Principal RF Engineer Verified today

Position Overview

Support the design, analysis, and optimization of advanced satellite-based communications systems. You will develop RF performance models, link budgets, and coverage analyses to evaluate end-to-end network performance across space and ground segments. Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to assess system performance, optimize network availability, and support reliable, high-capacity communications solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and analyze uplink and downlink link budgets, including EIRP, G/T, path loss, atmospheric effects, antenna performance, fade margins, and system availability.
• Create RF performance models to evaluate end-to-end communications performance under various operational and environmental conditions.
• Analyze phased array antenna performance, including beamforming, scan loss, sidelobe behavior, coverage patterns, and beam isolation.
• Evaluate the effects of Doppler shifts, propagation delays, latency, and user device constraints on network performance and capacity.
• Collaborate with network, systems, and radio engineering teams to assess modulation, coding schemes, throughput, and overall service performance.
• Develop and maintain feeder link analyses using industry-standard propagation models to evaluate weather impacts and network availability.
• Assess and optimize fade mitigation techniques such as adaptive coding and modulation (ACM), power control strategies, and diversity solutions.
• Perform system availability, sensitivity, and trade-off analyses to support infrastructure planning and performance optimization.
• Analyze RF hardware impairments, including interference, phase noise, amplifier non-linearity, and other factors affecting system performance.
• Develop simulations, analytical tools, dashboards, and reports to support engineering studies and operational assessments.
• Establish performance requirements, validate design assumptions, and support verification activities throughout the development lifecycle.
• Support troubleshooting efforts by developing performance baselines and assisting in root cause investigations.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on RF system analysis, architecture trade studies, and engineering best practices.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
• Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline preferred.
• Relevant industry certifications or specialized training in RF engineering, wireless communications, or satellite communications a plus.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in RF systems engineering, satellite communications, wireless communications, or communications link analysis.
• Experience developing and maintaining communication system link budgets and RF performance models.
• Experience working with complex RF systems and multi-segment communications architectures.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical analyses, trade studies, and cross-functional engineering initiatives.
• Experience supporting communications infrastructure deployment, optimization, or operational performance assessments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with satellite communications, non-terrestrial networks (NTN), or advanced wireless communication systems.
• Familiarity with atmospheric propagation modeling and communications availability analysis methodologies.
• Knowledge of adaptive coding and modulation, power control systems, and diversity techniques.
• Experience with phased array antennas, beamforming architectures, and antenna calibration concepts.
• Familiarity with systems engineering methodologies, requirements management, and performance validation processes.
• Graduate-level coursework or advanced education in RF engineering, communications systems, or signal processing.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to technical accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated with a continuous learning mindset.

Technology Stack

• MATLAB
• Python
• RF modeling and simulation tools
• Link budget analysis software
• Data analysis and visualization tools
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Statistical modeling and reporting tools
• Version control systems (e.g., Git)
• Engineering collaboration and documentation platforms

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to analyze complex technical data and review detailed engineering documentation.
• Ability to participate in technical meetings, presentations, and collaborative design reviews.
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods while performing analysis, modeling, and documentation activities.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

Additional Information

• Occasional travel may be required to support engineering reviews, testing activities, or operational sites.
• Must work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and technical priorities simultaneously while meeting deadlines.