RF Electrical Engineer

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?The Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking experienced RF Electrical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in the development of advanced RF technologies for next-generation space missions. The Space Business Area is transforming space payload solutions for the future through both customer-funded programs and internal research and development (IR&D) efforts focused on enabling new capabilities in space-based sensing.What You'll Do:In this role, you will support the design, modeling, and experimental validation of electromagnetic technologies operating across the radio frequency spectrum. You will contribute to RF antenna modeling and performance analysis, assist with design trades and system-level evaluations based on laboratory measurements, and support the development of compact, high-performance payloads.You will also play a hands-on role in laboratory activities, including prototype antenna characterization, electronics integration, testing, and characterization of components and systems. Working closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, you will help evaluate and mature emerging RF technologies—such as RF metamaterials and electrically small antennas—analyze experimental data to inform design decisions, and document results to support internal R&D and program efforts.This position emphasizes a balance of analytical and experimental work. The ideal candidate is comfortable working across simulation and laboratory environments and is motivated to grow technical expertise in both domains.Basic QualificationsBachelors Degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 8+ years of prior relevant experience, or a Masters Degree with 6+ years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in the technical domain.US citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearanceExperience with RF antenna modeling, simulation, or analysisFamiliarity with RF aperture performance metrics such as Rx/Tx antenna gain, effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP), radiation efficiency, noise characteristicsExperience working in a laboratory environment, including anechoic chamber testing or characterizationStrong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detailEffective communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environmentPreferred QualificationsActive Secret clearance with ability to obtain a higher-level clearance (TS/SCI)Hands-on experience with building RF testbeds for characterizing RF technologiesExperience with antenna design tools such as COMSOL, CST Microwave Studio, or equivalentExposure to advanced RF technologies such as RF metamaterial antennas, space-time modulation, or electrically small antennasWhy Leidos?At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers’ success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.Leidos Defense provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world’s toughest security challenges for customers with “can’t fail” missions.If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.Original Posting:August 31, 2026For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.Pay Range:Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.SummaryLocation: San Diego, CAType: Full time