Director, Network Planning and Optimization

Company: viasat
Location: Carlsbad
Posted on: January 18, 2026

Job Description:

About us One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team. What youll do We have an exciting opportunity for a Director of Network Planning and Optimization to join our team! This is a strategic and leadership role responsible for overseeing the network design, implementation and continuous improvement of the satellite network, ensuring high performance, reliability and cost-effectiveness. In support of the Capacity/Network Strategy and Optimization organization in Viasat’s Government Services and Solutions business segment (GSS), this role will lead the planning and optimization of the network, including proposal support, link budgets, interference analysis, capacity recommendations, and terminal type approvals across multiple networks for optimal coverage and performance. They will drive the performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimization initiatives that aligns with the business units objectives to improve network efficiency and reliability. They will lead a team that collaborates with Viasat’s Commercial Networks, Operations, and International teams to ensure unified visibility and optimized use of global capacity! The day-to-day Spearhead the day-to-day coverage modelling to address proposals and Business Domain needs. Drive improvements in network reliability, provisioning speed, coverage shaping, and traffic optimization. Champion a data-first culture in network decision-making: forecast accuracy, link budget analytics, SLA enforcement, and infrastructure utilization. Defining the overall architecture, topology, and configuration of the satellite network, considering different satellite types (GEO, MEO, LEO) and their suitability for various applications and service areas. Implementing strategies and techniques to manage and optimize data flow across the network infrastructure, aiming to improve operational performance, reduce congestion, and control costs. Collaborate with Program, Product, and Engineering teams to ensure network resources align with program milestones, technical readiness, and customer success. Help refine the service delivery architecture to reduce cost-to-serve while enhancing mission outcomes and user experience. Own the roadmap for future-state provisioning, automation, network telemetry, and orchestration capabilities—particularly as hybrid and multi-orbit solutions scale. Standardize tools, dashboards, and KPIs across capacity and delivery operations to improve visibility and decision speed. Collaboration with Viasat Commercial and Operations teams on required reporting tools, analytics, KPIs, and Network Performance/Reliability statistics What youll need Bachelors degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or related field. 10 years Engineering (Electrical, RF, or similar) or related work experience Deep understanding of satellite communication systems: This includes knowledge of orbital mechanics, RF links, satellite payloads, ground infrastructure, and network architecture. Proficiency in network planning and optimization tools and software Expertise in areas like link budget calculations, propagation modeling, and interference management Demonstrable ability to lead and develop teams, set goals, manage projects, and inspire change within a fast-paced and complex environment. Ability to communicate complex information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences, influence stakeholders, and facilitate cross-functional meetings and discussions. Demonstrable skill in interacting with end users and delivering technical information effectively Capability to assess intricate scenarios, identify possibilities and challenges, develop impactful solutions, and support long-term planning. US citizenship required Must be able to obtain a United States Secret Clearance Remote work location or any Viasat office in the US What will help you on the job Master’s degree preferred Data analysis and dashboarding using best-in-class enterprise solutions is preferred Familiarity with network monitoring and performance analysis tools Familiarity with different types of satellites (GEO, LEO, etc.), network architectures, and the specific challenges associated with various orbits. Salary range $172,500.00 - $272,500.00 / annually. For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $214,000.00- $321,000.00/ annually At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. EEO Statement Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic.

Keywords: viasat, La Mesa , Director, Network Planning and Optimization, Engineering , Carlsbad, California