> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1726590-mission-architect-space-systems](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1726590-mission-architect-space-systems). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Mission Architect - Space Systems - **Company:** ECHOSTAR - **Location:** Germantown, MD, United States - **Salary:** $200,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Satcom, Computer Networking Systems, SDN Network - **Published:** July 11, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.oriontalent.com/search-jobs/career/11626620/mission-architect-space-systems-maryland-md-germantown ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in engineering, aerospace, or a related field * 15+ years of relevant work and/or military experience * Must hold an active U.S. government security clearance at TS or TS/SCI, * Existing network of senior members of the USSF, NRO, DISA, COCOMs and other Armed Services and IC entities * Prior experience with the U.S. DOW/IC entities, with a deep understanding of and experience working programs involving space/ground-enabled connectivity and networking across all domains (space, air, sea, land, cyber) * Prior experience and deep knowledge of National Security Space (NSS) missions and the Defense Telecommunications sector to include: SATCOM and satellite space/ground systems, wireless (5G, mesh, etc), and software-defined networking * Proven experience in complex global technology partnerships with track record of delivering revenue growth through partners * Proven cross-functional communication skills (verbal, written, visual) across multiple levels of a large, matrixed organization * Strong analytical skills and ability to take large amounts of data and synthesize into actionable recommendations * Demonstrated strategic thinking when presented with complex and ambiguous challenges * Experience building and delivering presentations to executive-level audiences and teams, with an eye for executive-level polish and meticulous attention to detail in all deliverables * Ability to teach and mentor teammates to improve overall team performance ## Description EchoStar has an exciting opportunity in our Hughes Network Systems division for a Director level Mission Architect supporting our Defense and Government Solutions Division (DGSD). This role will oversee space/ground-enabled mission architectures across its portfolio of programs serving the U.S. Department of War (DoW), Intelligence (IC), and mission partners. This role draws on Hughes' 50-year legacy in satellite communications to connect commercial innovation with mission-critical defense capabilities of national security significance., The individual in this role will serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in space/ground-enabled connectivity and networking across all domains (space, air, sea, land, cyber). DoW and IC related system CONOPs and mission execution knowledge is key to assist with developing an end-to-end solution for our government customers. This role will be 75% focused on new business efforts and 25% supporting active program efforts in an SME capacity to help drive organic growth. The role will involve close collaboration with business development, external customers, engineering and other subject matter experts to shape the feasibility of new missions and architect existing missions. This position is primarily located at our Gaithersburg, MD office, though travel will be required., * Support front-end business development efforts for Hughes' hardware, software, and service offerings within the US DOW / IC markets, including customer engagement, white papers, proposals, and studies * Collaboratively lead interdisciplinary teams through advanced, complex technical projects for the design, development, integration, and testing of customer solutions, including developing concept of operations (CONOPs), mission requirements, and system architectures * Maintain deep customer awareness and develop strong relationships with government customers, satellite space/ground, launch and aircraft manufacturers and traditional defense contractors, vendors, partners, and key stakeholders * Leverage knowledge of satellite and terrestrial communication systems to guide product design, development, and integration; collaborate closely with R&D and engineering teams to ensure technical feasibility and alignment with market needs * Leverage DoW and IC operational mission knowledge to develop relevant architectures and solutions to meet government mission needs * Evaluate emerging technologies, conduct market research, and assess competitive products to inform product selection and ensure our offerings remain innovative and competitive * Work closely with Division's senior leadership team to define and execute near/long-term strategic growth initiatives * Partner with program execution teams as they mature their solutions and to identify and capture adjacent organic growth opportunities * Ability to travel domestically up to 50%; international travel possible on a limited basis ## Related Videos - [A Hitchhikers Guide to Container Security - Automotive Edition 2024](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1119-a-hitchhikers-guide-to-container-security-automotive-edition-2024) - [Successful talent development: A joint journey of executives and talents](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1002-successful-talent-development-a-joint-journey-of-executives-and-talents) - [Distributed search under the hood](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/256-distributed-search-under-the-hood) - [Why Your Best Mediors Never Become Seniors (And How to Fix It)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2108-why-your-best-mediors-never-become-seniors-and-how-to-fix-it) - [Crew Management System for Airlines: Plan duties for pilots & flight attendants worldwide](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1444-crew-management-system-for-airlines-plan-duties-for-pilots-flight-attendants-worldwide) - [Building the Nervous System of AI - Michael Kagan (NVIDIA)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2133-building-the-nervous-system-of-ai-michael-kagan-nvidia) ## Related Articles - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Dev Digest 134 - Where pixels sing?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/477-dev-digest-134-where-pixels-sing) - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Top 6 Hackathons for Developers in 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/263-top-6-hackathons-for-developers-in-2023) - [Events like RSAC Get You CISOs. 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