Senior VSAT Network Architect

Job Title: Senior VSAT Network Architect
Responsibilities:

Needs Assessment: Conduct a detailed analysis of existing infrastructure, bandwidth requirements, applications (SCADA, voice, video, data), and potential points of failure in the current network.
VSAT Network Design:
Design a high-availability VSAT network architecture that meets the primary connectivity needs of the offshore data center to the DR site.
Develop a comprehensive backup solution using VSAT to ensure continuous operation of critical systems in case of fiber outages in both onshore and offshore locations.
Link Budget Analysis: Perform detailed link budget calculations to determine optimal VSAT system parameters (e.g., antenna size, transponder power, modulation schemes) for reliable performance.
Site Surveys: Conduct site surveys at offshore platforms and onshore facilities to assess environmental factors (e.g., wind loading, rain fade) and identify suitable locations for VSAT equipment.
Equipment Selection: Evaluate and select appropriate VSAT equipment (antennas, modems, hubs, network management systems) from leading vendors, considering factors such as performance, reliability, cost, and support.
Network Optimization: Utilize network planning tools and techniques to optimize network performance, minimize latency, and maximize throughput.
Security Implementation: Integrate robust security measures into the VSAT network design to protect sensitive data and comply with industry best practices.
Disaster Recovery Planning: Develop detailed procedures for activating the VSAT backup system in the event of a fiber outage or other disaster scenario.
Documentation: Produce comprehensive network diagrams, link budgets, equipment specifications, installation guidelines, and operational procedures.
Vendor Management: Collaborate with VSAT service providers, equipment vendors, and installation contractors to ensure timely and efficient project delivery.
Testing & Commissioning: Oversee the rigorous testing and commissioning of the VSAT network to validate performance and ensure seamless integration with existing systems.
Training & Knowledge Transfer: Provide training and guidance to operations and maintenance teams on the operation and maintenance of the VSAT network.
Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
Experience:
15+ years of experience in designing and implementing VSAT networks, with a strong focus on the oil and gas industry.
Proven expertise in architecting VSAT-based backup solutions for critical infrastructure.
Extensive experience working with offshore communication systems and understanding the unique challenges of the marine environment.
Familiarity with SCADA systems, industrial communication protocols, and real-time data transmission requirements in the petroleum industry will be big plus.
Technical Skills:
Deep understanding of VSAT technologies (e.g., DVB-S2/S2X, TDMA, FDMA, CDMA).
Expertise in satellite link budget analysis and network optimization.
Strong knowledge of IP networking, routing protocols, and QoS mechanisms.
Familiarity with network security best practices and encryption technologies.
Experience with VSAT network management systems.

VSAT Network Architect