Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead

About the role

Lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission‑critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles. 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. Drive RF subsystem architecture, guide antenna and front‑end development, and collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to meet demanding standards and mission assurance requirements. 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. Mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission’s technical roadmap.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission‑critical RF payloads for space vehicles.
• Architect and guide development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads, integrating space‑qualified components across wide frequency ranges.
• Ensure reliable performance under stringent space‑environment constraints.
• 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, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR‑based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing.
• Mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission’s technical roadmap.

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 for space payloads.
• Experience with advanced RF/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, meet deadlines, and work in a team environment.
• Top Secret clearance required.
• Bachelor's degree required.

Qualifications (Nice‑to‑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.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• TS/SCI clearance preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred; Master's degree in Engineering a plus.

Benefits

• Health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits.
• Paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work‑life programs, and dependent care.
• Recognition awards program for exceptional performance.
• Eligibility for full‑time and part‑time employees working ≥20 hours/week.

Pay

Projected compensation range: $99,000.00 to $225,000.00 (annualized USD).