Radio Frequency Engineer - HP Microwave Systems | SSPA | Signal Integrity | CA

Job Description

Job Description

RF Spatial Engineer – RF Design & Microwave Systems

Location: CA
Industry: Defense & Space
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Mid-Senior (3+ Years)

We are seeking a highly skilled RF Spatial Engineer with strong hands-on expertise in RF design, microwave systems, and RF hardware validation . This role focuses on the end-to-end development of advanced RF and microwave subsystems used in mission-critical aerospace, defense, and satellite communication applications.

The ideal candidate will have deep experience in RF designing, testing, and validating high-performance systems , including SSPA (Solid State Power Amplifiers) and BUC (Block Upconverters) , along with strong proficiency in RF measurement and simulation tools.

You will contribute to the full product lifecycle—from concept and simulation through prototype testing, integration, production support, and continuous improvement.

• Design and develop advanced RF and microwave subsystems, including power amplifiers, converters, mixers, filters, synthesizers, and T/R modules.
• Develop and analyze quasi-optical and spatial power combining architectures for high-power RF systems.
• Perform RF, microwave, and electromagnetic simulations using:
  • ADS (Advanced Design System)
  • AWR Microwave Office
  • HFSS
  • CST Studio Suite
• Design, simulate, and optimize RF circuits for performance, efficiency, stability, and thermal behavior.
• Conduct RF system characterization including gain, power, linearity, noise figure, efficiency, and reliability testing.
• Operate RF test equipment including:
  • Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)
  • Spectrum Analyzers
  • Signal Generators
  • Power Meters
  • Oscilloscopes
• Develop detailed test plans, validation procedures, and technical documentation.
• Support prototype builds, integration testing, and production ramp-up activities (NPI support).
• Perform root cause analysis and troubleshooting of RF design, manufacturing, and performance issues.
• Collaborate with mechanical, thermal, manufacturing, and quality engineering teams to ensure design manufacturability and system reliability.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to RF technology roadmaps.
• Provide technical input for design reviews, failure analysis, and corrective actions.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Microwave Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 3+ years of direct experience in RF design, testing, and validation .
• Hands-on experience with RF and microwave circuit design and subsystem development.
• Strong experience working with RF measurement equipment (VNA, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power meters).
• Proven experience in RF hardware development and system-level integration.

• RF & Microwave Design Engineering
• RF Circuit Simulation & Modeling
• SSPA (Solid State Power Amplifier) Design & Testing
• BUC (Block Upconverter) Systems
• ADS, AWR, HFSS, CST
• RF Testing & Measurement
• Signal Processing & Microwave Systems
• VNA Calibration and Measurement Techniques
• Spectrum Analysis & Signal Characterization

• Experience in Electronic Warfare (EW) systems
• Radar system development experience
• Aerospace, defense, or satellite communications background
• Experience with high-power RF system design
• NPI (New Product Introduction) and production support experience

• Strong analytical and mathematical ability (calculus & spatial reasoning)
• High attention to detail and design accuracy
• Ability to work in fast-paced, mission-critical environments
• Strong ownership mindset and accountability
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

• On-site role in an advanced engineering and testing environment
• Exposure to RF labs, microwave test systems, and prototype hardware
• Collaboration with multi-disciplinary engineering teams
• Defense-grade quality and reliability standards

• Work on cutting-edge RF and microwave technologies for aerospace and defense applications
• Direct impact on mission-critical communication systems
• Hands-on work with advanced RF simulation and test equipment
• Strong technical growth opportunities in high-power RF engineering