Hardware Engineer, Level 1

Key Responsibilities

• Design, install, and test RF and SATCOM hardware systems across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band)
• Account for environmental and signal propagation factors including atmospheric attenuation, ionospheric effects, rain fade, and polarization mismatch
• Conduct site surveys and support installation activities including antenna alignment, hardware rack and stack, and system integration
• Operate and maintain earth-terminal control systems to establish and sustain communication links
• Perform preventive, scheduled, and corrective maintenance on RF systems and components
• Troubleshoot and resolve RF hardware issues in real-time, including degraded signal performance and system faults
• Apply anti-jamming techniques and enforce operational and safety procedures
• Utilize RF test equipment such as Keysight PNA-X, FieldFox, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers
• Conduct RF measurements including S-parameters, P1dB, TOI, noise figure, phase noise, and group delay
• Perform non-linear analysis including intermodulation distortion (IMD) and spectral regrowth
• Develop and maintain technical documentation including schematics, diagrams, engineering plans, and test reports
• Create AutoCAD and Visio drawings and support as-built documentation and system design packages
• Cook up with cross-functional teams including system engineers, program managers, and test personnel
• Support installations, testing, and maintenance activities in remote or field environments (up to 15% travel)
• Lead or support inspection and maintenance teams, and provide guidance to site personnel as needed

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Strong experience in RF system design, installation, and testing, with a focus on SATCOM systems
• Hands-on experience with RF test equipment including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers
• Knowledge of RF signal propagation, interference, and environmental impacts on system performance
• Experience troubleshooting complex RF systems and implementing corrective actions
• Experience developing maintenance procedures and conducting system inspections
• Strong understanding of RF measurement techniques and performance analysis
• Strong communication skills and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams
• Physical ability to climb antennas, lift equipment, and perform hands-on installation work