Satellite Systems Engineer

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Nightwing is seeking a cleared and experienced Satellite Systems Engineer in the Fairfax VA area in support of USG. The seclected candidate will provide Tier 2/3 network support, terminal maintenance, repair, managing spares and component repair and return process, equipment inventory, testing, carrier management.  And any/all additional tasking that ensures the reliable operational readiness for all associated systems within this global satellite communications network. 

This position requires a seasoned Satellite Systems Engineer who has had at least 6 years of experience in managing satellite communications networks. Must be well versed in RF theory, communications satellite network architectures, FDMA, TDMA operations, BPSK, QAM encoding schemes and how they relate to carrier characteristics i.e EB/No; BER; satellite power and bandwidth consumption.  Must be familiar with WGS and commercial satellite operations utilizing both heavy terminals, network field terminals and quick reactionary tactical systems.  He/she also must be well versed on carrier analysis utilizing state of art digital spectrum analyzers to determine nominal carriers from distorted or irregular carriers.  He/she must understand and be able to measure/calculate C/kt, C+N/N and C+N/No as well as terminal G/T and EIRP. 

Additional responsibilities include orchestrating annual field terminal characterizations utilizing existing remote capabilities.  Also he/she will be responsible for status monitoring of all surrounding support infrastructure i.e. radome; equipment shelters; deicers, blowers; emergency power systems; associated HVAC systems.

Required Skills:

• 6+ years of experience managing/operating satellite communication networks
• Experience with federal government communication networks

Desired Skills:

• Experienced in operation/configuration of an I-direct subnets
• Experienced in OCONUS travel/field environment

Additional Requirements:

• Additional Technical and Specialty Training/Certifications Etc.
• Years of Experience Required:    6+
• Education Level/Major:    Technical/Engineering degree in RF or Satellite communications
• Can Equivalent Experience be Substituted for Educational Requirement (Yes/No):    Yes, 6+ years of hands-on experience in RF/satellite systems
• Weapons Certification Required (Yes/No):    No
• Professional License or Certification Required (Yes/No) / Type:    No
• OCONUS TDY Required (Yes/No) / %:    No**
• CONUS TDY Required (Yes/No) / %:     No**

Must be a US Citizen and have an active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph from day one of employment and be crossover eligible


Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation’s most mission impactful initiatives.
When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world’s most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions.

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.

Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

** Travel requirements/amount and duration are subject to the needs of the Customer and may be more or less than what is listed.

Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.