Senior RF Engineer

Sierra Space•Louisville, CO

1d•$137,443 - $188,983

About The Position

The Senior RF Engineer designs, develops, and tests advanced RF systems and components for space-based applications, including antennas, transmitters, receivers, and optics. This role requires specialized expertise in microwave and optical engineering, advanced knowledge of electrical and avionics systems architectures, and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex problems. You will conduct performance testing and validation of optical systems (e.g., optical power amplifiers and splitters), using advanced electrical design tools and methodologies to complete complex design tasks. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, you will help ensure project success and the seamless integration of RF systems into larger platforms. As a Responsible Engineer (RE), you will own discrete technical packages and drive them to successful execution and delivery. You will mentor and guide less experienced engineers, fostering a collaborative, learning-focused environment, and prepare and maintain technical documentation to ensure traceability and compliance with industry standards. You will also stay current with emerging RF technologies and industry trends, applying that knowledge to drive innovation and enhance system performance across ongoing projects.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in RF Engineering or a related engineering discipline and 8+ years of relevant experience. Or, a Master's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience.
Experience serving as a Responsible Engineer (RE), driving hardware through its full lifecycle — development, qualification, integration & test, verification & validation, and certification
Experience developing RF space communications link budgets and coverage analysis
In-depth knowledge of relevant industry standards, such as CCSDS, DVB-S2X, MIL-STD-461G, and GSFC-STD-7000
Advanced knowledge of optical, electrical, and avionics systems architectures and their design
Ability to mentor and guide less experienced engineers
Ability to work with minimal supervision on projects involving both small and large engineering teams
Knowledge of requirements management, including functional requirements parsing, derivation, and allocation
Knowledge of systems integration, technical risk identification and management strategies, and verification and validation (V&V) principles
Experience performing trade studies to support communication subsystem architecture decisions
An active Secret U.S. Security Clearance with eligibility to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance
U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience serving as an Optical System Responsible Engineer (RE), driving hardware through its full lifecycle — development, qualification, integration & test, verification & validation, and certification
Experience with communications hardware component procurement, including S-band transponders and antennas commonly used in space applications
Experience developing RF space communications link budgets and coverage analysis
Experience handling COMSEC equipment and knowledge of COMSEC requirements
Extensive proficiency with RF design and simulation tools such as HFSS or CST, and significant experience with RF measurement equipment, including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators
Deep understanding of RF system performance parameters such as gain, noise figure, and linearity
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
Experience with advanced RF technologies and their applications in space-based systems
Proven track record of managing complex technical projects and delivering successful outcomes
An active Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance with SCI eligibility

Responsibilities

Designs, develops, and tests advanced RF systems and components for space-based applications, including antennas, transmitters, receivers, and optics.
Conducts performance testing and validation of optical systems (e.g., optical power amplifiers and splitters).
Uses advanced electrical design tools and methodologies to complete complex design tasks.
Collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure project success and seamless integration of RF systems.
Owns discrete technical packages and drives them to successful execution and delivery as a Responsible Engineer (RE).
Mentors and guides less experienced engineers, fostering a collaborative, learning-focused environment.
Prepares and maintains technical documentation to ensure traceability and compliance with industry standards.
Stays current with emerging RF technologies and industry trends, applying that knowledge to drive innovation and enhance system performance.