RF/Microwave Engineer - Senior Member of Technical Staff

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

2d•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. At the Mission Payloads Division (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! The Communication Electronics Department is looking for an RF/Microwave Engineer who wants their work to matter – someone ready to own projects across the lifecycle of analysis, design, and measurement that will transform the next generation of RF and microwave space systems. Why We're Different: Ownership. Not just "contributor to slide 47 of a PowerPoint." You'll lead projects that shape and define the future of space. Flexibility that respects your capabilities. Choose your approach; experiment and iterate. We trust you to solve hard problems your way. Collegial, not corporate. Think academic research lab meets mission-critical engineering. We collaborate across disciplines, debate and share ideas, and foster an open and curious culture. Two-way learning. We'll invest in your growth—and we genuinely want to learn from your expertise. The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline
Five or more years related (including post graduate studies) technical experience in any of the following microwave engineering areas
Microwave circuit theory using ADS OR Microwave Office
Relevant experience with radar, sensor, and/or communication hardware and systems
Data analysis with Python OR MATLAB
Microwave or millimeter-wave circuits and hardware
Experience with manual and remote operation of network analyzers, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators and other instrumentation
Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving, handling ambiguity and imperfectly defined problems, an ability to rapidly grasp new concepts, and excellent written/verbal communication skills
Ability to engage others and influence technical decisions
Willing to travel domestically approximately 10%
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI US security clearance, which is issued by the US government
US citizenship is required
Seven or more years of relevant experience in communication or radar hardware (for Engineering Specialist)
Mentoring of junior personnel (for Engineering Specialist)
Technical team leadership (for Engineering Specialist)

Nice To Haves

Current SECRET or TS/SCI clearances
Experience operating high-power microwave amplifiers
Work with waveguide components
Experience with frequency-converting components (mixers, multipliers, modulators)

Responsibilities

Shape the future of space hardware – Provide expert guidance on radar, sensor, and communication payloads that contractors build for critical government missions
Master the art of measurement – employ advanced microwave measurement techniques and operate specialized microwave test equipment
Build what doesn't exist yet – Create RF payload prototypes and emulators that bridge the gap between theory and orbit
Model complex systems – Generate performance budgets and run circuit simulations (ADS, Microwave Office) that predict how systems will behave before a single component is soldered
Become an anomaly detective – When hardware misbehaves (and it will), you'll be the one who combines analytical rigor with hands-on experimentation to find out why
Collaborate in real-time and space – Work side-by-side with talented engineers and technicians to solve the hardest problems in the space enterprise

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