Principal Systems Architect (Satellite Communications)

Location: London, United Kingdom. UK Citizenship or EU (27) Citizenship required.

Company

hirify.global delivers satellite communications and connectivity services for consumers, businesses, governments, militaries, and aviation customers.

What you will do

• Define system requirements, concepts, candidate architectures, and technology trade-offs for next-generation aviation connectivity services.
• Design and present integrated satellite communications solutions for UAV, Advanced Air Mobility, aircraft operations, and aviation safety requirements.
• Lead the integration of satcom systems onto UAV, AAM, and aircraft operations and safety platforms.
• Coordinate with hardware partners, terminal providers, avionics suppliers, aircraft manufacturers, and air traffic communication service providers.
• Develop integration documentation, CONOPS, validation approaches, design specifications, and operational readiness models.
• Plan and lead flight demonstrations, trials, proof-of-concept activities, field deployments, supplier implementation, verification, and change management.

Requirements

• Degree or equivalent experience in Electrical or Electronic Engineering.
• Advanced knowledge of satellite communications, including RF fundamentals, link budgets, modem and waveform concepts, and L-band, Ku-band, Ka-band, and NTN architectures.
• Technical proficiency in telecommunications, IP-based mobile networking, and satellite systems.
• Strong analytical capability for systems engineering and technology trade-offs.
• Hands-on experience with systems integration, deployment, or field operations.
• UK Citizenship or EU (27) Citizenship required.

Nice to have

• Experience with UAV, UAS, or Advanced Air Mobility platforms.
• Familiarity with airborne satcom terminals, especially low-SWaP solutions.
• Experience with flight testing, demonstrations, or field trials.
• Knowledge of software development and engineering techniques.
• Knowledge of aeronautical standards such as ARINC, RTCA, and Eurocae.

Culture & Benefits

• Work within a small Solutions Engineering team focused on aviation operations, safety, and Advanced Air Mobility services.
• Collaborate with international aviation, aerospace, avionics, satellite, and air traffic service partners.
• Represent hirify.global as a technical expert in supplier and industry meetings.
• Contribute to innovative connectivity and surveillance solutions for next-generation aviation.