Senior Antenna Design Engineer
E-Space · Santa Clara, CA · 2 days ago
On-siteEngineering$160k–$195k/yrFull-time
Ready to make connectivity from space universally accessible, secure and actionable? Then you’ve come to the right place! E-Space is bridging Earth and space to enable hyper-scaled deployments of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and services. We are building a highly-advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) space system that will fundamentally change the design, economics, manufacturing and service delivery associated with traditional satellite and terrestrial IoT systems. We’re intentional, we’re unapologetically curious and we’re 100% committed to innovate space-based communications and deliver actionable intelligence that will expand global economies, protect space and our planet and enhance our overall quality of life. As a Senior Antenna Design Engineer, you will own the end-to-end design, simulation, and validation of advanced antenna systems for E-Space’s LEO satellite constellation and ground infrastructure. You are expected to independently design antennas using full-wave electromagnetic simulation tools, with HFSS as a primary design environment, and drive designs from concept through hardware validation. On-site in California or Texas. Some travel between sites may be required. What you will do: Antenna Architecture and DesignLead the end-to-end design of antenna systems for spaceborne and/or ground-based applicationsIndependently design antennas and phased array systems using ANSYS HFSS, from initial concept through final layoutDefine antenna architectures supporting beamforming, beam steering, and multi-beam operationDesign and optimize phased array antennas, including element design, array layout, feed networks, and radiation pattern controlPerform antenna trade studies considering performance, size, weight, power, thermal, and manufacturability constraintsSimulation, Analysis, and OptimizationPerform detailed full-wave EM simulations in HFSS to evaluate gain, efficiency, bandwidth, polarization, sidelobe levels, and mutual couplingOptimize antenna designs to meet system-level requirements such as coverage, link budget, and interference mitigationUse MATLAB or Python for post-processing, parametric sweeps, and design automationHardware Development and TestingWork closely with RF, mechanical, and manufacturing teams to transition HFSS designs into physical hardwareSupport antenna prototyping, integration, and validation testingDefine and execute antenna test plans, including chamber, range, and over-the-air (OTA) measurementsAnalyze measurement results and correlate test data with HFSS simulation resultsCross-Functional Collaboration and LeadershipCollaborate closely with Systems Engineers, RF Engineers, Payload Engineers, and Network Design teams to ensure antenna designs meet end-to-end system requirementsProvide technical mentorship and design guidance to junior engineersHelp establish antenna design standards, workflows, and best practices across the organization Technical Requirements: Antenna and RF FundamentalsStrong background in antenna theory, electromagnetics, and RF engineeringDeep experience with phased array antennas and beamforming techniquesSimulation and Design ToolsExpert-level proficiency with ANSYS HFSS for antenna design and simulationExperience with additional EM tools (CST, FEKO) is a plusProficiency with MATLAB and/or Python for analysis and automationHardware and MeasurementHands-on experience with antenna prototyping, integration, and testingExperience with phased array antenna calibration techniques and proceduresFamiliarity with RF test equipment and antenna measurement techniques, including near-field and far-field chamber testing What you bring to this role: Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related field, with a focus on Antennas, Electromagnetics, and RF Systems7+ years of hands-on antenna design experience, including full-wave EM simulationDemonstrated ability to independently design antennas and take designs to hardwareStrong system-level thinking and ability to translate requirements into high-performance antenna solutionsExcellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills Bonus Points: Experience designing antennas for space or aerospace applicationsFamiliarity with LEO satellite systems and non-terrestrial networks (NTN)Experience with active electronically steered arrays (AESA)Knowledge of space-qualification, environmental testing, and manufacturing constraints Additional Requirements This is a fast-paced, high-impact environment - flexibility to occasionally work extended hours or weekends during critical periods is expected. $160,000 - $195,000 a year This is a full time, exempt position, based out of our Saratoga, CA facility or Arlington, TX facility. The target base pay for this position is $160,000 - $195,000 annually. The total compensation packaged will be determined by various factors such as your relevant job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We are redefining how satellites are designed, manufactured and used—so we’re looking for candidates with passion, deep knowledge and direct experience on LEO satellite component development, design and in-orbit activities. If that’s your experience – then we’ll be immediately wow-ed. E-Space is not currently able to provide employment sponsorship for candidates who do not hold work authorization for the location of this role. Why E-Space is right for you: As a member of our team, you will play a crucial role in driving our success. Our team members have a strong sense of dedication and responsibility; this includes a strong commitment to our mission to create an entirely new suite of global capabilities to improve lives, business efficiencies and build a smarter planet. This means that there will be times when extra hours, including nights and weekends, may be needed to meet critical deadlines and mission goals. In return, we offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a high-growth industry. We want you to make the most of your journey at E-Space. That’s why we support and invest in the physical, emotional and financial well-being of our team members and their families. Some of what you can expect when working at E-Space: An opportunity to really make a difference Sustainability at our core Fair and honest workplace Innovative thinking is encouraged Competitive salaries Continuous learning and development Health and wellness care options Financial solutions for the future Optional legal services (US only) Paid holidays Paid time off We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.