Lead RF Engineer
About The Position
KBR seeks a Lead RF Engineer with expertise in signal processing, embedded systems, and cybersecurity to advance our mission-critical programs. The ideal candidate will combine hands-on experience in real-time software development (C/C++, Python), digital signal processing (DSP), and RF engineering with technical leadership skills to mentor teams delivering solutions for environments at the tactical edge. Ideal candidates are eager to build on their expertise in SIGINT applications, real-time SWaP-constrained systems, and AI development to address high-stakes national security challenges. They should demonstrate proven leadership in delivering mission-critical defense solutions and possess hands-on experience in prototype development, from design through implementation, testing, and user transition. Why Join Us? Innovative Projects : At KBR, you'll be working on prototype projects that support the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s most mission-critical objectives. The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace force. Collaborative Environment : KBR fosters a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere where cross-functional teams of product managers, engineers, developers, and defense experts work in unison. We practice Agile and DevOps principles, ensuring rapid iteration, continuous feedback, and integration across all projects. Our team is passionate, forward-thinking, and united by a mission-first mindset that encourages knowledge sharing, innovation, and problem-solving at every level. Impactful Work : Your work here won’t just be limited to software development—it will directly support the Air Force in expanding current national capabilities. As the Air Force's leader for National-to-Tactical capability development, AFRL collaborates with leading experts across the Intelligence Community, Department of Defense, National Laboratories, industry, inter-agency, academia, and partner nations.
Requirements
- Must possess an active U.S. government Top Secret (SCI) security clearance, which only a U.S. citizen can obtain
- PhD or MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields
- 5+ years of experience working on DOD/intelligence programs (SIGINT, SATCOM, RF systems)
- Proficiency in DSP algorithm design, embedded software development (C/C++, Python), and real-time system integration
- Familiarity with RF prototyping tools (e.g., SDR, MATLAB), test environments, and low-level hardware interfaces
- Demonstrated leadership in technical teams, including mentorship of junior staff and program management
Nice To Haves
- Experience with AI/ML for signal analysis or cybersecurity (e.g., ML-enhanced emitter classification)
- Strong commitment to innovation in cyber-physical sensing systems, including field-deployable solutions
Responsibilities
- Lead full-cycle development of real-time, resource-constrained systems (e.g., SDR-based adaptive filtering, GPS spoofing mitigation) using AI/ML and DSP techniques
- Architect and prototype cybersecurity capabilities to counteract SIGINT threats, jamming interference, and target tracking challenges
- Collaborate with stakeholders to design functioning prototypes aligned with operational constraints
- Mentor junior engineers in software development methodologies, technical problem-solving, and embedded software lifecycle management
- Communicate complex concepts clearly to senior leadership and non-specialist audiences
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
