Radio Frequency/ Microwave Engineer I

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments called Directorates, each focused on a specific area of scientific research or function. The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to address complex, real-world threats. The Physical Detection Systems and Deployment Division (PDSD), part of NSD, delivers policy-informed technology solutions by removing barriers to real-world implementation. The Disruptive Technology group within PDSD supports national-security missions requiring instrumentation, control systems, data acquisition, measurement science, and technical problem-solving across physics and engineering applications.

Responsibilities

• Design, simulate, and test RF front-end systems and subsystems
• Derive specifications for RF/microwave systems and subsystems
• Develop RF/microwave circuits and components including transceivers and antennas
• Characterize RF performance for both commercial and in-house developed systems
• Participate in technical design reviews and element/system-level activities

This position is based in Richland, WA and requires an onsite presence Monday through Friday.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship
• Ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance, including a background investigation covering employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with personal references, neighbors, and co-workers
• Must demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP)
• Subject to pre-employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with federal law

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education in electrical engineering with an emphasis on RF/microwave circuits, electromagnetic theory, or communications systems theory
• Experience characterizing RF components and systems with industry-standard test and measurement equipment, including spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, network analyzers, and software-defined radios (SDRs)
• Experience with Python, MATLAB, C++, or equivalent tools for modeling and analyzing RF systems
• Demonstrated understanding of electromagnetic propagation and antenna systems
• Experience with schematic capture and printed circuit board layout using Altium Designer or similar software
• Experience with design of linear and non-linear circuits such as power amplifiers, low noise amplifiers, mixers, filters, and PLLs
• Experience with basic laboratory equipment including soldering stations, multimeters, microscopes, hand and power tools
• Experience working with electrostatic discharge sensitive components and systems

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Robust telehealth care options and mental health benefits
• Free wellness coaching and health savings account
• Flexible spending accounts
• Basic life insurance and disability insurance
• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance
• Tuition assistance and relocation support
• Backup childcare, legal benefits, and supplemental parental bonding leave
• Surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support
• Company-funded pension plan and 401(k) savings plan with company match
• Up to 120 vacation hours per year and ten paid holidays per year

Pay

Minimum Salary: USD $80,500.00/year

Maximum Salary: USD $116,300.00/year