RF Design Engineer

TrellisWare launched in 2000 with an innovative culture striving to push technological boundaries in wireless communications. We are now a worldwide leader in highly advanced algorithms, waveforms, and communications systems ranging from small form factor radio products to fully integrated solutions. At TrellisWare, we connect passion with purpose and together we make an impact—on our careers, our company, and the world.

About the role

Our Hardware Team is seeking an RF Design Engineer to design and develop highly selective receive chains and 2-20 watt transmit chains for VHF, UHF, L, and S-band handheld and vehicular radios. TrellisWare’s products are engineered to provide robust and reliable communication in congested and contested RF environments. You will combine the latest integrated components alongside custom-designed discrete filters and amplifiers, balancing transmit power, battery life, spurs and harmonics, receive selectivity, noise figure, and overall size to produce cutting-edge radios.

Responsibilities

• System-level RF design, including component selection and cascade analysis, using AWR Microwave Office
• Component-level design, leveraging integrated solutions but primarily focused on custom discrete filters and amplifiers
• RF schematic entry (and ideally PCB layout) using Altium toolchain
• Generate required design documentation
• Validate and debug product performance through test and analysis at the component, module, and system level
• Collaborate with Product Management and Operations to carry development from prototype to production
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field of study
• 5 years of experience with MSEE or 7 years of experience with BSEE as an RF/Wireless Design Engineer
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (required for security clearance eligibility)

Skills

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

• RF cascade analysis and optimization for both noise figure and performance in strong interference environments
• Filter synthesis and design, especially for low-loss, high-power filters using lumped elements
• Schematic entry and PCB layout experience (ideally using Altium tools)
• Linear RF simulation (ideally using AWR Microwave Office)
• Hands-on experience with RF circuit bring-up, troubleshooting, optimization, and high-volume production

An exceptional candidate would also possess:

• Discrete amplifier design experience, particularly at 1 W and above
• Understanding of both the features and limitations of integrated RF transceivers
• Experience with non-linear simulations, including simulated load-pull analysis
• Understanding of frequency conversion, frequency synthesizers, and PLL design up to 3 GHz with tight packaging constraints
• Experience with EM Solvers such as HFSS, Momentum, Analyst, or AXIEM (preferred)
• Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and interact with a variety of engineering development teams
• Strong documentation skills and proficiency with PC office applications
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Collaborative drive and interpersonal skills
• Proactive work ethic and prioritization skills
• Sound judgment and decision-making abilities
• Champion of change and promotes innovation

Physical Demands

• Able to frequently sit, stand, walk, use hands to fingers, handle or feel, reach within hands and arm's length, stoop, kneel, and crouch, talk, and hear
• Regularly required to sit for extended periods of time; frequently required to use office equipment such as PC, printer, telephone, etc.
• Able to regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

Pay

TrellisWare Technologies pays competitively according to the market in an individual's geographic location, qualifications, and experience. The posted range is annually for individuals located in the San Diego, CA area.

San Diego, California Pay Range: $115,000 - $200,000 USD