CareerPlan

Lead Communications Engineer (SATCOM / RF / Acoustics) - Maritime

Costa Mesa, CA (OC-00)Full-time$161k–$212k2026-10-31 → 2026-11-11
Security clearance required

Core

Own the communications subsystem for a maritime autonomous vehicle, defining command and control links across long-range autonomous operations in contested maritime environments.

Role type

Lead Communications Engineer (Maritime Autonomous Vehicles)

Builds

Maritime autonomous vehicles with integrated BLOS, LOS, and acoustic communication systems

Domain

Defense / Maritime Robotics / RF & Acoustics

Deliverable

production ML models | product features

Required skills

RF communications, SATCOM, underwater acoustics, link budget analysis, communications system design, military communications standards, antenna selection, transducer integration, waveform selection, EMI/EMC qualification

Preferred skills

maritime or subsea communications systems, acoustic modem technology, SATCOM terminal integration (Iridium, MUOS), COMSEC, defense or maritime robotics

Technologies

SATCOM, RF, Acoustic Modems, Iridium, MUOS

Responsibilities

Define link budgets, data rates, latency requirements, and waveform selection; Lead acoustic communications design for submerged operations; Define LOS RF solutions for surface and near-surface operations; Interface with mission systems on C2 data requirements and network architecture; Lead and mentor IC3/4 engineers across communications sub-disciplines; Support prototype integration, at-sea testing, and EMI/EMC qualification

Seniority

Senior, hands-on IC with team leadership