Senior Staff RF Test Engineer

The Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Staff RF Test Engineer for the Spacecraft Test team to lead RF testing of both current production hardware as well as newly developed spacecraft RF hardware. This candidate should possess a strong combination of hardware and software knowledge with a primary focus on RF test methodologies and automation.

The Spacecraft Test team collaborates across component production, testing, and launch vehicle integration to deliver safe, functional spacecraft while balancing technical and schedule challenges.

Responsibilities

• Development and management of high-value component/subsystem testing campaigns
• Recommend and implement improvements to testing processes and methodologies
• Assist system team in development of practical and measurable product requirements
• Monitor and maintain test equipment and ensure facility capabilities
• Mentor a team of test engineers and technicians
• Analyze test results and provide detailed reports
• Work with design team to incorporate changes to meet requirements
• Integration and test of RF components and subassemblies
• Verification and troubleshooting of RF subsystems throughout spacecraft integration
• Develop test plans and design GSE for risk mitigation and validation
• Develop and improve test scripts within an existing automation framework
• Analyze test data to improve quality and efficiency
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve issues
• Conduct environmental testing
• Participate in design reviews with focus on testability
• Adhere to safety and quality standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree + 12 years related experience, or master's degree + 8 years related experience
• Extensive hands-on experience with RF circuits and/or systems
• Expert knowledge of network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators
• Proficiency in Python and MATLAB for data analysis and signal processing
• Proficiency in Python or LabVIEW for test automation scripting
• Strong understanding of RF system architectures, figures of merit, and impairments
• Strong knowledge of RF principles, modulation, signal propagation, and antenna theory
• Hands-on experience with RF PCB-based circuits
• Experience handling spacecraft flight hardware safely
• Familiarity with spacecraft architecture and cross-functional stakeholders
• Experience leading and mentoring engineers
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in dynamic environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations
• Experience in contamination- and ESD-sensitive environments
• Experience testing high-power RF electronics

Required Qualification

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, lawfully admitted refugee or asylee, or eligible to obtain required authorizations.

Compensation

The approximate base salary range for this position is $192,979 - $239,000. Total compensation includes base salary, bonus, equity, and benefits such as medical, dental, and vision coverage, matching 401K, unlimited PTO, paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend.