Hardware Engineer, Level 1 Security Clearance

Job Title & Location

Hardware Engineer, Level 1 – Annapolis Junction, MD
Full Time – Hardware Engineering (Mid Level)

• Design, install, and test RF and SATCOM hardware systems across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band).
• Account for environmental and signal propagation factors including atmospheric attenuation, ionospheric effects, rain fade, and polarization mismatch.
• Conduct site surveys and support installation activities including antenna alignment, hardware rack and stack, and system integration.
• Operate and maintain earth‑terminal control systems to establish and sustain communication links.
• Perform preventive, scheduled, and corrective maintenance on RF systems and components.
• Troubleshoot and resolve RF hardware issues in real‑time, including degraded signal performance and system faults.
• Apply anti‑jamming techniques and enforce operational and safety procedures.
• Utilize RF test equipment such as Keysight PNA‑X, Field Fox, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers.
• Perform RF measurements including S‑parameters, P1dB, TOI, noise figure, phase noise, and group delay.
• Conduct non‑linear analysis including intermodulation distortion (IMD) and spectral regrowth.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation including schematics, diagrams, engineering plans, and test reports.
• Create AutoCAD and Visio drawings and support as‑built documentation and system design packages.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional teams including system engineers, program managers, and test personnel.
• Support installations, testing, and maintenance activities in remote or field environments (up to 15% travel).
• Lead or support inspection and maintenance teams, and provide guidance to site personnel as needed.

• Strong experience in RF system design, installation, and testing, with a focus on SATCOM systems.
• Experience working with RF hardware across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band).
• Hands‑on experience with RF test equipment including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers.
• Knowledge of RF signal propagation, interference, and environmental impacts on system performance.
• Experience troubleshooting complex RF systems and implementing corrective actions.
• Ability to perform hardware installation, antenna alignment, and system integration activities.
• Experience developing maintenance procedures and conducting system inspections.
• Strong understanding of RF measurement techniques and performance analysis.
• Ability to produce technical documentation, engineering plans, and reports.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to work independently in dynamic and field‑based environments.
• Physical ability to climb antennas, lift equipment, and perform hands‑on installation work.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university.
• Relevant experience supporting RF systems design, installation, and maintenance may be substituted for a degree.
• Experience supporting SATCOM systems and field deployments is highly preferred.

Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role.

• Competitive salary.
• Company‑sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Company‑paid long‑term disability, short‑term disability, and life insurance.
• Employee assistance program.
• 401(k) profit‑sharing plan with company matching.
• Generous paid time off and holiday package.
• Paid training and professional development opportunities.
• Work‑life balance support.

• Support critical national security missions that matter.
• Close‑knit, employee‑first culture where your voice is heard.
• Ongoing training, mentorship, and career development.
• Competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work‑life balance.

Independent Software is an Equal Opportunity Employer EOE, M/F/D/V. We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.