Quantum Leap is the leading technology services company focused on providing operationally focused solutions for select clientele within the United States Government (USG). We offer exciting, important work, a team-oriented culture and growth opportunities.
We are seeking a Systems Architect/Engineer – Space & Ground Communications to design, integrate, and deliver advanced SATCOM and space-ground communication solutions. This position requires experience in systems engineering, RF communications, and software/network integration, and will play a key role in developing mission-critical architectures supporting both government and commercial space operations.
Responsibilities:
Systems Architecture & Design
· Lead the design and development of end-to-end SATCOM and space-ground systems.
· Lead requirements elicitation, decomposition, and traceability for complex systems.
· Create and maintain system architecture documentation, interface control documents (ICDs), and verification matrices.
· Conduct trade studies to evaluate performance, cost, and feasibility.
· Ensure seamless interoperability across RF, network, and software domains.
Integration, Verification & Validation (IV&V)
· Oversee system integration across hardware, software, and network components.
· Develop and execute verification and validation (V&V) test plans to ensure compliance with requirements.
· Support test campaigns, troubleshooting, and performance validation.
RF & Communications Engineering
· Provide subject matter expertise in RF communications (L, S, C, X, Ku, Ka bands), SDR, and link analysis.
· Support link budgets, waveform analysis, and spectrum management.
· Architect IP-based networking solutions for SATCOM and terrestrial transport, including routing, QoS, and network security.
Software, Network, and Automation Support
· Collaborate with software teams to integrate signal processing, control interfaces, and automation.
· Support development and verification of Network Management Systems (NMS) such as Zabbix, Viacontrol, or OpsCenter.
· Contribute to DevSecOps and cloud-based architectures (Docker, Kubernetes, hybrid environments).
Technical Leadership & Collaboration
· Partner with program management and customers throughout the system lifecycle.
· Lead and support technical presentations, proposals, and R&D efforts.
Required Skills & Qualifications
· 5+ years of experience in RF, SATCOM, or space systems engineering required.
· Strong background in systems design, integration, and requirements management.
· Experience with shell scripting for automation or testing (Python, C++, Bash).
· Familiarity with Linux, virtualization, and IP networking.
· Experience with software-defined radios (SDR) and satellite communications standards (CCSDS, MIL-STD).
Professional Attributes
· Strong systems thinking and problem-solving ability.
· Excellent communication, collaboration, and presentation skills.
· Capable of working independently and leading architectural decisions.
· Passion for innovation in space and ground communication technologies.
· Experience with TT&C, mission control, or ground operations software.
· Experience integrating COTS and custom software for mission control or operations systems preferred.
· Proven knowledge of containerized environments and DevSecOps pipelines.
· Prior experience supporting DoD or Intelligence Community space programs.
· Ability to work full-time in our Colorado Springs, CO office
Education and Clearance
· B.S. in relevant field with 5+ years of experience (or equivalent).
· Active U.S. security clearance (TS/SCI preferred).
· Requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)
Compensation and Benefits
We seek the best-and-brightest professionals at all levels so offer highly competitive compensation and an excellent benefits package. Company-sponsored benefits include: 6% 401(k) company match with immediate vesting; educational assistance up to $7,000 per year, 100% health care premium subsidy for employees (75% for dependents); Anthem medical, Guardian dental, life and disability coverage; 3 weeks vacation; 2 weeks sick leave, and 11 holidays.
Quantum Leap is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://www.ql-research.com/
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $150,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- RF, SATCOM, or space systems engineering: 5 years (Preferred)
Location:
- Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (Preferred)
Security clearance:
Work Location: In person
