RF Systems Engineer

Compensation: $160K-$180K + Annual Incentive Bonus

Schedule: Onsite 9x80

Acara Solutions is seeking a Senior RF Systems Engineer to join our client on a full-time direct hire opportunity available in Carlsbad CA

Our client is seeking an experienced RF Systems Engineer to support the design and development of advanced aerospace and defense systems. This role is responsible for translating customer requirements into system architectures, defining RF signal chains, supporting technical proposals, and guiding products through the full development lifecycle-from concept through production.

• Develop RF system and subsystem architectures for aerospace and defense applications.
• Translate customer requirements into system designs, specifications, and technical solutions.
• Define and analyze RF signal chains, including front-end, amplification, filtering, and frequency conversion.
• Own requirements management throughout the product lifecycle, from proposal through production.
• Create and maintain system documentation, including block diagrams, interface definitions, and verification artifacts.
• Support RFQs, RFPs, and proposal efforts by developing technical approaches and feasibility assessments.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, firmware, manufacturing, and program teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Participate in system verification, validation, and design reviews while ensuring requirements traceability.
• Interface directly with customers to communicate technical solutions and program status.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 8 years minimum experience developing RF systems within aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability electronics environments.

• Experience designing RF signal chains for Electronic Warfare (EW), radar, satellite, or other space-based RF systems.
• Strong background in systems engineering, requirements management, and system architecture.
• Experience supporting product development from concept through production.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.
• Experience working for suppliers supporting major aerospace and defense prime contractors.
• Knowledge of RF front-end design, high-power amplifiers, RF component integration, and microwave systems.
• Familiarity with MIL-STD requirements, environmental qualification, and space-qualified electronics.
• Experience supporting technical proposals, customer presentations, and design reviews.
• Strong systems-level thinking with the ability to lead complex technical efforts across multidisciplinary engineering teams.