Satcom Payload Architect

Satcom Payload Architect

Open Cosmos

Harwell or Barcelona

What will you be doing?

As Satcom Payload Architect, you will own the end-to-end technical architecture of next-generation satellite payloads, ensuring that service intent, payload design, and satellite implementation are fully aligned.

You will:

• Define the complete payload architecture, with a strong focus on digitally processed, highly flexible, and scalable solutions for LEO constellations.
• Act as the technical bridge between Satcom Solutions (service definition) and Satellite Infrastructure (spacecraft delivery).
• Translate service-level requirements (throughput, latency, availability) into clear, verifiable technical specifications across all payload subsystems.
• Drive critical SWaP, cost, and risk trade-offs, maximising performance per kilogram and watt.
• Perform detailed microwave link budgets and cascade analysis, ensuring mission performance under worst-case operational and thermal conditions.
• Define architectures and requirements for:
  • High-gain, dynamic beamforming antennas (multi-beam reflectors or APAAs).
  • RF front-end chains (LNAs, SSPAs, frequency-agile converters).
  • Digitally regenerative payload processors supporting multiple waveforms (DVB-S2X/RCS2, 3GPP NTN).
  • High-data-rate inter-satellite links (optical and/or mmWave RF).
• Architect high-stability frequency generation and signal conditioning chains to support resilient PNT alternatives to GNSS.
• Define passive spectrum monitoring and geolocation capabilities to detect and localise RFI and jamming.
• Develop the payload Concept of Operations (CONOPS), including autonomous modes, reconfiguration strategies, and failure detection/recovery.
• Work closely with satellite bus teams to ensure payload thermal, mechanical, electrical, and data interfaces are fully aligned.
• In this role you will make decisions that directly shape what we build and fly.

What You’ll bring

• Deep understanding of satellite communication payload architectures, particularly for LEO systems.
• Strong systems engineering mindset, including requirements definition, flow-down and verification.
• In-depth knowledge of RF and microwave systems, including link budgets, noise figure, linearity and cascade effects.
• Confidence defining antenna systems, RF front ends, onboard processors and inter-satellite link architectures.
• Solid understanding of digital payloads, including DSP, SDR architectures and high-speed data conversion.
• Comfort making informed trade-offs across performance, SWaP, cost and risk.
• Familiarity with satellite communication standards such as DVB-S2X, DVB-RCS2 and 3GPP NTN.
• Ability to work across hardware and software boundaries within complex space systems.
• Capability to produce clear, structured and verifiable technical documentation.
• A pragmatic, collaborative approach with a strong sense of accountability.