Communications Network Engineer

Peraton is seeking a Communications Network Engineer to support the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) SSHINE contract to integrate, test, and support launch operations of experimental payloads. AFRL will provide the satellite bus and payload with all available documentation to date. you will play a key role in supporting the design, integration, and maintenance of communication systems and networks in support of space system experimentation. You will be involved in a range of activities, from network architecture development to hands-on integration and testing of communication systems for large and small-scale space technology experiments.

What you will do: 

• You will collaborate with other engineering teams to implement and maintain secure, high-performance networks that support mission-critical space technology applications. Your efforts will help ensure the success of systems engineering tasks, hardware/software-in-the-loop testing, and ground system integration for a variety of space missions.
• Design and Develop Communication Systems: Support the design, integration, and implementation of communication systems that are critical to RAPID’s space system experimentation and testing needs.
• Network Architecture: Assist in the development of network and communication architecture, ensuring high performance and reliability across various platforms, including space systems and high-altitude balloon experiments.
• Support Systems Integration and Testing: Collaborate with cross-functional teams in the integration and testing of network systems and communications hardware/software in both lab and field environments.
• Cybersecurity and Compliance: Ensure all communication and network systems adhere to security protocols and compliance requirements, including DoD risk management frameworks and cybersecurity standards.
• Troubleshoot and Maintain Systems: Perform ongoing maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting of communication systems and networks, ensuring the systems operate at optimal performance levels.
• Documentation and Reporting: Document network configurations, processes, and performance metrics, and provide regular status reports to leadership and other stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Work with engineers and program managers to define communication requirements, interface management, and operational concepts for new and existing projects.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 8 years with BS/BA; Minimum of 6 years with MS/MA; Minimum of 3 years with PhD
• Local to Albuquerque, New Mexico with the ability to work on-site
• This position requires the candidate possess a minimum of Top-Secret clearance with the ability to obtain TS/SCI. The candidate must maintain the clearance.
• 5+ years of experience in communication and network engineering, with a focus on defense systems or other mission-critical communication platforms.
• Proven experience with network design, integration, and testing, including hardware/software-in-the-loop environments.
• Strong experience with systems engineering processes and integration activities.
• Hands-on experience with networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP, etc.), routing/switching, and network security.
• Experience with the design and implementation of secure communication systems, including compliance with DoD cybersecurity standards.
• Proficiency in communication system design, network topology, and performance optimization.
• Expertise in troubleshooting and maintaining complex network and communication systems.
• Knowledge of cloud-based communication systems and IT infrastructure integration.
• Strong analytical skills to assess communication and network system performance.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and requirements definition for space systems.
• Familiarity with the integration of high-altitude balloon or space-based communication systems.
• Additional experience in Network Engineering practices in compliance with DoD standards.
  
  • Desired Certifications: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA Security+, or equivalent certifications.
  • Familiarity with tools like: Wireshark, SolarWinds, and analysis tools.
  • Experience with scripting and automation of network configurations (python, bash, PowerShell)
• Collaboration & Communication: Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical teams, providing cybersecurity support and guidance.
• Understanding of system-level analysis across various domains, including thermal, mechanical, structural, and electrical integration for space systems.
• Solid communication and collaboration skills
• Mission success mindset

Benefits:

Peraton offers enhanced benefits to employees working on this critical National Security program, which include heavily subsidized employee benefits coverage for you and your dependents, 25 days of PTO accrued annually up to a generous PTO cap and eligible to participate in an attractive bonus plan