Payload Architect for Analog & Digital Payloads (Space)

TL;DR

Payload Architect (Space/Telecom): Designing and developing analog and digital telecom payloads for LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites with an accent on high-frequency technology and antenna systems. Focus on link budget analyses, digital beamforming, and the full satellite project lifecycle from phase 0 to phase E.

Location: Hybrid; based in Bremen or Weßling bei München, Germany

Company

One of the leading European space companies specializing in high-tech solutions for satellites and human space flight.

What you will do

• Develop analog and digital telecom payloads for various orbits based on customer specifications.
• Perform link budget analyses to determine overall system capacity and aggregated data rates.
• Create comprehensive technical documentation across all satellite project phases (0, A, B, C/D, and E).
• Prepare and execute customer PDRs, CDRs, and environmental tests in TVAC and CATR.
• Manage payload RF settings and coordinate In Orbit Test (IOT) RF tests.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for the payload throughout the satellite's lifetime.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in RF, communication, antenna, or electrotechnic engineering.
• Deep understanding of high-frequency technology (TWTs, LNAs, filters) across P to Q/V-Bands.
• Knowledge of DVB-S, DVB-S2 RCS standards and interest in 5G/6G.
• Proficiency in digital communications, SDR technologies, and digital antenna beamforming.
• Strong knowledge of English is required; German is considered a plus.

Nice to have

• Experience with optical communications technology (ISL terminals).
• Previous professional experience in systems engineering.

Culture & Benefits

• Work-life balance featuring flexible hours, 30 days vacation, and sabbatical options.
• Hybrid work model with the possibility of mobile work abroad.
• Financial benefits including a 13th-month salary and company pension plan.
• Extensive professional development via training courses and German language lessons.
• Comprehensive family support, including kindergarten subsidies and paid child sickness days.
• On-site perks such as a high-standard company restaurant with meal subsidies.