Senior Payload Engineer

TL;DR

Senior Payload Engineer (Satellite Comms): Architectural design and optimization of RF and optical communication payloads for GEO small satellites with an accent on system-level parameters, component analysis, and integration. Focus on budgeting mass/power/performance, supplier management, AIT activities, and resolving cross-subsystem issues for mission success.

Location: Based at HQ in Helsinki, Finland. Relocation to Helsinki supported.

Company

hirify.global develops software-defined, intelligent, interconnected satellite platforms for next-generation space applications, integrating in-house software with best-in-class hardware.

What you will do

• Lead technical design of telecom payloads including RF and optical architectures for Small Satcom projects.
• Budget and track key payload parameters like mass, power dissipation, and performance.
• Interface with satellite subsystem teams and suppliers to define designs, SoWs, and AIT requirements.
• Analyze components from passive RF units to digital processors and optical elements.
• Develop test specifications, procedures, and perform subsystem AIT at all levels.
• Solve integration problems across subsystems and document architecture and analyses.

Requirements

• Fluent English (written and spoken).
• 5-10+ years in GEO comms satellites with payload system architecture, requirements flow-down, and analyses.
• Experience designing/implementing RF equipment (SSPAs, TWTs, phased arrays, filters, etc.) and digital processors.
• Masters or PhD in relevant field; expertise in system modeling tools (EM, antenna sim, coding).
• Ability to optimize performance, manage partners, and handle full project lifecycle.
• Autonomous, proactive, team-oriented working style.

Nice to have

• Ground segment experience.
• Full lifecycle space implementation knowledge.

Culture & Benefits

• Challenging, rewarding environment where ideas are valued and continuous improvement is encouraged.
• Ambitious, diverse team from classic and new space with shared mindset and humor.
• Inclusive, dynamic culture focused on equality, diversity, and innovation.
• Support for relocation and integration into Finnish society.