At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and validation of satellite communication systems in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Open Cosmos, a mission-driven company making space accessible for real-world solutions.
- Benefits: Work with cutting-edge technology and a diverse, supportive team.
- Other info: Flexible work locations with opportunities for career growth in an innovative field.
- Why this job: Shape the future of satellite communications and tackle global challenges from space.
- Qualifications: Strong background in wireless PHY/MAC design and knowledge of LEO satellite challenges.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before. The Satcom team is responsible for the design, delivery and performance of Open Cosmos’ satellite communications services, spanning the space segment, ground infrastructure and global connectivity. As the team continues to scale we are now looking for a Senior Access Layer Engineer who’ll lead the implementation and validation of the satellite air interface, translating high-level architecture into detailed designs, simulations, and working prototypes.
What will you be doing? You’ll play a key role in shaping how waveform generation, MAC protocols, and link adaptation perform within demanding LEO environments by:
- Developing and optimising PHY and MAC layer functionality for satellite communication systems
- Defining and validating random access, scheduling, timing advance, and resource allocation mechanisms
- Designing algorithms to mitigate LEO-specific challenges including Doppler effects, latency, and mobility constraints
- Building and maintaining link-level simulation environments using MATLAB, Simulink, or Python
- Supporting waveform, numerology, and frame structure definition aligned to 3GPP NTN and DVB-S2X standards
- Developing and validating link adaptation strategies including ACM and CSI-driven optimisation
- Defining and governing interface specifications across critical access layer subsystems
- Leading rapid prototyping activities using SDR platforms and system-in-the-loop validation environments
- Designing and executing verification scenarios for mobility, handover, BER, and throughput performance
- Working closely with architects and multidisciplinary engineering teams to bridge system design and implementation
What You’ll bring:
- Strong capability in wireless PHY and MAC layer design within satellite or high-performance communication systems
- Deep understanding of L1/L2 protocols including random access, scheduling, timing advance, and resource allocation
- Strong knowledge of 3GPP NR standards (TS 38.211–38.321) and familiarity with DVB-S2X
- Advanced modelling and simulation capability using MATLAB, Simulink, or Python
- Strong grounding in Digital Signal Processing including synchronisation, forward error correction, and multi-user detection
- Knowledge of waveform design, numerology, and frame structure validation
- Strong understanding of link adaptation techniques including ACM and CSI-driven optimisation
- Familiarity with SDR platforms such as USRP or GNU Radio and rapid prototyping workflows
- Understanding of LEO satellite communication challenges including Doppler, propagation delay, and mobility management
- A highly analytical and structured approach to problem-solving, performance optimisation, and system validation
This role will be based in any of our locations. To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location. When applying, please submit your CV in English.
Why Open Cosmos? Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe. A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges. A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team.
Senior Access Layer Engineer employer: Open Cosmos
Open Cosmos is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of space technology while contributing to meaningful global challenges. With a diverse and ambitious team, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration, alongside opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly evolving industry. Join us to be part of a mission-driven company that values your expertise and creativity in making space accessible for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Access Layer Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the satellite communications field on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got projects or prototypes related to PHY and MAC layer design, share them online. A portfolio can really make you stand out in a competitive field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on LEO-specific challenges and link adaptation techniques. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action, so be ready to tackle some real-world scenarios!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Access Layer Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Access Layer Engineer role. Highlight your experience with PHY and MAC layer design, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or technologies you've worked with that align with our needs.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your skills in action! Include specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in satellite communications, especially those related to LEO environments. This will help us understand your problem-solving approach.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Cosmos
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of wireless PHY and MAC layer design, especially in satellite communication systems. Be ready to discuss specific protocols like L1/L2, random access, and scheduling mechanisms. The more you can demonstrate your expertise, the better!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to talk about how you've tackled challenges in LEO environments before. Think about examples where you've optimised performance or dealt with issues like Doppler effects and latency. Real-world scenarios will help you stand out.
✨Get Hands-On with Tools
Familiarise yourself with MATLAB, Simulink, or Python if you haven't already. Be ready to discuss your experience with link-level simulation environments and rapid prototyping using SDR platforms. Showing that you can hit the ground running is key!
✨Connect with the Team
Research Open Cosmos and their mission to make space accessible. Be prepared to discuss how your role as a Senior Access Layer Engineer fits into their goals. Demonstrating that you're aligned with their vision will show you're not just looking for any job, but this job.
