RF Engineer, Transceiver Design

Viasat, Inc. • Carlsbad, CA

2d

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced RF Engineer to contribute to gateway transceiver systems and integrated phased array RF assemblies. This role delivers hands-on engineering across frequency conversion design, component sourcing, and single-PWB distribution networks. The position operates with limited supervision to ensure layout, integration, and performance success.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, or equivalent professional experience
• 5+ years of RF engineering experience supporting millimeter-wave or transceiver hardware development
• Demonstrated expertise in up-converter/down-converter design and active component specification (PAs and LNAs)
• Experience with phased array architectures, corporate feed networks, and high-frequency PWB integration
• Ability to work independently on defined technical problems with minimal instruction
• Experience working with vendors and manufacturing partners, including PCB fabricators and component suppliers
• Ability to obtain and maintain a United States Security Clearance

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting phased array antenna testbeds or millimeter-wave hardware integration
• Familiarity with transceiver up-converter/down-converter integration and lab characterization environments
• Deep understanding of beamforming networks, gain/noise figure budgets, and PWB parasitic analysis
• Strong analytical skills and disciplined documentation practices
• Clear communication of complex RF, transceiver, and phased array topics to cross-disciplinary teams

Responsibilities

• Design and develop Ka-band frequency conversion architectures, including up-converter and down-converter assemblies, maximizing spectral purity and signal integrity.
• Perform RF analysis, simulation, and validation (using tools like ADS, HFSS, or Genesys) to ensure compliance with system-level gain, noise figure, linearity, and spur requirements.
• Lead schematic capture and layout implementation for the integrated RF assembly on a single Printed Wiring Board (PWB), optimizing high-frequency routing and decoupling networks.
• Define and optimize the RF distribution network for the phased array, managing complex splitting/combining networks and front-end/back-end driver stages.
• Generate technical specifications for external components, including the procurement and qualification of Power Amplifiers (PAs) and the integration of internal Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs).
• Support the integration and calibration of the Ka-band transceiver with the phased array antenna elements to enable full testbed functionality.
• Contribute to RF architecture trade studies, particularly regarding frequency planning, filter placement, thermal management, and PWB material selection for millimeter-wave frequencies.
• Interface with PWB fabrication and assembly partners to ensure strict adherence to manufacturing tolerances, layer stack-up requirements, and component placement guidelines.
• Participate in RF design reviews, test readiness reviews, and lab characterization using vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
• Identify RF performance risks (e.g., cross-talk, substrate losses, element-to-element coupling, parasitic oscillations) and develop robust mitigation strategies.

Benefits

• range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered
• comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness

What This Job Offers

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