RF Communication Systems Engineer – Space Systems

Position Overview

Oceaneering Space Systems (OSS) is a leader in developing, integrating, and applying innovative technologies for space, defense, and harsh environment applications. With a rich heritage serving NASA, the Department of Defense, and commercial markets, our expertise spans from aerospace and maritime services to offshore energy and beyond.

In this role as a RF Communications Systems Engineer, you will support NASA as an integral member of the Wireless Communication and Integration section on the JSC Engineering, Technology, and Science (JETS) II contract. You will work on communication and tracking sub-systems for Gateway and Exploration programs, ensuring our systems exceed performance standards. This position is ideal for an individual who is detail-oriented, committed to quality, and eager for continuous learning.

*International travel may be required. Straight time overtime, 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off), and/or 1 day of telework per week may be available.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a RF Communications Systems Engineer for the communications and tracking sub-systems of the Gateway and Exploration programs, a critical integration effort for a NASA initiative returning to the Moon.
• Write Radio Frequency communication subsystem level Interface Requirements Documents (IRD), Verification Requirements (VRs), and Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for spacecraft.
• Review IRDs, ICDs, and component level requirements for elements such as transponders, transceivers, and baseband processors.
• Evaluate link and network layer protocols implemented on communication systems based on CCSDS recommendations.
• Determine RF link performance and develop link budgets using analytical methods, analysis, and simulations.
• Participate in Systems Requirements Reviews (SRR), Preliminary & Critical Design Reviews, and Technical Interchange Meetings.
• Perform RF interference & compatibility analysis, Power Flux Density analysis, and Spectral analysis for space-based communication systems.
• Assist the NASA RF communication subsystem manager with reviews, meetings, and serve as the technical Point of Contact.
• Interface with other NASA centers, federal agencies, and commercial partners on behalf of JSC.
• Conduct analysis using software such as MATLAB, Simulink, and Excel.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications

• Education: BS Engineering degree from an accredited engineering school.
• Experience Required: Minimum of two (2) years of related experience.
• On location position – situational telework only.
• Must have completed college-level RF Communications coursework.
• Strong analytical skills in RF communications.
• In-depth knowledge of communication systems including digital modulation, demodulation, encoding/decoding, spread spectrum signals, signal detection, data formatting, and packetizing.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills with an ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with NASA processes.
• Knowledge of antennas, RF propagation, and network layers.
• Familiarity with CCSDS communication standards.
• Understanding of pseudo noise (PN) ranging, forward error correction techniques such as LDPC, radiometric calculations (range and range rate), and orbital dynamics.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++ and Python.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is required for this position.
• Must be able to successfully complete a U.S. government background investigation.
• Management retains the prerogative to select at any appropriate level for which the position is advertised.

Benefits & Perks

• Schedule: Straight time overtime, 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) and/or 1 day of telework per week may be available.
• Benefits: Comprehensive and competitive benefits package that may include Health and Wellness programs, Mental Health support, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability coverage, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.