RF Systems and Satellite Communications Engineer

Description Are you experienced with RF systems design, analysis, and development for space and ground segments? Are you a clear thinker with good interpersonal skills, and effective communication skills? If so, we’re looking for someone like you to join our team at APL! We are seeking an RF systems engineer to design, analyze and develop NASA and DoD’s next‑generation spacecraft. You’ll be joining a hard‑working team of engineers who thrive on making critical contributions to our nation’s critical challenges. Our culture embraces our core values of unquestionable integrity, trusted service to our nation, world‑class expertise, game‑changing impact, highly collaborative, and even fun environment! Responsibilities You will perform conceptual systems design, simulation, link analysis, hardware trade studies, technical tradeoffs, and costing for satellite communications and RF system design concepts for both space and ground segments. You will work with mission and spacecraft systems engineers, peer subsystem engineers, and project management in overall mission development and execution from concept to launch, including technical concept design, requirements, development phases, technical reviews, budget development, and schedule. You will lead technical teams throughout the RF systems development cycle, including system concept, trade studies, prototype work, flight development, integration, and test. You will assist project and program management in sponsor engagement. Qualifications A BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent. 5+ years direct experience in satellite RF communications and RF systems design, development, simulation (MATLAB, SystemVue, or equivalent) and operations. Experience in RF hardware design and/or testing. Are willing and able to accommodate flexible hours for spacecraft‑level testing activities for short periods of time, infrequent travel to customer or sponsor locations, as well as spacecraft integration and test sites. Can obtain a Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility includes U.S. citizenship. Preferred Qualifications PhD degree in Electrical Engineering with previous RF systems design leadership experience. Experience with software‑defined radios (SDR), antennas, RF characterization and measurements to Ka‑band or beyond, radar systems design, military satellite communications systems. Ability to work independently without technical oversight. Other key skills: Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) design, RF/microwave circuit design, Digital Signal Processing (DSP), SIGINT, precision timing, and time transfer, radar design. About Us The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at EEO Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. Compensation Minimum Rate: $105,000 Annually Maximum Rate: $290,000 Annually #J-18808-Ljbffr Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory