Design/Development Engineer

Microwave Power Products (MPP)•Palo Alto, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Microwave Power Products (MPP) is seeking an experienced, hands-on RF/Microwave Engineer to own high-power vacuum devices (TWTs, klystrons, magnetrons) from concept to production. This is a high-growth opportunity designed for an engineer ready to step into a senior role, with a passion for mentoring and solving complex problems. MPP, acquired by TransDigm Group, impacts critical industries like defense, aerospace, and medical technology, driving process improvement and production efficiency where quality and performance are paramount.

Requirements

Ability to obtain a U.S. DoD Security Clearance.
Applicants must be able to comply with applicable export control requirements.
For security clearance position, the candidate must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Security Clearance as required, holding a security clearance is a plus.

Nice To Haves

A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline (Master’s degree with relevant technology, a plus)
2-8 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing or development engineering environment, ideally with exposure to RF/microwave vacuum devices
Proficiency in SolidWorks (or equivalent solid modeling software), AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite
Deep knowledge of RF/microwave concepts, vacuum science, and engineering analysis techniques
Demonstrated ability to manage complex engineering programs independently and take initiative to resolve ambiguous technical problems
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Responsibilities

Lead projects and hands-on design work for high-power RF and microwave vacuum electron devices (e.g klystrons, magnetrons, and helix/CCT TWTs, etc.), taking products from concept through build, test, and release to production.
Use SolidWorks to design and revise mechanical components and assemblies.
Gain working knowledge of and participate in high-vacuum processes, brazing, cathode assembly, and high-voltage RF test procedures.
Independently lead engineering projects from design through prototyping, testing, and transition to production.
Engage with program management and production teams to ensure that technical goals are met on schedule and within budget.
Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, program management, and quality teams.
Serve as the technical lead on product or process initiatives.
Troubleshoot performance issues, identify root causes, and implement engineering solutions with cross-functional stakeholders.
Mentor junior engineers and technicians by sharing best practices and reviewing feedback.
Provide design reviews, hands-on coaching, and informal training.
Develop engineering documentation including work instructions, test plans, and process flows that improve repeatability and product quality.
Own engineering documentation, drawings, and bill of materials.
Support and contribute to engineering change orders (ECOs) and design validation processes for hardware transitioning from R&D into production.
Lead or support initiatives focused on product cost reduction, yield improvement, and design-for-manufacturability.