RF Engineer

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

This full-time position is in the Systems Development Department and is a highly motivated role that will participate in the design and implementation 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. This role offers a blend of lab, field, and customer?facing work, ideal for engineers who want technical depth in RF plus exposure to systems engineering, integration, and testing.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• • Perform RF benchtop testing using signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzer, oscilloscopes, and power meters.
  • Lead RF experimentation efforts at field sites under the guidance of senior engineers, providing early opportunities for technical ownership.
  • 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.
  • Assist in developing test execution plans and quick?reaction procedures tailored to field environments (e.g., limited power, site constraints, etc.).
  • Maintain detailed configuration records for fielded test setups (equipment IDs, cable runs, firmware versions, settings) to enable repeatable tests.
  • Capture field lessons learned and feed them back into design, test procedures, and documentation to improve future deployments and demonstrations.
  • Develop and perform test procedures to validate new RF hardware and control software.
  • Analyze and interpret signals and waveforms.
  • 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.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Strong hands on troubleshooting skills with RF chains in the field (e.g., identifying connector, cable, and impedance issues; diagnosing signal anomalies under real world interference).
• Comfortable interacting directly with customers and range personnel; able to represent the RF team professionally in field and demo settings.
• 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
• MS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics or BS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics with 3-5 years experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Comfortable interacting directly with customers and range personnel; able to represent the RF team professionally in field and demo settings.
• Experience with MATLAB.
• Experience working with waveform data in both the frequency and time domains.
• 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