Sr. RF Engineer - Space RCO

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we deliver innovative solutions spanning satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers.

About the Role

The Defense Systems Group (DSG) provides analysis-based decision support to senior leaders on space architectures, policy and strategy, technology development, warfighter capability enablers, systems integration, defense industrial base, and threat reduction. DSG supports major customers including the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Space Command, Air Force Material Command, and senior leadership at the Pentagon, while also providing technical support across the national space enterprise.

The Sr. Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer in the Responsive Space Branch within the Agile Acquisition Directorate (AAD) will support the program office acquiring a critical space system for the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO). The Space RCO rapidly develops and fields highly classified critical space capabilities. This role will participate in all phases of a system lifecycle to ensure delivery of an operationally dominant space capability at the speed of warfighting relevance. The selected candidate will work full-time, on-site at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, NM.

Responsibilities

• Support program reviews, design, development, test, and transition to operations efforts
• Act as principal technical representative directly supporting Program Manager (O-5)
• Ensure implementation of requirements for system design, mission concept of operations, prototype and test, initial checkout, operations, and operational transition support
• Analyze and implement radio frequency (RF) designs
• Oversee development, test, and manufacture of RF equipment
• Provide mission assurance and assist with integration efforts
• Witness critical test efforts, verifying procedures and plans are followed appropriately
• Support integration and test anomaly investigations, providing key expertise in protecting schedule, cost, and hardware
• Identify risk areas and mitigation efforts to meet mission objectives
• Represent SpRCO’s interest in Aerospace backplane communications
• Solicit and oversee subject matter experts from the Aerospace Engineering Technical Group (ETG) to employ their expertise on critical problems
• Work closely with a diverse team of military, government civilians, prime contractors, SE&I contractors, FFRDCs, and National Laboratories

Requirements

• BS degree in engineering, mathematics, or physical sciences (or equivalent combination of training and experience)
• 12 or more years of progressively responsible experience in systems engineering, program management, or other technical fields
• Proven work experience as an RF Engineer or similar role
• Strong knowledge of RF systems, RF test equipment, RF test procedures, and RF principles
• Demonstrated ability to form and lead teams
• Ability to work in a highly dynamic Program Office environment with government, FFRDC, and SETA personnel
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; experience presenting and writing technical information
• Travel required (10-25%)
• Current TS/SCI security clearance with SAP eligibility (issued by the US Government; U.S. citizenship required)

Qualifications

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Advanced degree in technical subject area (engineering, science, or math)
• Systems Engineering experience with rapid operational systems
• An excellent personal technical reputation and a record of personal technical achievement
• Program office experience
• Experience preparing data packages for and working through spectrum management/frequency approval processes

Pay

The grade-based pay range for this job is $166,400.00 - $249,600.00 annually.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; immediately eligible and vested upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs
• Education assistance programs