RF & Communication Mission System Engineer

Overview Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit Job Description Summary You will begin by getting familiar with the VIPER rover onboard communication system and understand all the parameters for establishing and maintaining reliable communications through the mission. Communication to/from the rover is Direct-to-Earth utilizing a low gain omnidirectional antenna or a high gain phased array antenna through the Deep Space Network (DSN). There is a major RF Compatibility Test that will be performed with the DSN at Johnson Space Center (JSC) using the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) provided RF Compatibility Test Trailer, connecting the vehicle to the NASA-Ames Mission Operations Center. There is also crypto key loading that will need to occur. For lunar surface communication, one of your goals will be to determine the impact of low-angle multipath propagation, and the necessary means to mitigate. Your role will be part of the test team and evolve to the Operations team. This requires developing test procedures and operating testbed and vehicle testing consoles, developing operations procedures and products for the operations console, troubleshooting and anomaly investigations. You will be located at JSC to be with the test and operations team supporting testbed and vehicle functional testing, and will periodically travel to Florida to support post-delivery vehicle checkout and possibly integrated Lander/VIPER checkouts. The role is ideal for a communication systems engineer who has strong motivation to understand the end-to-end system, maturity and good judgment to advise Draper and NASA Programs and Engineering leadership toward a successful mission, and to expand the capability for future missions. Duties/Responsibilities Design RF and communications systems that solve challenging problems. Manage complex engineering projects in a fast-paced environment. Develop and maintain effective internal and external relationships. Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction—contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt to changes in requirements. Perform analysis and modeling of complex radio frequency or communications systems. Contribute to customer presentations. Provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines. Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies. Mentor less experienced teammates and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback. Lead a cross‑functional team. Engage in business development and proposal activities. Perform other related duties as assigned. Skills/Abilities Knowledge of RF systems and architectures. Knowledge of fundamentals of electrical engineering. Skills with RF and Communications software tools. Hands‑on experience with instrumentation for RF measurement. Strong problem‑solving skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills and willingness to work in a highly collaborative team environment. Excellent management and organizational skills: proven ability to meet deadlines, prioritize tasks, and attend to details. Education Requires bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field. Advanced degree preferred. Experience Requires 5–10 years experience in Radio Frequency or Communications Engineering or related field. Additional Job Description Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. Job Location - City Houston Job Location - State Texas Job Location - Postal Code 77058-2900 Salary The U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $82,300.00 - $220,000.00. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all U.S. locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Benefits Draper supports many programs to improve work‑life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off‑site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. EEO Statement Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high‑performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Draper