Altera
SatCom, ISR & Space Payload Architect
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SatCom, ISR & Space Payload Architect
SatCom, ISR, and Space Payload Architect
About the Role
Altera is seeking a SatCom, ISR, and Space Payload Architect to lead technical engagements and solution development for next-generation space and defense platforms. This role focuses on architecting FPGA-based solutions for satellite communications (SatCom), intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance (ISR), and onboard space payload processing.
Candidates must be located within commutable distance of the Altera New Hampshire office once established.
Key Responsibilities
- Define system architectures for SatCom, ISR, and space payload applications, leveraging Altera FPGA technologies
- Partner with customers and internal teams to translate mission requirements into scalable, high-performance solutions
- Design and optimize signal processing pipelines for applications such as:
- Modulation/demodulation, channelization, encryption
- Image/sensor processing
- Drive the adoption of FPGA-based acceleration for onboard processing, including real-time and edge compute in space environments
- Collaborate with hardware, software, and product teams to influence roadmaps and deliver optimized solutions
- Support system integration across:
- RF front-end
- Digital processing
- High-speed interconnects
- Provide technical leadership across:
- Design
- Verification
- Deployment phases
- Develop reference architectures, white papers, and technical collateral for aerospace and defense customers
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Compensation (New Hampshire): $169.0K – $244.7K USD (variations may apply based on factors such as location, experience, and qualifications). Additional incentive opportunities based on individual and company performance.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
- 8+ years of experience in:
- Satellite communications
- ISR systems
- Space payload design
- Strong background in digital signal processing (DSP) for:
- Communications systems
- Sensing systems
- Hands-on experience with:
- FPGA design (VHDL, Verilog, SystemVerilog)
- RTL development
- Experience with communication protocols and standards (e.g., DVB-S2/S2X, CCSDS, LDPC)
- Familiarity with high-speed data interfaces (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, JESD204)
- Experience with system-level design in constrained environments (power, thermal, radiation effects)
Security Clearance Requirement
This role may require access to U.S. Government contracts involving controlled or classified information. All applicants must be eligible for and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Failure to obtain/maintain clearance may result in withdrawal of an employment offer or termination.
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Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with:
- Onboard satellite payload processing or software-defined payloads
- RF systems, link budgets, and waveform design
- Experience with AI/ML acceleration for:
- ISR or space-based analytics
- Familiarity with:
- Altera FPGA architecture and toolchain
- Radiation-tolerant design and space qualification requirements
Key Competencies
✅ Strong system-level architecture and problem-solving skills ✅ Ability to balance performance, power, and reliability in space environments ✅ Experience interacting with aerospace/defense stakeholders ✅ Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Job Type: Regular Shift: Shift 1 (United States of America) Primary Location: Portsmouth, New Hampshire Additional Markets: San Jose, California
Diversity Statement
Altera complies with strict anti-discrimination policies, ensuring equal consideration for employment regardless of:
Race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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