RF Systems and Satellite Communications Engineer

About the role

We are seeking an RF systems engineer to design, analyze, and develop NASA and DoD’s next-generation spacecraft. You will join a hard-working team of engineers contributing to our nation’s critical challenges in a culture that values integrity, expertise, collaboration, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Perform conceptual systems design, simulation, link analysis, hardware trade studies, technical tradeoffs, and costing for satellite communications and RF system design concepts for both space and ground segments.
• Collaborate with mission and spacecraft systems engineers, peer subsystem engineers, and project management throughout mission development and execution—from concept to launch—including technical design, requirements, development phases, technical reviews, budget development, and schedule.
• Lead technical teams through the RF systems development cycle, including system concept, trade studies, prototype work, flight development, integration, and test.
• Assist project and program management in sponsor engagement.

Requirements

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• 5+ years of direct experience in satellite RF communications and RF systems design, development, simulation (MATLAB, SystemVue, or equivalent), and operations.
• Experience in RF hardware design and/or testing.
• Willingness and ability to accommodate flexible hours for spacecraft-level testing activities for short periods, and infrequent travel to customer, sponsor, or integration/test sites.
• Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance by your start date and ultimately qualify for a TS/SCI+poly level clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.

Qualifications (Preferred)

• PhD in Electrical Engineering with previous RF systems design leadership experience.
• Experience with software-defined radios (SDR), antennas, RF characterization and measurements to Ka-band or beyond, radar systems design, or military satellite communications systems.
• Ability to work independently without technical oversight.
• Additional skills: Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) design, RF/microwave circuit design, Digital Signal Processing (DSP), SIGINT, precision timing and time transfer, radar design.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. Our culture fosters innovation, collaboration, and personal growth, offering a welcoming atmosphere where employees can thrive. APL provides generous benefits, including education assistance, robust retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. Located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, APL is committed to diversity and inclusion.

Pay

Minimum rate: $105,000 annually. Maximum rate: $290,000 annually. Actual compensation may vary based on geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training, skill level, and internal parity. Additional compensation may include bonuses, sign-on bonuses, relocation benefits, locality allowance, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans and paid time off.
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts and education assistance.
• Training and development opportunities.