RF Test Engineer

Muon Space•San Jose, CA

60d•$138,000 - $158,000

About The Position

Muon is looking for an AIT RF Test Engineer to support subsystem-level testing and the integration and testing of spacecraft RF systems. You'll plan and execute RF tests, operate specialized test equipment, and ensure system performance meets mission requirements. This role is hands-on and highly collaborative, working closely with design, systems, and test teams across the spacecraft program lifecycle.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related technical discipline.
3-7 years of experience in RF systems testing, preferably in aerospace, satellite, or defense environments.
Strong knowledge of RF fundamentals, including S-parameters, link budgets, and antenna performance metrics.
Proficiency in using RF test instruments (VNA, spectrum analyzer, signal generator, etc.) and associated automation tools.
Familiarity with test environments such as anechoic chambers, thermal vacuum chambers, and EMC test facilities.
Experience with RF cables, connectors, and calibration techniques.
Strong analytical and documentation skills, with attention to detail and data accuracy.
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities in cross-functional environments.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting spacecraft or satellite RF systems (TT&C, payload, crosslink, or telemetry).
Experience automating tests with LabVIEW, Python, or MATLAB.
Understanding of EMC/EMI testing and requirements.
Familiarity with MIL-STD, NASA, or ECSS test standards.

Responsibilities

Plan, develop, and execute spacecraft-level and subsystem-level RF tests, including link performance, antenna pattern, and RF functional testing.
Configure, operate, and troubleshoot RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, signal generators, vector network analyzers (VNAs), power meters, and RF switch matrices.
Develop and maintain detailed test procedures, setup schematics, and data analysis tools.
Support RF hardware integration, including antenna installation, RF harness connections, and test setup verification.
Work with design, systems, and mission operations teams to define and validate RF test configurations and parameters.
Perform data reduction, analysis, and report generation for test results and anomalies.
Support troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for RF system anomalies.
Ensure compliance with test safety procedures and RF exposure requirements.
Contribute to process improvements and lessons learned for future spacecraft AIT programs.