RF Communication Engineer III, In Space Systems (ISS)
About The Position
The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. As part of our RF Communications team, you'll have end-to-end ownership of next-generation spacecraft RF and optical communication systems, from analysis and design through manufacturing, test, and on-orbit operations. This isn't a narrow role — your fingerprints will be on the full subsystem lifecycle, including specifications, procurement, AI&T execution, and mission support. We're looking for a sharp RF engineer with a foundation in satellite communications and systems engineering who thrives in a fast-paced environment and isn't afraid to lead.
Requirements
- B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics or related technical subject area
- At least 4+ years of experience in avionics and communication systems development and verification
- Knowledge of communication systems for system design, radios, antennas, RF components, waveforms.
- Experience performing electromagnetic (EM) simulations using tools like HFSS, CST, or TICRA to optimize antenna performance and coverage
- Excellent verbal, written, and graphical communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast paced, dynamic work environment
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Nice To Haves
- M.S. in Electrical Engineering, or related technical subject area
- Experience performing satellite link budget simulations using mission design tools such as ANSYS Systems Tool Kit (STK)
- 3+ years of experience with SATCOM, microwave LOS, or other RF communications systems
- Knowledge of RF circuit design, layout, fabrication, and testing.
- Proficiency in waveform design, algorithms development (including Matlab/Simulink simulations) or networking.
- Experience with software tools such as DOORS Next Generation, Cameo, Confluence, JIRA, Git, Creo, and Windchill
Responsibilities
- Architect and deploy mission-critical RF communications systems — from concept through checkout — enabling real-time telemetry, video, and data flows for reusable spacecraft operations
- Own end-to-end system performance, including link budget, phase noise, coverage analyses, and requirements verification across all phases of flight
- Design and execute RF test campaigns spanning bench, integrated systems, and field environments to validate hardware against specifications and ensure full interoperability
- Drive procurement strategy from supplier vetting and selection through ongoing management, ensuring hardware meets rigorous mission requirements
- Define and maintain system architecture, including sizing, requirements derivation, and performance parameters for next-generation communications solutions
- Coordinate critical interfaces across space relay platforms, ground stations, and internal C&DH/payload subsystems to ensure seamless end-to-end connectivity
- Own configuration control and documentation, maintaining detailed functional/logical diagrams, asset inventories, and procedures that keep fast-moving programs on track
- Be in the action — support hardware integration labs, vehicle testing, peer reviews, and sit on-console during Launch and Early Operations to see your work fly
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
- Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
- Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
