Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead

About the Role

Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave, and software-defined radio systems come together to enable resilient and high-performance space missions. That expertise becomes essential as you architect and guide the development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads, integrate space-qualified components across wide frequency ranges, and ensure reliable performance under the stringent constraints of the space environment.

At Booz Allen, you'll apply your RF engineering experience to shape RF mission payloads designed to dynamically adapt to support custom waveforms. Our team develops mission-focused space technologies, from RF architecture and link analysis to payload integration, bus interfaces, and end-to-end system modeling. That's why we need you, an experienced RF payload leader who can drive RF subsystem architecture, guide antenna and front-end development, and collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to build a payload that meets demanding standards and mission assurance requirements for space vehicles.

On our team, you'll lead technical efforts from concept through flight-ready implementation, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR-based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing. Your work will directly impact the mission by enabling adaptable RF mission applications and reliable performance across evolving scenarios. You'll also mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission's technical roadmap. Take on this challenge in the rapidly evolving space sector as we advance resilient and scalable RF space payload capabilities that support mission critical objectives.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads for next-generation space vehicles
• Architect and guide the development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads
• Integrate space-qualified components across wide frequency ranges
• Ensure reliable performance under the stringent constraints of the space environment
• Shape RF mission payloads designed to dynamically adapt to support custom waveforms
• Drive RF subsystem architecture and guide antenna and front-end development
• Collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to meet demanding standards and mission assurance requirements
• Lead technical efforts from concept through flight-ready implementation
• Perform RF circuit and antenna design and integrate SDR-based capabilities
• Support verification activities including environmental, functional, and performance testing
• Mentor junior engineers and strengthen engineering rigor efforts
• Help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission's technical roadmap
• Develop mission-focused space technologies, from RF architecture and link analysis to payload integration, bus interfaces, and end-to-end system modeling
• Manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines while working in a team environment
• Troubleshoot and debug RF hardware

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience with RF or microwave circuit design, including amplifiers, mixers, oscillators, filters, and antennas and metrics such as SNR and NF
• Experience designing custom RF hardware or integrating COTS RF hardware through simulation, fabrication, testing, and optimization stages of product development for Space Payloads
• Experience with advanced RF or microwave design techniques such as electromagnetic (EM) simulation
• Experience with RF measurement and testing tools, including spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators
• Experience with design and RF simulation tools such as AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, or FEKO
• Knowledge of AS9100 standards, mission assurance practices, and space hardware workmanship guidelines
• Ability to troubleshoot and debug RF hardware
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines and work in a team environment
• Top Secret clearance
• Bachelor's degree

Nice If You Have

• Experience with national security satellite systems for SIGINT or GEOINT
• Experience leading and managing small to medium-sized engineering teams
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, and GitHub for signal processing applications, software, and algorithm development
• Experience with descriptive MBSE tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture
• Knowledge of lab automation and scripting to streamline testing processes and data acquisition
• Possession of excellent verbal and written communication skills
• TS/SCI clearance
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred; Master's degree in Engineering a plus

Pay

The projected compensation range for this position is $99,000.00 to $225,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.

Benefits

• Health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits
• Paid leave
• Professional development
• Tuition assistance
• Work-life programs
• Dependent care
• Recognition awards program acknowledging employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of company values
• Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs; individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits