RF Engineer

RF Engineer

Location:

Boulder, Colorado (Onsite)

Employment Type:

Contract

Role Overview

We are seeking a Level 3 RF Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced RF systems within ground-based and space-related programs. This role focuses on developing and sustaining RF hardware solutions that enable mission-critical communications and sensor capabilities. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience with RF equipment and signal flow, combined with a strong understanding of RF performance metrics and measurement techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and support RF systems and subsystems, including front-end and back-end signal chains.
• Analyze and troubleshoot RF signal flow across complex systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Work with RF components such as up converters/down converters, modems, wave guides, Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs), high-power amplifiers (HPAs), and RF antenna subsystems.
• Support system integration activities involving RF ground systems and communications infrastructure.
• Perform RF testing, validation, and performance characterization using industry-standard tools and methodologies.
• Evaluate system performance using key RF metrics such as Gain-to-noise temperature ratio (G/T), power levels (dBm), and antenna measurements.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure end-to-end RF performance.
• Participate in system design reviews, requirements development, and verification activities.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience:

3–7 years of experience working with RF systems or equipment. This includes hands-on experience with RF signal chain design, integration, or troubleshooting.

Technical

Skills:

Experience with RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers). Familiarity with Ku-band and S-band RF systems. Understanding of RF propagation, link budgets, and system-level performance. Strong knowledge of RF signal flow and system architecture. Ability to interpret and analyze RF measurements (G/T, dBm, antenna patterns).

Security Clearance:
Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense Secret clearance as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting space, satellite, or ground station RF systems.
• Familiarity with antenna design, waveguide systems, and high-frequency RF transmission.
• Experience with modeling or simulation tools for RF systems.