Senior RF Architect

Established in 2017, Infinite Orbits is a NewSpace company, based in Toulouse, pushing the boundaries of in-orbit services with cutting-edge spacecraft driven by its own Rendez-Vous solution, an advanced Autonomous Vision-Based Navigation Solution. IO has two generations of missions

"Orbit Guard" provides Inspection and Space Situational Awareness services in GEO.

"Endurance" is a docking service capable of extending the life of GEO telecom satellites, by taking over AOCS takeover for 5 years.

About the Role

The RF Architect – Platform / Payload takes end-to-end responsibility for the space segment RF architecture, covering both the platform telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) links and the payload RF links. He or she ensures the consistency of the end-to-end RF chain, from the antenna to the ground segment, across Infinite Orbits programs, working in close interface with the system architecture and other sub-systems. He/she is responsible for RF performance in line with the needs specified by the mission as well as the satellite's own requirements.

Job Description

Platform RF — Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C)

Define and evolve the platform TT&C RF architecture (command and telemetry channels, redundancies, safe modes)

Prepare TT&C link budgets, omnidirectional antenna radiation patterns, and associated performance models

Ensure the availability of the command link under all conditions (LEOP, safe mode, initial acquisition)

Define ground station requirements for LEOP, nominal operations, and safe mode phases, and participate in supplier selection

Payload / Mission RF

Define the payload RF architecture for mission links (data downlink) and inter-satellite/proximity links related to RPO operations

Prepare link budgets, directional antenna patterns, and performance models associated with the payload

Arbitrate trade-offs between onboard processing/storage capacity and ground or inter-satellite link capacity

Ensure compliance of all RF links (platform and payload) with ITU/FCC standards

Lead the design of RF subsystems (transceivers, antennas, amplifiers, filters), common or dedicated to each segment

Define and maintain RF interfaces at the platform/payload boundary (PF/PL bulkhead)

Evaluate space-qualified RF components and manage supplier relationships (lead times, specifications, quality monitoring)

Coordinate architecture choices with mechanical, thermal, avionics, flight software, and computer vision teams

Participate in design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, QR) and associated technical trade-offs

Oversee integration, environmental testing, and functional RF validation during the AIT phase, for both platform and payload

Develop RF test plans and troubleshoot anomalies

Maintain technological watch on RF developments and propose architectural evolutions

Requirements

Engineering degree (Master's level / Bac+5) in RF, telecommunications, or aerospace, or equivalent; PhD appreciated

At least 5 years of professional experience in space RF architecture design, including both platform TT&C links and payload/mission RF links

Experience on at least one satellite mission completed through to completion

Proficiency in RF simulation tools (ADS, HFSS, CST, STK)

Experience with equipment and system-level RF testing during AIT campaigns

Solid knowledge of antenna theory, microwave engineering, and RF principles

Understanding of space environment effects on RF systems

Knowledge of ECSS standards and space qualification processes

Ability to lead cross-functional topics and interact with suppliers and partners

Excellent technical communication skills, both spoken and written, in professional English.

Nationality : French nationality is mandatory due to project requirements.

Nice-to-Have Skills

Experience in in-orbit servicing or rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO)

Knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) and software-defined radio (SDR)

Experience in a NewSpace environment or agile development

What we offer

The opportunity to be part of an international team transforming the space industry.

A creative and innovative work environment where ideas turn into reality.