Senior RF Communications Engineer, Blue National Security (BNS) Verified today

About the Role

You'll have end-to-end ownership of next-generation spacecraft RF and optical communication systems, from analysis and design through manufacturing, test, and on-orbit operations. This role spans the full subsystem lifecycle: specifications, procurement, AI&T execution, and mission support.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead RF communications systems as technical lead, mentoring junior engineers and authoring systems documentation
• Architect and deploy mission-critical RF communications systems from concept through checkout for real-time telemetry, video, and data flows
• Own end-to-end system performance, including link budget, phase noise, and coverage analyses across all flight phases
• Design and execute RF test campaigns spanning bench, integrated systems, and field environments
• Drive procurement strategy from supplier vetting through ongoing management
• Define and maintain system architecture, including sizing, requirements, and performance parameters
• Coordinate critical interfaces across space relay platforms, ground stations, and internal subsystems
• Maintain configuration control and detailed functional/logical diagrams and procedures
• Support hardware integration labs, vehicle testing, and console support during launch and early operations

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related technical subject area
• Minimum 8 years of experience in avionics and communication systems development and verification
• Knowledge of communication systems design, radios, antennas, RF components, and waveforms
• Experience performing electromagnetic (EM) simulations using HFSS, CST, or TICRA
• Excellent verbal, written, and graphical communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in fast-paced, dynamic environments
• Demonstrated leadership of technical teams with emphasis on mentoring junior engineers
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related technical subject area
• Experience performing satellite link budget simulations using ANSYS Systems Tool Kit (STK)
• Minimum 5 years of experience with SATCOM, microwave LOS, or RF communications systems
• Knowledge of RF circuit design, layout, fabrication, and testing
• Proficiency in waveform design and algorithms development (Matlab/Simulink simulations) or networking
• Experience with DOORS Next Generation, Cameo, Confluence, JIRA, Git, Creo, and Windchill

Compensation

Base pay range varies by location:

• CA applicants: $197,529.00 to $276,539.55
• CO applicants: $181,626.00 to $254,275.35
• WA applicants: $197,529.00 to $276,539.55
• Other site ranges may differ

What We Offer

• Relocation provided
• Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance
• Paid parental leave, short and long-term disability
• 401(k) with company match up to 5%
• Education Support Program
• Stock Options for all regular employees (20+ hours/week)
• Up to four weeks paid time off per year and up to 14 company-paid holidays
• Travel expected up to 25% of the time

Additional Information

Top Secret clearance desired. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis until requisition closure.