RF Communication Engineer III - Blue National Security (Top Secret Clearance required)

About the role

The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. As part of our RF Communications team, you'll have end-to-end ownership of next-generation spacecraft RF and optical communication systems, from analysis and design through manufacturing, test, and on-orbit operations.

Responsibilities

• Architect and deploy mission-critical RF communications systems — from concept through checkout — enabling real-time telemetry, video, and data flows for reusable spacecraft operations
• Own end-to-end system performance, including link budget, phase noise, coverage analyses, and requirements verification across all phases of flight
• Design and execute RF test campaigns spanning bench, integrated systems, and field environments to validate hardware against specifications and ensure full interoperability
• Drive procurement strategy from supplier vetting and selection through ongoing management, ensuring hardware meets rigorous mission requirements
• Define and maintain system architecture, including sizing, requirements derivation, and performance parameters for next-generation communications solutions
• Cook up critical interfaces across space relay platforms, ground stations, and internal C&DH/payload subsystems to ensure seamless end-to-end connectivity
• Own configuration control and documentation, maintaining detailed functional/logical diagrams, asset inventories, and procedures that keep fast-moving programs on track
• Support hardware integration labs, vehicle testing, peer reviews, and sit on-console during Launch and Early Operations to see your work fly

Requirements

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics or related technical subject area
• At least 4+ years of experience in avionics and communication systems development and verification
• Knowledge of communication systems for system design, radios, antennas, RF components, waveforms
• Experience performing electromagnetic (EM) simulations using tools like HFSS, CST, or TICRA to optimize antenna performance and coverage
• Excellent verbal, written, and graphical communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast paced, dynamic work environment
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Qualifications

• At least 4+ years of experience in avionics and communication systems development and verification
• Knowledge of communication systems for system design, radios, antennas, RF components, waveforms
• Experience performing electromagnetic (EM) simulations using tools like HFSS, CST, or TICRA to optimize antenna performance and coverage
• Excellent verbal, written, and graphical communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast paced, dynamic work environment
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Skills

• Sharp RF engineer with a foundation in satellite communications and systems engineering
• Thrives in a fast-paced environment and isn't afraid to lead

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Short and long-term disability
• 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%
• Education Support Program
• Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays

Pay

For WA applicants is $130,706.00 - $182,987.70

Schedule

Not specified