Air Interface Architect

Hybrid in Portugal·Added 4 months ago

This job was published 4 months ago

Open Cosmos

38 open roles

Overview

Job details

  • Hybrid

    Office and home days — the ad has the split.

Requirements

  • Be near Portugal for hybrid days

    No relocation package mentioned.

  • Have senior-level experience

    Senior-level role.

Pay & benefits

Visa & relocation

To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location.

Requirements

What we're looking for

  • Deep understanding of wireless communication systems and PHY/MAC layer architecture principles

  • Strong knowledge of 3GPP New Radio NTN standards and familiarity with DVB-S2X

  • Understanding of waveform design, numerology, frame structures, and resource allocation mechanisms

  • Knowledge of channel coding and modulation techniques including LDPC, Polar, BCH, and Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM)

  • Strong understanding of link adaptation, CSI-driven optimisation, and power control strategies

  • Knowledge of MAC layer protocols including scheduling, HARQ/ARQ, and resource multiplexing in high-latency environments

  • Understanding of mobility management and synchronisation within highly dynamic communication systems

  • Capability to translate orbital dynamics and LEO constraints into robust air interface specifications

  • Proficiency in system-level and link-level modelling and simulation for performance validation and optimisation

  • Understanding of modem architecture and partitioning between FPGA/ASIC and software-based implementations

  • A systems-thinking mindset with the ability to balance performance, scalability, compliance, and real-world implementation considerations

The role

What you'll do

  • Defining the end-to-end L1/L2 architecture for satellite communication systems aligned to 3GPP NR-NTN and DVB-S2X standards

  • Translating LEO dynamics including Doppler effects, latency, beam movement, and visibility constraints into air interface requirements

  • Driving waveform, numerology, frame structure, and resource allocation design for high spectral efficiency and throughput

  • Defining coding, modulation, and link adaptation strategies across varying link and environmental conditions

  • Architecting MAC layer protocols including scheduling, HARQ/ARQ, multiplexing, and resource management mechanisms

  • Defining mobility and handover frameworks across satellites, gateways, and user terminals

  • Specifying synchronisation mechanisms including timing advance and frequency pre-compensation strategies

  • Supporting integration between the air interface and core network functions for NTN connectivity and mobility management

  • Leading system-level and link-level modelling and simulation activities to validate performance and optimise design decisions

  • Defining modem architecture and functional partitioning across FPGA/ASIC and software layers to support multi-waveform operation

  • Contributing to future roadmap activities aligned with evolving 3GPP NTN and satellite communication standards

description

Aim high, go beyond!

At Open Cosmos we are solving the world's biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on...

The Satcom team is responsible for the design, delivery and performance of Open Cosmos' satellite communications services, spanning the space segment, ground infrastructure and global connectivity.

As our Satcom capability continues to grow, we're now looking for an Air Interface Architect to define and govern the end-to-end PHY and MAC layer architecture underpinning our LEO communication system, shaping how high-performance, scalable connectivity is delivered across the constellation.

What You'll bring

This role will be based in any of our locations.

When applying, please submit your CV in English.

Why Open Cosmos?

  • Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe

  • A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges

  • A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team

About Open Cosmos

Open Cosmos is a space technology company that designs, builds, and operates satellites and space missions. The company provides end-to-end solutions for space missions, from satellite design and manufacturing to launch and operations, serving clients in the Earth observation and communications sectors. They are known for their 'smallsat' missions and their focus on making space more accessible and affordable.

Open Cosmos has a growing presence in Spain, with offices in Barcelona and a team of engineers and scientists working on various space projects. The company's work culture is international and collaborative, with English as the working language, making it an attractive destination for international professionals. They offer a range of roles from engineering to operations, and their Spain-based positions are part of a global effort to advance space technology.

Industry
Space Tech
Founded
2015
Employees
100–250
Headquarters
Harwell, UK
All open roles at Open Cosmos
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