2027 RF / Antenna Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation • Chantilly, VA

16h • Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Aerospace Corporation is hiring an RF/Antenna Engineer for the Digital Electronics and Electromagnetics Department (DEED) in the Mission Payloads Division (MPD). Position will be full-time, and will be at our office in Chantilly, VA. At MPD, we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! Job Summary The Digital Electronics and Electromagnetic Department, a core part of the Communication Systems and Agile Processing sub-division, excels in managing the full communications chain—from RF signals to digital bits. Our expertise encompasses everything from modeling and simulation to RF chain analysis/design and software-defined radio systems. We leverage this deep knowledge to develop satellite payloads, advanced signal collection methods, new modulation schemes, testbed environments, and innovative approaches to antenna design, characterization, and measurement. As a member of the department, you will help solve challenging technical problems in the areas of antenna design, RF systems, and electromagnetics in support of our nation's most critical space and defense missions.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in EE, Physics, or STEM related discipline from an accredited university, pursuing or conferring within 12 months.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• 0-1 year of industry work experience
• Knowledge of electromagnetic theory, antenna design fundamentals, and principals of RF communication
• Project / academic experience with EM simulation software such as HFSS, engineering programing languages such as MATLAB or Python, and RF measurement equipment such as network analyzers, signal generators, or spectrum analyzers
• Ability to analyze requirements and document simulation/test results
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government.
• US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
• Transcripts required

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. in EE, Physics, or STEM related discipline from an accredited university, pursuing or conferring within 12 months.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to convey complex technical information to cross-organization teams with diverse technical backgrounds
• Proficiency in Ansys HFSS, Keysight ADS, TICRA GRASP, and/or GNURadio
• Experience working in a laboratory environment specifying test plans, performing RF and antenna measurements, and analyzing and presenting results
• Deep knowledge / understanding and/or academic research relevant to any of the following: RF/analog electronics and front-end system design
• Design of common antenna types including reflectors, horns, patch antennas, and electronically steered antenna arrays
• Digital signal processing and communication systems theory

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise in the areas of electromagnetics, antennas, and RF systems
• Perform antenna and RF modeling and simulations at component, subsystem and system level
• Utilize laboratory facilities including our anechoic chamber, RF signals lab, HPC simulation resources, and remote testing vehicle for performance testing, prototype development, and contractor oversight
• Gain hands-on experience implementing RF and antenna prototypes, verifying simulating performance, and supporting prototype evaluation and field test work
• Support evaluation and improvement of antenna and RF system designs through test data analysis and simulation correlation
• Participate in cross-functional technical teams supporting customer programs and contractor design reviews in the areas of communications, signals collection, and remote sensing
• Initiate research and development studies designed to solve new technical problems and provide new technical solutions within area of expertise.
• Adapt to changing industry trends and explore new concepts outside your comfort zone.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level