RF Engineer, Transceiver Design

About the role

Viasat is seeking an experienced RF Engineer to contribute to gateway transceiver systems and integrated phased array RF assemblies. This role involves hands-on engineering across frequency conversion design, component sourcing, and single-PWB distribution networks.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop Ka-band frequency conversion architectures, including up-converter and down-converter assemblies, maximizing spectral purity and signal integrity.
• Perform RF analysis, simulation, and validation (using tools like ADS, HFSS, or Genesys) to ensure compliance with system-level gain, noise figure, linearity, and spur requirements.
• Lead schematic capture and layout implementation for the integrated RF assembly on a single Printed Wiring Board (PWB), optimizing high-frequency routing and decoupling networks.
• Define and optimize the RF distribution network for the phased array, managing complex splitting/combining networks and front-end/back-end driver stages.
• Generate technical specifications for external components, including the procurement and qualification of Power Amplifiers (PAs) and the integration of internal Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs).
• Support the integration and calibration of the Ka-band transceiver with the phased array antenna elements to enable full testbed functionality.
• Contribute to RF architecture trade studies, particularly regarding frequency planning, filter placement, thermal management, and PWB material selection for millimeter-wave frequencies.
• Interface with PWB fabrication and assembly partners to ensure strict adherence to manufacturing tolerances, layer stack-up requirements, and component placement guidelines.
• Participate in RF design reviews, test readiness reviews, and lab characterization using vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
• Identify RF performance risks (e.g., cross-talk, substrate losses, element-to-element coupling, parasitic oscillations) and develop robust mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of RF engineering experience supporting millimeter-wave or transceiver hardware development.
• Demonstrated expertise in up-converter/down-converter design and active component specification (PAs and LNAs).
• Experience with phased array architectures, corporate feed networks, and high-frequency PWB integration.
• Ability to work independently on defined technical problems with minimal instruction.
• Experience working with vendors and manufacturing partners, including PCB fabricators and component suppliers.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a United States Security Clearance.

Skills

• Strong analytical skills and disciplined documentation practices.
• Clear communication of complex RF, transceiver, and phased array topics to cross-disciplinary teams.

Benefits

The salary range for this role is $120,500.00 - $190,000.00 / annually. For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range is $149,500.00- $224,500.00/ annually. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat’s comprehensive benefit offerings at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.