Senior Engineer - Payload Systems

Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Established in 2024 following the successful merger between Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42’s global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. 

Our vision is to pioneer beyond today for humanity to experience a better tomorrow. Space42 challenges traditional approaches with advanced AI and cutting-edge satellite technology, making space more accessible and redefining how data from space can be used on Earth. We aim to achieve this by connecting people to rewire potential, informing decisions to reimagine impact and enabling action to redefine tomorrow. 

For more information visit: www.space42.ai, follow us on X and Instagram @Space42ai

ROLE PURPOSE

In your role as Senior Engineer - Payload Systems as a key member of the Space Segment Engineering department at Space42, you will lead the design, development, and integration of satellite payload systems while driving innovation in space technology solutions. Reporting to the Principal Systems Engineer, you will provide engineering support to Space42 Operations in all aspects related to payload systems of the Space42 fleet. You will work closely with stakeholders, including platform systems, ground systems, and operations teams, to ensure seamless coordination and optimal system performance.

• Lead technical design and development of satellite payload systems, ensuring alignment with mission requirements and industry standards.
• Support payload performance analysis, establishing link budgets to size the payload for new missions and assess trade-offs between EIRP, bandwidth, G/T and C/I.
• Assist in outlining requirements related to the communications payload and TT&C specification, testing the same for the Space Segment.
• Develop and validate payload specifications, performance requirements, and interface control documents.
• Oversee integration and testing of payload systems, including environmental testing and performance verification.
• Participate in the requirement gathering, specification authoring, as well as the procurement phases (RFI, RFP, and BAFO), technical exchanges, evaluations and negotiations with bidders.
• As part of Space Segment Engineering, which is the Design Authority, support the PMO team on payload-related program milestones, providing guidance on Payload and TT&C related issues, including any changes, modifications or waivers affecting the payload.
• Support future mission studies as necessary, engaging with the Space-tech Industry when required.
• Keep up to date with technical advancements in the industry and keep a watch on current capabilities and technology roadmaps of the various payload component manufacturers.
• Provide payload engineering support to Space42 fleet of spacecraft, ensuring lessons learned are properly recorded and documented for future programs.   

• BSc Communications Engineering degree.
• Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years in the satellite industry.
• Demonstrated experience in radiofrequency applications and link budgets.
• Demonstrated experience in technical follow-up of satellite payload engineering activities.
• Exceptional skills in digital processing, beamforming, flexible payloads/software-defined satellites, Advanced Excel/VBA and/or Python.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Experience in the design and building of LEO constellations.
• Space systems certification (e.g., INCOSE SE Certification) desirable.
• Experience with CubeSat or small satellite missions.
• Knowledge of ECSS or NASA standards.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and CAD software.

OUR BENEFITS & PERKS

• Competitive compensation packages and comprehensive medical insurance to support you and your family.
• Wellbeing-focused initiatives and resources, designed to enhance your personal and professional life.
• Flexibility to balance work and life, with hybrid work options tailored to role requirements.
• Access to exclusive discount programs, offering savings across various lifestyle and leisure experiences across the UAE.

WHAT MAKES A GREAT FIT

If you are performance-driven and possess an inquisitive mind with the agility to navigate ambiguity, you will thrive here. At the heart of the Space42 community is a bias for action and a passion for developing innovative, efficient space services through AI-driven smart solutions that drive technological advancements and create a better tomorrow.