RF Engineer

Job Summary

The Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer supports the design, analysis, testing, and operation of RF communications systems for space technology programs at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). This role focuses on spacecraft communications systems, ground station networks, antenna systems, and RF testing for missions ranging from CubeSats to ESPA-class satellites. The position provides hands-on RF engineering support throughout the space mission lifecycle from concept development through on-orbit operations.

Key Responsibilities

• RF System Design and Development: Design and analyze RF communications systems for spacecraft, payloads, and ground stations supporting space technology experiments

• Support spacecraft communications subsystem design for telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) systems

• Design and specify antennas for spacecraft and ground applications including patch, helical, horn, and phased array antennas

• Communications Link Analysis: Perform communications link budget analysis for space-to-ground and space-to-space links

• Ground Station Development and Integration: Support design and integration of ground station infrastructure including antennas, RF front-ends, and signal processing equipment

• RF Testing and Integration: Develop and execute RF test plans for spacecraft communications systems and ground stations

• Spacecraft Integration and Launch Support: Support spacecraft RF subsystem integration including antenna installation, RF harnessing, and RF system checkout

• Flight Operations Support: Support spacecraft on-orbit operations including communications troubleshooting and optimization

• Modeling and Simulation: Develop RF system models and simulations to evaluate communications architectures and performance

• Documentation and Collaboration: Prepare RF system documentation including design specifications, test procedures, interface control documents, and technical reports

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field required

• Experience: 3-10 years of related experience

• Clearance Requirement: Secret, TS/SCI

• Required Skills: Strong knowledge of RF engineering principles including electromagnetic theory, transmission lines, antennas, and propagation; proficiency with RF simulation and analysis tools; experience with RF test equipment; understanding of spacecraft communications systems and protocols; knowledge of antenna design and analysis for space applications; experience with link budget analysis and RF performance calculations; familiarity with space communication standards and protocols; strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail; excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation; ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams; willingness to travel to other Government facilities, contractor locations, and launch sites as required