Direct Radiating Array Responsible Engineer, MEO (Betzdorf, LU)

Senior Engineer, Direct Radiating Array Responsible, MEO
ROLE DESCRIPTION
MEO100 is SES's next-generation Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite constellation, designed to deliver secure, high-speed broadband connectivity to governments, enterprises, and commercial users-eliminating connectivity dead zones worldwide.
To support this ambitious programme, SES is expanding its aerospace team and internalising a key part of the supply chain: the final integration of partner satellite platforms with SES's software-defined payloads, all within a state-of-the-art manufacturing and test facility.
We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking engineer to lead the development and delivery of the Ka-band Direct Radiating Antenna (DRA) subsystem for our satellite payloads. This role is central to the design, integration, qualification, and performance assurance of space-grade electronic hardware. You will be responsible for the technical execution of the DRA subsystem throughout the full satellite lifecycle.
The DRA subsystem includes a range of technologies-from analog high-frequency front ends (SSPAs, LNAs, filters) and power conditioning electronics to digital beamforming ASICs and high-speed SERDES. You will work closely with payload and satellite teams, with a strong focus on thermal design and system integration.
As a Senior Engineer, Direct Radiating Array Responsible, MEO, you will be in charge of :
Subsystem Ownership & Technical Leadership

• Act as the technical lead for the Ka-band DRA subsystem, including active antenna elements, RF distribution, and digital beamforming electronics.
• Define and manage subsystem requirements, interfaces, and performance budgets (e.g., EIRP, G/T, gain, noise figure, linearity).
• Lead technical reviews, risk assessments, and design decisions with internal and external stakeholders.

Electronic Hardware Integration

• Oversee integration and qualification of space-grade components, including:
• RF front-end electronics (SSPAs, LNAs)
• Radiating apertures (patches, horns)
• High-speed digital ASICs for beamforming
• Control and telemetry interfaces
• Ensure compliance with space environment constraints (thermal, radiation, EMC, mechanical).
• Coordinate with ASIC development teams and suppliers to ensure subsystem readiness.

Supplier & Project Management

• Manage subcontractors and suppliers for DRA hardware, ensuring technical alignment, schedule adherence, and quality assurance.
• Review and approve design documentation, test procedures, and qualification results.

Integration, Test & Verification

• Support payload integration and test campaigns, including:
• RF and digital performance validation
• Functional testing of beamforming ASICs and control units
• Troubleshooting during AIT and in-orbit commissioning

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with systems engineering, mechanical, thermal, and AIT teams to ensure subsystem compatibility and mission success.
• Contribute to payload-level trade-offs and system optimisation.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare technical documentation, compliance matrices, and customer deliverables.
• Present technical status and findings to internal leadership and external customers.

YOUR PROFILE

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in electronic equipment design, ideally in the space sector and/or involving high-frequency electronics.
• Fluency in English; additional languages are a plus.

COMPETENCIES

• RF & Microwave Hardware: Experience with space-qualified RF components (SSPAs, LNAs, filters, couplers) and RF chain performance validation.
• Electronic Space Hardware: Strong background in developing and qualifying electronic hardware for space, including thermal, mechanical, radiation, and EMC compliance.
• Ka-Band Payloads: Proven experience with Ka-band systems and RF performance metrics (EIRP, G/T, noise figure, linearity, isolation).
• Direct Radiating Antennas (DRA): Hands-on experience with active antenna systems, phased arrays, and electronically steerable beams.
• Digital Beamforming Systems: Familiarity with digital beamforming architectures and high-speed ASIC integration.
• Reliability & EEE Parts: Experience with reliability analysis (WCA, derating, failure propagation) and EEE parts selection for space.
• Project & Supplier Management: Skilled in managing suppliers, reviewing technical documentation, and ensuring quality and schedule compliance.
• Soft Skills:
• Strong leadership and ownership mindset
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving in complex systems
• Collaborative and team-oriented approach

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Must be eligible for a "SECRET" security clearance in accordance with Luxembourg law and EU/ESA/NATO equivalents.
• Willingness to work at least 60% onsite.
• Occasional travel required for project execution.

SES and its Affiliated Companies are committed to providing fair and equal employment opportunities to all. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
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