Communications EngineerAbout Us:BlackSky is a geospatial intelligence solutions provider that enables organizations to task, collect, and transform data from earth observation, global sensor networks, mobile devices, and social media to deliver on-demand insights about places, events, and assets that are critical to their operations. BlackSky provides satellite collection, data, and cloud based -processing and analytic solutions to organizations that are capitalizing on the exponential growth of a wide range of sensor and collection platforms for delivering the next generation of GEOINT and location intelligence solutions. BlackSky has extensive expertise and capabilities in commercial remote sensing, multi-source analytics, cloud computing, open source software development, Amazon Web Services, and big data geospatial analytics. BlackSky provides solutions to commercial and government organizations with relevant programs with the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA), US. Army, and U.S. Air Force Research Labs.This is a hybrid role based out of Seattle, WA and will report to the Director of Ground and Communication Systems. As part of the Communications Engineering team, you will be instrumental in engineering and testing of our communication systems on our next gen satellites along with ground station compatibility. These duties include responsibilities that traverse the entire system design, from network connectivity to the Mission Operations Center to the transmission and receipt of RF signals from space and all the systems and hardware in between.The position is an integral part of our Constellation Engineering and Test teams and is charged with the responsibility of supporting the spacecraft from the initial design phase through its operational life. Routine travel is expected to facilitate to support our remote systems throughout their design and operations lifecycle. The ideal candidate has a demonstrated ability to take on broad scope of work, execute tasks efficiently and autonomously, and has a demonstrated ability and willingness to learn and solve new problems.Responsibilities:Develop and release design documentation to facilitate the engineering of satellite systems and ground station solutions.Define and perform tests to test satellite communication system hardware and new features.Develop and execute test program that will qualify new hardware to meet system requirements and ensure compatibility between space and ground segments.Interface with vendors to facilitate installation of deployment and operational support of hardware.Support regulatory filings and analysis.Support operational team with analysis of ground station and/or communications issues.Support ground station design, test, and deployment.Interface effectively with a multidisciplinary team, including other communications engineers, program management, software developers, IT, and systems engineering.Manage competing priorities.Other relevant duties assigned.Required Qualifications:Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.Minimum of five years technical experience, preferably in a space operations environment.Understanding of key communication systems theories and techniques including systems architecture, antennas, signal processing, and/or RF propagation.Experience with hands-on testing of RF hardware.Ability to develop of design documentation.Possess strong team and inter-team cooperation and organization skills.Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong understanding of audience.Ability to multi-task within a startup, fast paced environment.Proven experience as a self-starter, that can work independently.Preferred Qualifications:Experience with avionics and antenna installation, testing and maintenance.Experience writing software