Systems Engineer - Physics

ThinKom Solutions•Hawthorne, CA

1d•$80,000 - $135,000

About The Position

The Systems Engineer drives system-level architecture assessments, decomposes mission-level requirements into quantitative physical allocations, defines subsystem interfaces, and guides technology selection for counter-UAS solutions. As part of an Integrated Product Team (IPT), under the guidance of the Director of Systems Engineering and the Program Manager, this role leads system design, development, testing, and implementation throughout the High-Power Microwave (HPM) system development lifecycle. The engineer develops integrated solutions that meet performance, usability, reliability, and security needs; analyzes products for customer use cases; evaluates COTS components; and maintains technical documentation. The position involves collaboration with customers, suppliers, subcontractors, and internal teams, as well as work in office and laboratory/testing environments. The environment may occasionally involve loud noises, hazardous materials, and chemicals. The role may include occasional irregular or extended work hours, extended periods of sitting, and travel up to 10% of the time. Occasional lifting or moving of objects, files, or boxes weighing up to 50 pounds is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
At least 2 years of professional systems engineering experience focused on complex hardware development in satellite communications (Satcom), high-power or solid-state RF systems, pulsed power, or experimental physics.
Demonstrated experience across the full product lifecycle, including requirements decomposition, writing ICDs, and leading multi-subsystem V&V campaigns.
Proficiency with Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and RF measurement equipment.
Experience with simulation and analytical tools such as Python, MATLAB, COMSOL Multiphysics, CST Microwave Studio, or Ansys HFSS.
Active US DoD SECRET clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain one.
Proficiency with MS Office products.
Strong verbal and written communication, problem-solving, and presentation skills for working with internal teams, customers, and suppliers.
Ability to travel up to 10% of the time.
Ability to occasionally lift and/or move objects, files, or boxes up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with Directed Energy (DE), High-Power Microwave (HPM), Electronic Warfare (EW), or high-power radar systems.
Background in pulsed-power electronics, Pulse Forming Networks (PFNs), high-voltage trigger systems, or breakdown mitigation, including pressurized dielectrics, SF6 handling, or multipactor breakdown prevention.
Experience with DoD contracts and understanding of defense acquisition processes.
Experience writing and executing production-level RF test procedures and Acceptance Test Procedures (ATPs).
Familiarity with military-standard environmental and electromagnetic testing, such as MIL-STD-461 for EMI/EMC and MIL-STD-810 for shock and vibration.

Responsibilities

Lead system design, integration, and verification and validation (V&V) test phases across the product lifecycle to support on-time project completion.
Decompose mission-level requirements; establish subsystem and test requirements; perform requirements flow-down and traceability; and author physical and electrical Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
Lead requirements IPTs and working group meetings with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.
Prepare and present design summaries during internal and external design reviews.
Identify, analyze, and conduct hands-on evaluations of system components and commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) products for compatibility and performance.
Evaluate verification test results and analyze engineered products against customer use cases.
Establish operational concepts (CONOPS).
Ensure compliance with DoD contract requirements and follow company design procedures and records-retention practices.
Maintain technical documentation.