Senior RF Engineer

Sierra Space Careers:
At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

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.

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission. We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below.

The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

• 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…