RF Communication Systems Engineer

Lanteris Space Systems•Palo Alto, CA

2d•$117,000 - $195,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The RF Communication Systems Engineer (CSE) contributes to the design, integration, and operation of complex communications payload systems, often composed of multiple subsystems and advanced signal‑processing elements. This role supports the definition of system‑level requirements, architecture development, and the establishment of technical processes that ensure hardware and software compatibility across the payload. The engineer identifies, analyzes, and resolves system design challenges while helping shape alternative concepts and next‑generation solutions. As an experienced professional, the Staff CSE applies solid engineering judgment to a wide range of technical issues, developing creative solutions and influencing the evolution of future products. The role involves documenting requirements, design approaches, algorithms, software development and verification, test procedures, and test results in accordance with engineering standards. The engineer frequently collaborates within multidisciplinary teams and engages with internal and external stakeholders to support successful program execution. This position operates with moderate autonomy, receiving limited day‑to‑day direction and general guidance on new assignments.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
B.S. degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related discipline
An additional four years of experience may be substituted for a degree
Minimum of four years of related engineering experience
Experience coding in C, C++, Linux, Python, TCL, or Matlab & creating software tools for verification activities
Experience with software architecture, verification, and validation
General understanding of spacecraft design and product life cycle
Willingness and ability to travel infrequently (up to ~10%) and support off‑shift work as needed
Strong understanding of mathematics and physics as they relate to RF electrical systems and components
Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Nice To Haves

M.S. degree in a specialized engineering or scientific discipline
Experience with RF computer‑aided design tools such as Microwave Office, ADS, or Ansys HFSS
Experience with software‑defined radios or software‑defined modems
Familiarity with FPGA‑based signal‑processing architectures
Experience with GitLab, TortoiseSVN, or other software version control systems
Ability to work effectively in ambiguous environments and open to using new tools to improve processes and efficiency

Responsibilities

Serves as the responsible engineer for a subsystem or major portion of the RF communication systems, with emphasis on integration, test, and verification
Develops system‑level requirements and specifications that guide communication systems design and performance
Participates in system architecture development, including requirements analysis and trade studies
Leads RF communication systems testing and troubleshooting during spacecraft integration and verification phases
Analyzes operational issues and drives corrective actions to closure
Manages internal technical efforts of limited complexity, monitoring progress across cost, schedule, and technical performance
Introduces innovative techniques, tools, or methodologies within the RF engineering domain
Provides technical guidance to teams in identifying design issues and implementing effective solutions
Represents the company in technical discussions with customers and vendors to resolve complex engineering challenges
Collaborates with flight software and ground software groups to develop test rack, software, and software tools to ensure software components work seamlessly with communication system components
Confirm integrated use cases meet specifications and perform as intended for communication systems