Network Architect

Role Define the end-to-end network architecture connecting Azora's space terminals, optical ground stations, and customer delivery points. You will own how data, telemetry, and control flow across a hybrid space-ground network with intermittent, weather-dependent optical links – covering everything from link-layer protocols and ARQ schemes to ground network topology, routing, scheduling, and security. Responsibilities Architect the end-to-end network: space-to-ground optical links, inter-site terrestrial backhaul, network operations center (NOC) integration, and customer data delivery. Define protocol stacks for optical links operating over fading atmospheric channels, including framing, FEC/interleaving strategy at the network layer, ARQ, and delay/disruption-tolerant networking (DTN) where appropriate. Design site-diversity and handover strategies that exploit multiple ground stations to maximize network availability under cloud cover. Develop network-level scheduling and resource allocation across satellite passes, ground stations, and customer demand. Specify ground segment IT/network infrastructure: routing, VPNs/encryption, QoS, monitoring, and integration with cloud delivery (AWS/Azure ground-station-style interfaces). Define security architecture across the network, including key management and encrypted command/telemetry paths. Produce ICDs and requirements that flow down to software, FPGA, and ground systems teams; support trade studies and customer technical engagements. Required Qualifications BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field. 7+ years in network architecture or space communications systems engineering, with at least 2 years on space or satellite programs. Deep knowledge of networking fundamentals: TCP/IP, routing, transport protocols over high-latency/lossy links, and performance-enhancing techniques. Experience with space link protocols (CCSDS suite – AOS/USLP, COP-1, CFDP – or equivalent proprietary stacks). Demonstrated ability to write clear architecture documents, ICDs, and requirements. Preferred Direct experience with optical space-to-ground or inter-satellite links and their availability/fading characteristics. Familiarity with DTN (Bundle Protocol), QUIC, or custom reliable transport over intermittent links. Experience designing ground station networks, teleports, or satellite operations infrastructure. Working knowledge of crypto/key management for space systems (e.g., CCSDS SDLS) and relevant security accreditation processes. Location This is an onsite/hybrid role based in Tempe, AZ or the Bay Area, CA – hardware work that’s hard to do remotely. Some travel expected for field deployment and vendor/manufacturing visits. Benefits: Generous equity Competitive healthcare (including options for vision and dental) 401(k) Unlimited PTO EEO & Reasonable Accommodations Azora is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know by contacting info@azora.space Export Control To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (iii) protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (iv) be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Salary ranges are based on the following criteria: Final salary is based on geographic location, experience, skills, and qualifications. About this Company Azora is building high-bandwidth communications infrastructure for environments where fiber can’t reach. This work spans LEO spacecraft constellations, lunar exploration missions, GEO satcom, deployable optical ground for defense, and data centers both on- and off-world. To enable rapid global proliferation Azora is developing compact and modular optical terminals small enough to deploy from a backpack, and space terminals that support high speed optical links from LEO out to the Moon.