Microwave Test Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space—delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators.

Join us and take your place in space.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results.

We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

We are looking for a Microwave Test Engineer who thrives on curiosity, goes beyond following procedures, asks questions, and seeks root causes. In this role, you’ll design and implement innovative and unique RF/microwave test benches using state‑of‑the‑art modeling, prototyping, and measurement capabilities, while collaborating with microwave and millimeter‑wave subject matter experts. You’ll work in a dynamic and challenging academic‑like environment that values intellectual curiosity, a growth mindset, and practical impact, where you can make a tangible difference in the development and operation of our nation’s most critical space systems.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on‑site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

• Develop test benches with microwave instrumentation such as network analyzers and/or high‑speed oscilloscopes
• Independently analyze test data
• Perform engineering design, analysis, and modeling
• Collaborate onsite with fellow engineers and technicians
• Mentor technical and technician staff

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or other related discipline
• Minimum of 1 year of hands‑on experience testing microwave instrumentation such as network and spectrum analyzers, high‑speed oscilloscopes, and signal sources
• Proficiency in instrument automation using Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW or similar languages
• Creativity in problem‑solving, handling ambiguity and imperfectly defined problems, rapid grasp of new concepts, and excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Willing to travel domestically approximately 10%
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance at a Top‑Secret/SSBI level

• Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or other related discipline with 3 years of experience OR Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or other related discipline with 5 years of experience and all of the above requirements
• Track record writing test procedures
• Experience generating test reports

• Experience with high‑power microwave amplifiers or systems
• Ability to perform microwave circuit simulations using ADS or AWR Microwave Office
• Capability to perform EM simulations using Sonnet, AXIEM, or HFSS
• Technical Team Leadership
• Currently hold an active DOD – Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI access

Compensation
Salary range: $95,200.00 – $ per year

• Operate strategically
• Lead change
• Engage with impact
• Foster innovation
• Deliver results

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan—Employees receive a…