Test Engineer - Satellite Hardware

About the role

This role focuses on verifying space and ground payload hardware in a lab environment. You will work on bench-level tasks, debugging issues and automating test processes.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree (or better) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or similar degrees is required. Hands-on experience with single-board computers, microcontrollers, FPGAs, GPUs, CPUs, SoCs, software-defined radios, and/or antennas is required. Ability to generate schematics and read and understand datasheets for integrated circuits is required. Working knowledge of electronic components and test equipment is required. Experience using Linux-based systems is required. Experience with standard RF lab equipment, including Oscilloscopes, Spectrum/Vector Network Analyzers, and Multimeters, is required. Proficiency in one or more programming languages, such as C++, C, Python, or MATLAB, is required. Good communication skills are required, with the ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.

Nice to have

Testing experience in areas such as EMI testing (RE 102, RS103), Vibration Testing (Experience with GEVs), Familiarity with ethernet, serial and/or CAN communication protocols, and recent participation in projects developing space payload hardware and software (preferably communications systems).

Practical notes

citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee, or asylee status is required to comply with ITAR export control regulations. Onsite presence may vary based on team needs; Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

Test engineers validate hardware performance in controlled lab conditions using instruments such as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers. Single-board computers, FPGAs, and software-defined radios are common tools in this type of role. Reliable testing depends on clear procedures, repeatable data collection, and careful documentation.

Questions to ask

Good questions to ask the employer in the interview: what does success look like in the first six months, how is the team structured, what is the current biggest challenge, and how are decisions made. Asking about growth paths and the review process is also well received. Employers expect questions, and good ones show preparation.

Career growth

Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.

About the company

Lynk is the inventor of satellite direct to device or D2D technology, and has the world's only commercial license from the FCC to operate a commercial D2D system. Today, Lynk allows mobile network operators' subscribers to send and receive text messages to and from space via standard unmodified, mobile devices.