Principal Service Platform Engineer at Intelsat

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Service Platform Engineer
Company: Intelsat
Location: Ellenwood, GA, United States
Job Type: Full time
Category: DevOps Engineer, System Administrator, Web Infrastructure
Date Posted: 2025-06-17
Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (5-10 years)
Remote Status: On-site/Hybrid (2 days WFH)

🚀 Role Summary

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on satellite communication systems, requiring a blend of network engineering, system administration, and DevOps skills. It involves designing, implementing, and maintaining satellite networks for optimal performance and reliability.
Lead the design, development, and deployment of satellite communication systems using iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms.
Collaborate cross-functionally to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues, ensuring seamless connectivity and data transmission.
Establish best practices for asset management, performance monitoring, and security, and mentor junior team members.
Stay updated with emerging technologies in satellite communications to recommend innovative solutions.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities revolve around satellite communication systems, requiring a strong understanding of network planning, capacity management, and RF communication systems.
Design, develop, and deploy satellite communication systems using iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms.
Configure and optimize iDirect Velocity hubs and modems for high-throughput satellite (HTS) networks.
Integrate hiSky Smartellite™ terminals for IoT applications, ensuring seamless connectivity and data transmission.
Understand link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management to support broadband services.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including provisioning and operations engineers, to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.
Develop and maintain documentation for system configurations, operational procedures, and technical support.
Stay updated with emerging technologies in satellite communications to recommend innovative solutions.
Perform engineering calculations using standard principles, theories, concepts, and techniques.
Work with stakeholders to deploy Intelsat’s platforms and solutions to PoPs and teleports.
Collaborate with project managers on technical scope, schedule, budget, and resource needs.
Provide leadership to mentor and coach team members.
Enhance training materials and deliver ongoing training to operations team members.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline, with at least five years of network and/or systems experience (or equivalent education and work experience).

Experience:

Proven experience configuring and managing iDirect Velocity platforms, including hub systems and modems.
Experience with hiSky IoT solutions, particularly Smartellite™ terminals and associated applications.
Good understanding of satellite communication protocols, standards, and network management systems.
Ability to perform accurate link budget analysis and satellite network planning.
Familiarity with RF communication systems design and testing.

Required Skills:

Knowledge of system hub components, VSAT Terminals, and VSAT Antennas.
Familiarity with ancillary technologies supporting telecommunication networks, such as management and metric gathering tools (Rest-API, SNMP, Netflow), packet capturing tools, and automation tools.
Knowledge of operating systems, including Linux, Debian, Unix, and related OS.
Ability to interact with Intelsat upstream and downstream teams to define detailed Statement of Work (SOW) documentation.

Preferred Skills:

Knowledge of IP routing protocols, including but not limited to BGP, EVPN, OSPF, RIP-2.
Knowledge of switching technologies, including but not limited to IGMP, 802.XX, Gigabit Ethernet, 10G Ethernet, VXLAN, VLAN/Trunking (802.1q and ISL).
Experience with system deployments.
Knowledge of RF (C Band, Ku Band, and Ka Band), IF, L-Band, and RF systems and teleport technologies.
Knowledge of various modulation and coding schemes for DVB-S, DVB-S2, and DVB-S2X.
Scripting/coding skills.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, candidates should be prepared to showcase their technical expertise through relevant projects, case studies, or certifications related to satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration.
Portfolio Essentials:
- Demonstrate experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms through relevant projects or case studies.
- Showcase proficiency in satellite communication protocols, network management systems, and RF communication systems design and testing.
- Highlight problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Technical Documentation:
- Provide examples of technical documentation created for system configurations, operational procedures, and technical support.
- Demonstrate understanding of link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management through relevant projects or case studies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is estimated based on industry standards for a Principal Service Platform Engineer role in the United States, with a mid-level experience range of $120,000 to $160,000 per year.

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 USD per year

Benefits:

Hybrid work environment offering up to two days per week work from home (for eligible positions)
Development opportunities supporting professional growth championed by the dedicated Learning & Development team. 20-25% of positions are hired internally!
Ways to get involved: satellite launch parties, company connect events, charitable activities, team social events, and recognition programs.
Wide range of benefits and perks to help you stay healthy, happy, and productive, including paid leave programs, medical, tuition reimbursement, and retirement benefits, employee wellness offerings, and more!

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Satellite Communications and Network Services

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees)

Founded: 1962

Team Structure:

The Network Engineering team consists of various roles, including Principal Service Platform Engineers, working collaboratively to design, implement, and maintain satellite communication networks.
The team follows an Agile/Scrum methodology, with regular sprint planning, code reviews, and quality assurance practices.
Cross-functional collaboration with provisioning, operations, and other teams is essential for troubleshooting and resolving complex technical issues.

Development Methodology:

Agile/Scrum methodologies for project management and software development.
Code reviews, testing, and quality assurance practices to ensure system reliability and performance.
Deployment strategies, CI/CD pipelines, and server management to maintain optimal system performance.

Company Website: https://www.intelsat.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Intelsat is a global leader in satellite services, providing high-quality, cost-effective satellite communications to customers worldwide. The company values innovation, collaboration, and customer focus, with a strong commitment to employee development and growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Principal Service Platform Engineer (Mid-Senior level)

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Manager of Network Engineering and may have supervisory responsibilities for junior team members.

Technical Impact: The Principal Service Platform Engineer plays a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining satellite communication networks, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. They establish best practices for asset management, performance monitoring, and security, and mentor junior team members.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical skill development and specialization in emerging satellite communication technologies.
Technical leadership potential, including architecture decisions and team management.
Career progression paths within the Network Engineering team or other departments, such as Operations or Product Management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's complexity and the required experience, candidates should possess a strong background in satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration. The role offers significant growth opportunities, both technically and managerially, within the Network Engineering team or other departments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, offering up to two days per week work from home (for eligible positions)

Office Location(s): Ellenwood, GA, United States

Workspace Context:

Collaborative workspace with opportunities for cross-functional team interaction and knowledge sharing.
Access to development tools, multiple monitors, and testing devices to ensure optimal productivity.
Work schedule flexibility for deployment windows, maintenance, and project deadlines.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with flexibility for deployment windows, maintenance, and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at Intelsat offers the best of both worlds, allowing employees to balance work-from-home flexibility with in-office collaboration and knowledge sharing. The company prioritizes employee well-being and work-life balance, providing a supportive and inclusive work environment.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Process Step 1: Technical assessment, focusing on satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration skills. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as their understanding of link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management.
Process Step 2: Cross-functional team interaction and cultural fit assessment. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their ability to collaborate with various teams, including provisioning and operations engineers, to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.
Process Step 3: Final evaluation criteria, focusing on the candidate's technical impact, problem-solving skills, and ability to mentor junior team members.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight relevant projects or case studies demonstrating experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms.
Showcase proficiency in satellite communication protocols, network management systems, and RF communication systems design and testing.
Emphasize problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration concepts.
Familiarize yourself with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as relevant tools and technologies.
Prepare for questions related to link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management.

ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)

Programming Languages: Python, Bash, Perl
Web Frameworks: N/A
Server Technologies: Linux, Debian, Unix, iDirect Velocity, hiSky IoT
Databases: N/A
Tools: Rest-API, SNMP, Netflow, packet capturing tools, automation tools
Methodologies: Agile, Scrum
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, communication, collaboration, mentoring, leadership
Industry Terms: Satellite communication systems, network engineering, system administration, iDirect Velocity, hiSky IoT, link budget analysis, network planning, capacity management

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Principal Service Platform Engineer role at Intelsat focuses on the candidate's technical expertise in satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as their understanding of link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Frontend Technologies: N/A

Backend & Server Technologies:

Linux, Debian, Unix
iDirect Velocity
hiSky IoT

Development & DevOps Tools:

Rest-API, SNMP, Netflow
Packet capturing tools
Automation tools

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for the Principal Service Platform Engineer role at Intelsat focuses on satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration. Candidates should be familiar with Linux, Debian, Unix, iDirect Velocity, and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as relevant tools and technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

Value 1: Customer focus and user experience, ensuring seamless connectivity and data transmission for IoT applications.
Value 2: Performance optimization and reliability, maintaining optimal system performance and minimizing downtime.
Value 3: Collaboration and knowledge sharing, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
Value 4: Innovation and emerging technologies, staying updated with the latest trends in satellite communication systems.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional team interaction and knowledge sharing, with regular meetings and communication channels.
Code reviews and peer programming practices to ensure system reliability and performance.
Knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and continuous learning opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture at Intelsat values collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning. The company prioritizes customer focus, performance optimization, and innovation, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Challenge 1: Designing and implementing satellite communication systems that can withstand harsh environmental conditions and maintain optimal performance.
Challenge 2: Integrating hiSky Smartellite™ terminals for IoT applications, ensuring seamless connectivity and data transmission in diverse network environments.
Challenge 3: Troubleshooting and resolving complex technical issues that arise in satellite communication systems, requiring strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of network engineering and system administration concepts.
Challenge 4: Staying updated with emerging technologies in satellite communication systems, requiring continuous learning and adaptation to new tools and technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Opportunity 1: Technical skill development and specialization in emerging satellite communication technologies, such as 5G networks and IoT applications.
Opportunity 2: Conference attendance, certification, and community involvement, allowing candidates to expand their professional network and gain insights into industry trends and best practices.
Opportunity 3: Technical mentorship, leadership development, and architecture decision-making, providing candidates with the opportunity to grow their careers within the Network Engineering team or other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Principal Service Platform Engineer role at Intelsat presents various technical challenges and growth opportunities. Candidates should be prepared to tackle complex technical issues, stay updated with emerging technologies, and pursue continuous learning and development opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Question 1: Can you describe your experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, and how you have used them to design, implement, and maintain satellite communication systems?
Question 2: How do you approach link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management for broadband services? Can you provide an example of a complex project you have worked on and the steps you took to ensure optimal system performance?
Question 3: Can you discuss your experience with RF communication systems design and testing? How have you ensured the reliability and performance of satellite communication systems in diverse network environments?

Company & Culture Questions:

Question 4: How do you approach collaborating with cross-functional teams, including provisioning and operations engineers, to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues? Can you provide an example of a successful collaboration and the outcome of your efforts?
Question 5: How do you stay updated with emerging technologies in satellite communication systems? Can you discuss a recent trend or innovation that has caught your attention and how you plan to incorporate it into your work?
Question 6: How do you ensure the security and performance monitoring of satellite communication systems? Can you discuss your experience with best practices for asset management and system optimization?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Strategy 1: Highlight relevant projects or case studies demonstrating experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as proficiency in satellite communication protocols, network management systems, and RF communication systems design and testing.
Strategy 2: Emphasize problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, showcasing your ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.
Strategy 3: Showcase your understanding of link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management through relevant projects or case studies, demonstrating your ability to optimize system performance and maintain reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation for the Principal Service Platform Engineer role at Intelsat focuses on the candidate's technical expertise in satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as their understanding of link budget analysis, network planning, and capacity management.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Service Platform Engineer position:

Submit your application through the application link provided.
Prepare a portfolio showcasing your experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms, as well as your proficiency in satellite communication protocols, network management systems, and RF communication systems design and testing.
Optimize your resume for web technology roles, highlighting relevant project experience and technical skills.
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on satellite communication systems, network engineering, and system administration concepts, as well as your experience with iDirect Velocity and hiSky IoT platforms.
Research Intelsat's company culture, values, and mission to ensure a strong cultural fit and alignment with your career goals.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Principal Service Platform Engineer