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Principal Engineer, Level 3 Support DRS Global 401(k), retirement plan United States, Virginia, Bristow Oct 13, 2026

Who We Are:

At SES Space & Defense, we deliver secure, resilient connectivity and integrated space solutions for customers operating in the world's most demanding environments. As part of SES S.A., a global leader in satellite-enabled communications, we combine capabilities across all orbits with extensive global ground infrastructure, managed networks, hosted payload solutions, and mission integration services to support communications, sensing, data transport, and operational resilience worldwide. Our vertically integrated space and ground capabilities bring together satellite capacity, terrestrial infrastructure, advanced network technologies, and deployed user terminals to support mission-critical government operations around the world. We are a trusted partner to the U.S. Federal Government and national security community, allied governments, NATO, NASA, and other civilian agencies, delivering reliable, high-performance solutions when mission success is critical. At SES Space & Defense, our people are our competitive advantage. You'll work alongside a mission-driven team committed to integrity, innovation, accountability, and delivering real-world impact for customers whose missions matter most.

What You'll Do:

In this role, you will serve as a senior technical authority supporting the deployment, integration, sustainment, and troubleshooting of mission-critical GEO and MEO satellite communications systems. You will provide Tier III engineering support across SES Space & Defense's global SATCOM infrastructure, working directly with customers, field personnel, network operations teams, and engineering organizations to resolve complex technical issues and ensure reliable service delivery. This position combines hands-on field engineering, systems integration, operational troubleshooting, and customer engagement across a broad range of satellite communications technologies. You will play a key role in maintaining operational readiness, improving service reliability, and supporting the successful deployment of new capabilities across government and defense customer environments. Provide Tier III technical support for GEO and MEO satellite communications services, supporting escalated operational and customer issues

Perform factory acceptance testing (FAT), bench testing, validation, and certification of SATCOM equipment, terminals, and integrated systems

Support installation, activation, integration, and sustainment of fixed and mobile satellite communications systems in customer environments

Conduct site surveys and technical assessments, providing recommendations for system design, deployment, and operational readiness

Troubleshoot complex SATCOM, networking, and system integration issues across customer and SES-operated infrastructure

Support field service activities, including domestic and international travel for installations, repairs, upgrades, and operational support

Develop and maintain technical documentation, as-built drawings, operational procedures, and troubleshooting guidance

Deliver customer and internal training on SATCOM systems, operational procedures, and troubleshooting methodologies

Support warehouse, RMA, asset management, and equipment lifecycle activities to ensure operational readiness of deployed systems

Collaborate with Network Operations, Engineering, Service Delivery, and customer stakeholders to improve system performance and service reliability

Who You Are:

You are a highly capable SATCOM engineer with extensive experience supporting operational satellite communications systems in government, military, or mission-critical environments. You possess strong technical expertise across GEO and MEO architectures and are comfortable troubleshooting complex issues spanning RF systems, networking, terminals, antennas, and integrated communications infrastructure. You thrive in environments that require both hands-on technical execution and direct customer engagement, serving as a trusted resource during system deployments, operational challenges, and critical service restoration efforts. You are equally effective working independently in the field or collaborating with cross-functional engineering and operations teams to solve difficult technical problems. Ultimately, you bring the technical depth, operational mindset, and customer focus required to maintain reliable communications capabilities supporting global mission operations. Key Qualifications & Experience Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience

8-10 years of SATCOM engineering, field engineering, or satellite communications operations experience

Strong knowledge of GEO and MEO satellite communications systems, including operational support, integration, and troubleshooting

Experience supporting fixed and mobile SATCOM systems, antennas, terminals, modems, networking equipment, and associated infrastructure

Working knowledge of IP networking, routing, and communications technologies; Juniper experience preferred

Experience conducting system testing, acceptance activities, site surveys, installations, and operational readiness assessments

Ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues in customer-facing and operational environments

Experience supporting government, military, or defense communications systems preferred

Ability to travel domestically and internationally in support of customer operations and system deployments

U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance; active clearance preferred SES Space & Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law The final base salary offered will be determined based on factors such as the position's location, the candidate's relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. Where applicable, this position may also be eligible for an annual bonus. Employees are eligible to participate in SES Space & Defense's benefits programs, which include paid vacation, sick and personal leave; medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; a 401(k)-retirement plan; and others. Notify me of jobs like this