Systems AI&T - Satellite Payload STE Engineer

As a Systems AI&T Payload STE Engineer, you will play a pivotal, versatile role bridging test planning, interface architecture, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and hands-on payload validation. Working within our dynamic Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) team, you will contribute directly to developing, checking out, and deploying Special Test Equipment (STE) for state-of-the-art satellite communications payloads. The day-to-day

• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, partnering daily with mechanical, software, and systems engineers.
• Coordinate test planning, facility readiness, interface compatibility, and campaign schedules with external subcontractors, satellite bus providers, and hardware vendors.
• Develop and maintain detailed test matrices, operational cross-connect routing grids, and requirements verification cross-reference matrices (VCRMs).
• Design and update Interface Control Documents (ICDs), rack elevation drawings, RF switch matrix schematics, and interconnect block diagrams using Microsoft Visio, Draw.io, or equivalent diagramming tools.
• Proactively leverage AI engineering tools and workflow automation to accelerate technical documentation, summarize complex test data, and optimize testing logistics.
• Support the physical build, checkout, and hands-on integration of customized STE test racks, coaxial switch drawers, and test interface fixtures.
• Execute standardized test procedures across cleanroom, thermal vacuum (TVAC), vibration, and anechoic chamber test environments, supporting senior engineers with anomaly investigations and data collection.
• Ensure test configurations and hardware interfaces strictly adhere to aerospace safety protocols, ESD standards, and flight hardware handling procedures.
• Travel (approximately 20%) to subcontractor facilities and environmental test sites during active qualification campaigns.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical STEM field.
• 1-3 years of professional experience in integration & test (AI&T), systems engineering, RF/hardware test, or technical engineering coordination.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and work effectively within cross-disciplinary engineering teams (interfacing with mechanical, software, systems, and test disciplines).
• Experience in test matrix mapping, test planning, or requirements verification processes.
• Proficiency in creating technical schematics, block diagrams, or Interface Control Documents (ICDs) using Microsoft Visio, Draw.io, or similar drafting tools.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with test plans, procedures, and verification processes.
• Strong collaborative communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to coordinate effectively with external subcontractors, vendors, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with or strong enthusiasm for adopting modern AI tools (such as LLM assistants and generative AI tools) to enhance productivity, optimize workflows, and streamline documentation.
• Ability to travel up to 20% to support off-site campaign testing at environmental facilities (TVAC, shaker, and anechoic chambers).
• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance.

What will help you on the job

• Scripting capabilities in Python, MATLAB, or C/C++ for test data post-processing, instrument automation (PyVISA/SCPI), or analysis (preferred, but not required).
• Familiarity with standard RF/microwave laboratory test instrumentation (e.g., vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, or power meters).
• Exposure to satellite communications payloads, space vehicle subsystems, or aerospace testing standards.
• Experience with satellite command and telemetry architectures or tools like OpenC3 COSMOS.
• Hands-on exposure to spacecraft environmental testing campaigns (Thermal Vacuum / TVAC, Vibration Dynamics, or Anechoic EMI/EMC).

$95,000.00 - $149,500.00 / annually. For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $117,500.00- $176,500.00/ annually

At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat’s comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits. EEO Statement

At Viasat, the work you do helps people stay connected in ways that matter, from everyday moments to critical missions across air, land, sea, and space.

We’re a place for people who are curious, bold, and motivated by meaningful work. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to make an impact, explore new possibilities, and grow your career in ways that align with your interests and goals. When you’re ready to take on something new, you’ll find leaders who support your development and help you turn your ambition into action. What you’ll do