Core Network Systems Research Engineer

About Skylo

Skylo is a global Non-Terrestrial Network service provider based in Mountain View, CA, offering a service that allows smartphone and IoT cellular devices to connect directly over existing satellites. 

Skylo’s direct-to-device service is now live across four continents, with more than 50 million square kilometers of coverage, in partnership with multiple satellite operators, mobile network operators (MNOs), Tier-1 chipset makers, and OEMs. Devices connected over satellite are managed and served by Skylo's commercial NTN vRAN, featuring a 3GPP standards-based cloud-native base station and core. Skylo provides anywhere, anytime connectivity solution that seamlessly roams between terrestrial and satellite networks. Our focus is on enabling connected services for people outdoors and connected workflows across three main verticals: mass-market consumer devices, automotive, and industrial IoT. 

This role is located in Mountain View, CA where we are onsite 3 days a week in office.

Summary Of How You Will Impact Skylo

Skylo is hiring a Core Network Systems Research Engineer to help fulfill Skylo’s mission of making satellite connectivity available to all. This individual will be design, analyze, and develop next-generation networking solutions for satellite communication systems. The ideal candidate will combine expertise in core network architecture, protocol development, and performance optimization with a passion for advancing satellite

How You Will Contribute 

• Conduct research and development of core network architectures for integrating satellite and terrestrial communication systems.
• Design and prototype solutions to optimize 4G/5G core networks for satellite communication use cases.
• Analyze and improve protocols for mobility management, handover, QoS, and latency reduction in satellite networks.
• Stay updated on advancements in networking technologies, standards, and protocols, including 3GPP developments.Prepare and contribute technical proposals and insights to 3GPP standardization efforts
• Develop proof-of-concept demonstrations and support their deployment in field trials or operational networks.
• Test and analyse end-to-end network performance, identifying and addressing bottlenecks.
• File patents and contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through innovative designs and solutions.
• Act as a subject matter expert, mentoring junior engineers and reviewing technical work to ensure alignment with industry best practices and project goals.
• Collaborate and effectively communicate with partners, vendors and Skylo stakeholders
• Work closely with other cross-functional teams, including base station/core,   network, platform engineering and quality analysis teams

What We Look For 

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in core network architecture, telecommunications, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of 4G/5G core network architecture, including EPC, 5GC, and related protocols (e.g. GTP, Diameter).
• Strong knowledge in LTE NB-IoT and 5G protocols and their evolution
• Familiarity with satellite communication principles, including GEO/MEO/LEO architectures and link characteristics.
• Familiar with test tools including protocol analyzers, Wireshark, Channel Simulators, Spectrum Analyzers, Signal Generators, etc. is preferred.
• Working experience in Lab testing or IoT testing is preferred.
• Proficiency in simulation tools and programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Python, C++, Java).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and team collaboration abilities.

Preferred

• Experience with hybrid satellite-terrestrial network integration.
• Knowledge of modern cloud-native tools (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker) and orchestration frameworks.
• Background in machine learning applications for network optimization.
• Prior experience in a startup or research-driven environment.

What We Offer

With employees working across three continents, Skylo is proud to be an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Our worldwide and inclusive culture encourages a flexible approach to work, and we also offer an attractive range benefits such as: 

• Competitive compensation packages including a stock option based equity program 
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, retirement plan
• Monthly allowances for wellness and education reimbursement
• A generous time off policy, holidays, and the opportunity to temporarily work abroad
• Once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of developing and running world’s first commercial, live direct-to-device satellite network and service 
• Access to world-class team and talent across tech domains: software, hardware, chipsets, telecom, satellite and network virtualization 
• Open, transparent, inclusive culture that blends the Silicon Valley, Nordic and South Asia characteristics
  
  

EEO Statement
Skylo is an equal-opportunity employer and we celebrate diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, ancestry, national origin, caste, sex, sexual orientation, parent or caregiver status, political affiliation, gender, gender identity or expression, age, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic makeup, marital status, or military service consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. Please let us know if you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability.