Associate RF Engineer

Kratos Defense

Birmingham, AL

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Acceptance Testing, Algorithms, Analysis Skills, Antenna, Budget Management, Calibration, Communication Skills, Customer Support/Service, Data Processing, Detail Oriented, Electrical Components, Electrical Design, Electrical Engineering, Field Trials, Hardware Design, Identify Issues, Instrumentation, MATLAB, Maintenance - Electrical, Mathematics, Network Performance/Analysis, Oscilloscope, Physical Demands, Physics, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Product Demonstration, Purchasing/Procurement, Radio Frequency, Requirements Management, Schematics, Security Clearance, Spectrum Analyzers, Statistics, System Operations, Team Player, Test Equipment, Test Plan/Schedule, Testing, Time Management, Trade Studies, United States Citizen, United States Department of Defense (DoD), Waveforms, Willing to Travel, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Birmingham, AL
POSTED
Today

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

This full-time position is in the Systems Development Department and is a highly motivated role that will participate in the testing and of electronic and radio-frequency (RF) systems for applications within the department. This position includes hands?on field work and live test/demonstration support at customer and test ranges, providing direct exposure to real?world RF environments and scenarios.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Document detailed schematics of RF architectures.
  • Perform RF benchtop testing using signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzer, oscilloscopes, and power meters.
  • Support the setup, calibration, and operation of RF systems at field tests, live demonstrations, and range events, including antenna deployment, RF cabling, and test instrumentation.
  • Troubleshoot RF hardware, cabling, and test equipment under time?constrained, real?world conditions, coordinating closely with engineering teams.
  • Develop and perform test procedures to validate new RF hardware.
  • Analyze and interpret signals and waveforms.
  • Process data using statistical tools, fitting algorithms, etc.
  • Design, implement, maintain, and improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, components, products, and systems.
  • Document each research stage in a clear and concise manner with figures that efficiently communicate the results.
  • Interface with engineers and scientists of varying disciplines during the design of new systems.
  • Participate in team assemblies to analyze, develop requirements, and make recommendations for moderate to complex systems.
  • Prepare specifications for purchase of components and equipment.
  • Perform trade studies on components for RF systems.
  • Ensure individual responsibilities within projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget.
  • Travel to customer sites, field locations, and deployment sites as required, potentially including OCONUS locations (estimated 25-50%)

Other Job Functions

  • Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.
  • Strong analytical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
  • Performs other duties as required by supervisor.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.


Keyword: Associate RF Engineer
Required Experience:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Attention to Detail Ensures details of assigned tasks are followed.
  • Quality Orientation Accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved; not matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes, procedures, and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
  • Planning and Organization Systematically identified issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives.
  • Technical Expertise Applies functional knowledge, skills, experience, and judgement to accomplish a result, serve customers better and contribute to the organizations intellectual capital.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required Qualifications:

  • US Citizenship required.
  • Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DOD) SECRET
  • BS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics with 0-2 years experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with MATLAB.
  • Digital and/or analog electrical hardware design.
  • Strong mathematical/analytical problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work Environment & Conditions

This position involves work in an office and laboratory environment and could require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including:

  • Safety glasses
  • Hearing protection (varies based on tasks)
  • Shoe covers

Physical Demands

In performing the work for this position, the engineer must be able to:

  • Perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
  • Sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
  • Climb ladders and stairs in performing the work.

From: Kratos Defense

About the Company

K

Kratos Defense