Space Systems Chief Engineer

About the Opportunity

As of 2024, roughly 33% of humans still do not have internet access. The lack of infrastructure in many countries (as well as remote regions within developed countries) has limited fiber optic capabilities as well as other ground-based solutions. Private companies such as SpaceX using their Starlink constellation have begun the quest to solving this problem using a combination of Ka/Ku band systems (limited in bandwidth) and laser systems (limited in pointing capability) as a standalone solution, without a serious competitor.

To improve upon those systems, the terahertz band, positioned on the spectrum between Ka/Ku and laser frequencies, would offer a sweet-spot trade-off with increased bandwidth and more flexible pointing capabilities. This communication technology is being developed by Northeastern University’s Ultrabroadband-Nanonetworking Laboratory (UNLab) under the guidance of Dr. Josep Jornet. UNLab is a pioneer in terahertz communications, with many industry partners including the NASA Jet Propulsion laboratory (JPL), working towards the vision of launching terahertz CubeSat constellations capable of providing space-to-Earth & intersatellite links above 100 GHz.

This goal of this project is to take the first step in implementing this vision, through developing a CubeSat carrying a THz Software Defined Radio (SDR) as its primary payload. The primary mission objective is to demonstrate reliable communications above 100 GHz in space. A launch date was secured with the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative program, and the development of the terahertz radio payload is under development by NASA JPL.

To bring this vision to reality, the department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Ultrabroadband Nanonetworking Laboratory (UNLab), part of the Institute for the Wireless Internet of Things (WIoT), is seeking a Space Systems Chief Engineer to help launch the first ever terahertz communication satellite in space. The work involves the design, development, integration, and testing of the CubeSat, demonstrating feasibility of satellite communication in the Terahertz band (THz band, 0.1-10THz).

This groundbreaking project is the first of its kind, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge space technology and communication systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the entire systems engineering process, ensuring the successful integration and operation of the CubeSats

QUALIFICATIONS:

Basic Qualifications:

·       A Ph.D. in. Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, or Computer engineering preferred) or a M.S. degree with 3+ years of experience in space missions

·       Systems engineering experience (ability to understand and connect different subsystems including the integration of hardware, software, and mechanical systems).

·       Ability to identify bottlenecks and solve problems across different domains

·       Proficiency in MATLAB or other programming languages

·       Clear writing and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

·       Understanding of terahertz communication systems

·       Background in satellite communication, wireless communication, or digital design

·       Previous experience with NASA or other space organizations

·       Project management experience on large or small scale

·       Familiarity with NASA’s project life cycle and associated milestones

·       An innovative mindset and a strong desire to make a contribution to humanity

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

Expected Hiring Range:

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.