Principal Engineer, Radio Access Networks (RAN)

Job Summary:

The Principal Engineer, Radio Access Networks (RAN) is responsible for the design, optimization and evolution of radio access networks (RAN) for satellite systems. In particular, he or she focuses on the integration of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) according to 3GPP standards (versions 17 and 18), as well as their coexistence and interoperability with fifth-generation (5G) terrestrial networks.

The person who holds this position reports to the Director, Satellite Ground Infrastructure and RAN and aims to ensure optimal radio performance, seamless integration between satellite and ground, as well as consistent evolution of network architectures in hybrid satellite and terrestrial environments.

Main Responsibilities:

Radio Architecture and Design (RF/RAN)

• Define the radio architecture of the GEO and LEO satellite networks.
• Design radio frequency (RF) planning, including coverage, capacity, and radio links.
• Size capacity for narrowband voice (VoNB), Internet of Things (IoT), and data services, based on radio resources per carrier and beam.
• Ensure the management of the frequency spectrum, including S and Ku bands, frequency plans, reuse factors and network coexistence.
• Define beamforming techniques and satellite beam management strategies.

Dimensioning and performance of the radio network

• Monitor radio access network (RAN) performance, including quality, coverage, and throughputs.
• Assess network capacity, by analyzing the balance between available radio resources and voice and data load.
• Identify congestion thresholds and make recommendations for network desaturation or expansion.
• Develop the roadmap for the evolution of RAN resources.
• Ensure that the quality and performance of radio frequency (RF) and RAN resources is maintained.

NTN Integration and RF/RAN Optimization

• Adapt the parameters of the radio access network (RAN) to the specific constraints of non-terrestrial networks (NTN).
• Define, track, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), such as accessibility, availability, cost-effectiveness, and throughputs.
• Develop customer experience evaluation methods, including field measurements and KPI analysis.
• Identify, analyze, and mitigate sources of radio interference.
• Ensure a technological watch on the evolution of the 3GPP standards (versions 17 and 18) and ensure their implementation at the level of the radio access network (RAN).

Leadership & Coordination

• Plan and coordinate the work of external vendors.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams

Education/Experience/Certification:

• Hold a university degree in engineering or an equivalent field.
• Be a member of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ) or be in the process of becoming one.
• 7-10 years of experience in radio frequency networks and radio access networks (RF/RAN).
• Experience in hybrid network operators, combining satellite and terrestrial infrastructures.

Other Qualifications:

• Knowledge of‑Direct-to-Mobile‑(D2M) architectures and/or Internet of Things (IoT) architectures on non-terrestrial networks (NTN IoT).
• Good knowledge of VoLTE (Voice over LTE), VoNB (Narrowband Voice) and NB‑Narrowband Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, including their deployment in NTN and NTN IoT environments.
• Knowledge of field measurement campaign tools and network capacity simulation and modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), including GEO and LEO constellations, as well as 4G and 5G terrestrial radio access networks (RAN).
• Knowledge of radio propagation and calculation of satellite link budgets.
• Fluency in French is required for this position.
• Fluency in English is also required in order to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues across the country.

Skills Required:

Adapted to his or her level and field of expertise, the incumbent must possess the following skills:

• Ability to develop constantly in a spirit of continuous learning. 
• Generates value and has an innovative spirit. 
• Demonstrates sound management of organizational risk and IT security. 
• Has a service approach.
• Team player and collaborative.
• Communicates effectively. 
• Plans and organizes work autonomously, rigorously and agilely.
• Has a strong business acumen.