Senior Staff RF Test Engineer

About the role

The Senior Staff RF Test Engineer will lead RF testing of both current production hardware and newly developed spacecraft RF hardware. This role involves developing and managing testing campaigns, implementing improvements to testing processes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues.

Responsibilities

• Development and management of high-value component/subsystem testing campaigns
• Recommend and implement improvements to testing processes and methodologies
• Aid system team in development of practical and measurable product requirements
• Monitor and maintain test equipment and ensure facility capabilities to support testing activities are in place
• Mentor a team of test engineers and technicians
• Analyze test results, and provide detailed reports to relevant stakeholders
• Work with design team to incorporate changes in system design to meet requirements
• Integration and test of RF components and subassemblies
• Verification and troubleshooting of RF subsystems through all phases of spacecraft integration
• Identify testing methods, develop test plans, and design GSE for risk mitigation and requirements verification and/or validation
• Develop/maintain/improve test scripts within an existing test automation framework
• Analyze test data and provide recommendations for improvements in both test quality and efficiency
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues
• Conduct environmental testing to ensure performance in various conditions
• Participate in design reviews and provide input on testability
• Adhere to safety and quality standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree + 12 years related experience, or master's degree + 8 years related experience
• Extensive hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systems
• Expert knowledge of equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators
• Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, LabVIEW) for test automation
• Strong understanding of RF system architectures, figures of merit, and common impairments
• Strong understanding of RF principles, including signal propagation, modulation techniques, and antenna theory
• Hands-on experience working with RF PCB-based circuits
• Experience and comfort handling and operating spacecraft flight hardware safely
• Familiarity with spacecraft architecture and cross-functional engineering stakeholders
• A methodical approach to testing and problem solving of complex systems
• A track record of safe and effective testing of complex systems
• Experience leading teams and mentoring junior engineers
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations
• Experience operating in a contamination- and ESD-sensitive environment
• Experience testing high-power RF electronics

Required Qualifications

• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.