Communications Engineer (SATCOM and LOS)

About Us:

PMAT is an innovative small business founded with a passion for developing forward-leaning solutions from exceptional people that increase the mission's capability. We focus on designing and building impactful digital solutions that utilize modern cloud, data, and software concepts. Our passion is working on complex and progressive challenges such as edge platform computing, containerizing legacy platforms, distributed data platforms, or heterogeneous data analysis. We recruit, retain, and foster a team motivated to pursue passions, investigate new ways of doing things, and embody an innovative and entrepreneurial spirit. We believe in being curious about every element of a problem and experiment relentlessly. We foster continuous learning in an environment that encourages positive collaboration and expands our capabilities.

Above all else, we are passionate about delivering effective capabilities to and for the warfighter.

Whether you’re an experienced engineer or just beginning your career, you’ll work alongside experts who are committed to solving mission-critical problems. If you’re passionate about using your skills to make a real difference, apply today and become part of a team that’s shaping the future of defense technology!

About the Role:

PMAT has an immediate need for a Communications Engineer with Satellite Communications (SATCOM), Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (PLEO) and Line of Sight (LoS) expertise to support the Naval Operational Architecture (NOA) — the Navy’s mission-critical initiative to achieve seamless, distributed maritime operations. This role involves designing, integrating, and optimizing resilient satellite-based, PLEO & LoS communication systems that ensure secure and reliable warfighter connectivity across Navy and Joint forces. You will collaborate with stakeholders to help shape advanced communications infrastructure across land, sea, air, and space domains.

Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and integrate SATCOM, LoS, and RF other communication systems aligned with NOA and mission threads.


• Design communications architectures to support Autonomous Systems and Remote Autonomous Systems (RAS) in a meshed network architecture.


• Perform RF link budget analysis, spectrum management, and waveform configuration.


• Support configuration, testing, and validation of tactical and strategic SATCOM terminals.


• Collaborate across engineering and operational teams to ensure interoperability and cyber-resiliency.


• Support documentation development including Interface Control Documents (ICDs), test plans, system diagrams, and CONOPS.


• Evaluate emerging SATCOM/PLEO/LoS technologies and recommend scalable solutions for afloat and ashore Navy platforms.


• Troubleshoot network performance issues and support resolution of system-level deficiencies.


• Provide technical guidance and support during test events, risk reduction efforts, and fleet integration demonstrations.

Required Skills and Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in SATCOM, LEO, LoS and RF communications system engineering.


• Deep understanding of RF principles, waveform design, and satellite communications protocols.


• Hands-on experience with tactical and commercial SATCOM systems such as UHF, SHF, EHF and Starlink.


• Experience integrating and troubleshooting SATCOM modems, terminals, and encryption devices.


• Familiarity with associated analysis tools
  


• Knowledge of IP-based networks, routers, switches, and network configuration.


• Ability to author and review technical documentation including engineering diagrams and network architecture.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Experience supporting Navy programs.


• Understanding of naval afloat and shore-based communication systems.


• Familiarity with cybersecurity practices and compliance (RMF, STIGs).


• Certifications such as Security+, CCNA, or satellite-related credentials.


• Knowledge of secure communications and COMSEC implementation.

Education and Certification Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field (Master’s preferred).


• Relevant certifications (Security+, Network+, or SATCOM industry certifications) are a plus.

Citizenship and Clearance Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship required.


• Active Secret clearance required; TS/SCI preferred.

Location:

• Onsite, San Diego, CA.


• This position may require travel to places within and outside the contiguous United States which could include remote or isolated sites. You may be required to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time.

Work Environment:

On-site support may be required at NAVWAR, PMAT offices, or DoD facilities. Occasional travel for fleet exercises, integration events, or collaboration with stakeholder organizations may be necessary.

PMAT is an equal-opportunity employer . We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.

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