Staff Hardware Engineer – Space Systems

About the role

MDA Space is seeking a Staff Hardware Engineer to lead the design of high‑performance FPGA/ASIC‑based satellite telecommunication payloads. You will join a multidisciplinary team in the UK, working on cutting‑edge space sensors and communication technologies for LEO and GEO missions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead hardware development and manufacturing activities for satellite payloads across the full product lifecycle.
• Produce detailed circuit designs, including schematic capture, component selection, and electronic simulation.
• Perform engineering analyses such as derating, worst‑case, reliability, radiation, EMI/EMC, FMECA and power budgeting.
• Support hardware/software/system integration, test, validation and qualification.
• Direct in‑house and third‑party PCB layout teams and deliver prototype and production‑grade manufacturing packages.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team leadership.

Required profile

• 13‑15+ years of experience in hardware product design, preferably in space or a high‑reliability sector.
• Proven ability to manage complex hardware projects and multi‑functional teams.
• Strong knowledge of LEO/GEO communications payload requirements.

Required skills

• FPGA and ASIC design expertise.
• High‑speed digital design and SerDes interconnects.
• Design and manufacture of multi‑layer (10+) HDI PCBs.
• Circuit design, schematic capture, component selection, and electronic simulation.
• Engineering analysis: derating, reliability, radiation, EMI/EMC, FMECA, power budgeting.
• PCB layout coordination and prototype manufacturing.
• Hardware/Software/System integration, test, validation and qualification.