RF Systems Engineer- Wireless and Satellite Communications

University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

1d•$104,000 - $174,000•Onsite

About The Position

Support the development of next-generation wireless communication systems, including HF radio networks, 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and satellite-based links in the Advanced Technology Laboratory. Contribute to modeling, design, integration, and field testing of RF systems and subsystems. The position welcomes candidates with deep expertise in two or more core technical areas: communications networking, signal processing, FPGA/HDL design, and RF circuit and antenna design. The role involves developing signal-processing chains and communications networking software, designing and assessing RF circuits and antennas, and testing RF systems in laboratory and field environments. It also includes presenting technical results to stakeholders and documenting developed components and subsystems. The position requires U.S. citizenship and eligibility for access to classified information at the level appropriate to project requirements. Work is performed under standard office conditions, with possible travel and some weekend, evening, and holiday work.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline, with emphasis on electromagnetics, microwaves, signal processing, or communication systems.
At least three years of related experience.
Proficiency with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, and signal generators, and laboratory measurement techniques.
Demonstrated knowledge of the RF spectrum, propagation, and associated environmental effects.
Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and test in at least two of the following areas: digital signal processing for communications; FPGA design and hardware description languages (VHDL/Verilog); communications networking concepts and protocol implementation; RF circuit and/or antenna design.
Experience preparing and delivering technical presentations and written documentation.
Dynamic skill set and willingness to work with new technologies; strong organization, planning, coordination, and time-management skills.
Attention to detail, effective problem-solving skills, and sound judgment.
Ability to work independently with sensitive and confidential information, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without daily supervision, communicate effectively with all groups of clients, work under pressure, and accept supervision.
Regular and punctual attendance.
U.S. citizenship.
Must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to project requirements; selected applicant will undergo a government security investigation.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Physics or Electrical Engineering with an emphasis on electromagnetics, microwaves, signal processing, or communication systems.
More than seven years of related experience.
Direct experience with 5G, including non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and/or satellite communication systems (SATCOM, LEO/MEO/GEO links).
Direct experience with HF radios.
Hardware/software co-design experience, such as implementing DSP algorithms in FPGAs.
Experience with software-defined radio (SDR) platforms and over-the-air testing.
Practical experience with antenna design across a range of topologies.
Software development experience in Python, C/C++, or MATLAB for RF systems modeling, simulation, or test automation.
Cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement communication-system signal-processing chains, including sampling, equalization, modulation/demodulation, and forward error correction, in software, programmable hardware (FPGA/HDL), or both.
Design and implement communications networking software and protocols for wireless and SATCOM systems.
Design, assess, and develop RF circuits, antennas, and associated components, including matching networks, duplexers, filters, amplifiers, and mixers.
Develop and test low- and high-power RF and analog circuits and subsystems.
Test RF elements, subsystems, and full systems in laboratory and field environments using modern RF test equipment.
Prepare and deliver technical presentations on results, designs, and trade studies to internal and external project stakeholders.
Document all developed components and subsystems.
Perform other related functions as assigned.