Orbital Network Architect

Axiom Space is guided by the vision to build era-defining space infrastructure that drives exploration and fuels a vibrant space economy for the benefit of every human everywhere. Axiom Space is the leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit. Axiom Space operates end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today while developing its successor, Axiom Station – a permanent commercial destination in low-Earth orbit that will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home. Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Orbital Network Architect who is fueled by high ownership, execution horsepower, growth mindset, and driven to support Axiom’s mission to develop and deploy ODCs. POSITION SUMMARY The Orbital Network Architect defines and leads the strategy, architecture, and lifecycle of Axiom’s Orbital Data Center (ODC) network systems. This role drives the development, integration, and deployment of secure, resilient, and high‑performance space‑based network solutions. The architect partners across engineering, operations, and external stakeholders to translate mission needs into robust network capabilities. This position is central to advancing Axiom’s next‑generation orbital infrastructure. KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Design and manage the architecture of an evolvable, scalable, and maintainable network solution for Axiom’s orbital data center infrastructure: Develop and deploy end‑to‑end network architectures, including hardware and software components. Guide engineering teams in implementing network‑aligned hardware and software solutions. Coordinate with program management on planning, scheduling, integration, and test activities. Collaborate with external partners on integration, testing, and ongoing infrastructure support. Ensure the sustainability, resiliency, and operational excellence of Axiom’s space network infrastructure: Advise ground segment IT and mission operations teams on network solutions supporting ground‑to‑space operations. Provide technical guidance to engineering teams to optimize ODC network performance and reliability. Support product teams in developing network capabilities for mission‑critical operations and revenue‑generating shared services. Implement configuration management, quality assurance, access control, and cybersecurity frameworks. Lead the evolution of Axiom’s space‑based network capabilities: Identify, assess, and communicate emerging technologies and capabilities across the organization. Align network strategy and infrastructure development with broader business and technology objectives. Drive design upgrades and modernization efforts for space network infrastructure. Communicate priorities, risks, and capability needs to senior leadership. Evaluate advanced network hardware and software technologies for future adoption. Represent Axiom’s ODC network vision within the space industry and broader space‑networking ecosystem. Present findings and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, and customers. Systematically document progress, capture knowledge, and maintain an engineering notebook. Perform other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Education & Experience: Required : 10+ years of progressive professional experience spanning Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, and/or Computer Science, including substantial hands-on technical work and leadership responsibilities. 5+ years of experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) organizations, with familiarity in DoD requirements and commonly utilized network infrastructure solutions highly preferred. Proven ability to architect, build, and modernize network infrastructure, whether developing systems from the ground up or upgrading existing environments to meet evolving mission and technology demands. Demonstrated expertise in emerging technologies, with experience designing, implementing, monitoring, and optimizing network solutions in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams of IT professionals and space systems engineers. Experience advising engineering teams on best practices, system design, and technical standards to ensure robust, scalable, and secure solutions. Working knowledge of optical and RF communication systems, including their integration into complex network architectures. Deep understanding of industry security frameworks and protocols, such as ISO 27001 and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines. Strong command of the OSI model, with practical experience applying its layered structure to troubleshoot, design, and secure advanced network systems. Desired Advanced technical expertise across electrical engineering, information technology, and computer science, supported by substantial hands-on experience and relevant professional certifications. Industry recognized network certifications strongly preferred, such as: Certified Space Network Architect (CSNA) Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certified Wireless Networking Professional (CWNP) Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) – Routing and Switching Demonstrated success designing and deploying high‑performance network architectures engineered for low latency, high throughput, and resilient mission operations. Experience developing resilient edge computing or disconnected cloud services for remote or bandwidth‑constrained environments. Core Skills Ability to multi-task, work independently with minimal supervision, and make and communicate the rationale behind key decisions in a constantly evolving fast-paced work environment. Strong project and time management skills with a high level of intuition and judgment. Must have a “can do” attitude – no job is too big or small, problem solver. Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to integrate quickly into a small team and represent the company with integrity. Core Competencies: Embody our core values of leadership , innovation , and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Accountability Technical Rigor Execution Discipline Pride of Delivery WORK ENVIRONMENT: Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task. Requirements Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation and must be able to hold a DoD security clearance. Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones. Physical Requirements Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time) May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time) Equipment and Machines Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.) Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.