system integration.

As a Senior Engineer, Direct Radiating Array Responsible, MEO, you will be in charge of : 

Subsystem Ownership & Technical Leadership

• Act as the technical lead for the Ka-band DRA subsystem, including active antenna elements, RF distribution, and digital beamforming electronics.
• Define and manage subsystem requirements, interfaces, and performance budgets (e.g., EIRP, G/T, gain, noise figure, linearity).
• Lead technical reviews, risk assessments, and design decisions with internal and external stakeholders.

Electronic Hardware Integration

• Oversee integration and qualification of space-grade components, including:
• RF front-end electronics (SSPAs, LNAs)
• Radiating apertures (patches, horns)
• High-speed digital ASICs for beamforming
• Control and telemetry interfaces
• Ensure compliance with space environment constraints (thermal, radiation, EMC, mechanical).
• Coordinate with ASIC development teams and suppliers to ensure subsystem readiness.

Supplier & Project Management

• Manage subcontractors and suppliers for DRA hardware, ensuring technical alignment, schedule adherence, and quality assurance.
• Review and approve design documentation, test procedures, and qualification results.

Integration, Test & Verification

• Support payload integration and test campaigns, including:
• RF and digital performance validation
• Functional testing of beamforming ASICs and control units
• Troubleshooting during AIT and in-orbit commissioning

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with systems engineering, mechanical, thermal, and AIT teams to ensure subsystem compatibility and mission success.
• Contribute to payload-level trade-offs and system optimisation.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare technical documentation, compliance matrices, and customer deliverables.
• Present technical status and findings to internal leadership and external customers.

YOUR PROFILE

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in electronic equipment design, ideally in the space sector and/or involving high-frequency electronics.
• Fluency in English; additional languages are a plus.

COMPETENCIES

• RF & Microwave Hardware: Experience with space-qualified RF components (SSPAs, LNAs, filters, couplers) and RF chain performance validation.
• Electronic Space Hardware: Strong background in developing and qualifying electronic hardware for space, including thermal, mechanical, radiation, and EMC compliance.
• Ka-Band Payloads: Proven experience with Ka-band systems and RF performance metrics (EIRP, G/T, noise figure, linearity, isolation).
• Direct Radiating Antennas (DRA): Hands-on experience with active antenna systems, phased arrays, and electronically steerable beams.
• Digital Beamforming Systems: Familiarity with digital beamforming architectures and high-speed ASIC integration.
• Reliability & EEE Parts: Experience with reliability analysis (WCA, derating, failure propagation) and EEE parts selection for space.
• Project & Supplier Management: Skilled in managing suppliers, reviewing technical documentation, and ensuring quality and schedule compliance.
• Soft Skills:
• Strong leadership and ownership mindset
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving in complex systems
• Collaborative and team-oriented approach

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Must be eligible for a “SECRET” security clearance in accordance with Luxembourg law and EU/ESA/NATO equivalents.
• Willingness to work at least 60% onsite.
• Occasional travel required for project execution.