RF Engineer

Description Would you like to be part of a team that is revolutionizing modern warfare and pushing boundaries in the art of the possible? Do you want to become an expert in RF systems to include Electronic Warfare and High Power Microwave systems as well as other applications? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team! The A4H Applied Technologies and Threat Engineering Group develops non-kinetic engagement strategies by combining a detailed understanding of threat systems (ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and similar systems) with non-kinetic technologies. Our group is seeking a highly motivated staff member to help us understand and develop non-kinetic systems and their impacts on adversary missiles and associated systems. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers and scientists who are subject matter experts in the area of RF defeat, and develop, test, and assess various advanced technologies for missile defense. As an RF Engineer you will… Perform system‑level RF analysis, including link budgets, propagation effects, and lethality assessments. Evaluate lethality and effectiveness of RF, EW, and HPM systems against air and missile threats through experimentation, simulation, and analysis. Propose, analyze, and test novel RF concepts at the system level, novel waveforms, new hardware designs, etc. Understand kill chain integration of RF, EW, and HPM systems, working with systems engineers, combat system experts, and sensor experts to evaluate performance such as end‑to‑end mission modeling, technical concept design, requirements definition, development phases, and technical reviews. As needed, perform software defined radio, analog, RF circuit, amplifier, and/or antenna design, simulation, development, and test. Duties could include component development, system development, and test design and implementation. Qualifications You meet the minimum qualifications for the position if you possess… B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Math, Physics, or related fields. At least 4 years of experience in one of the following technical thrust areas: high power microwave systems, electronic warfare systems, RF systems, or a related field. Experience with a programming language such as MATLAB, Python, C, C++, Java, or similar. Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI 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 requirements include U.S. citizenship. You go above and beyond the minimum qualifications if you possess… M.S. in science or engineering, or equivalent experience. Are skilled in and/or have knowledge of one or more of: RF propagation, system design, or testing Previous academic or professional experience developing, testing, or modeling EW or HPM weapon systems and their effectiveness. Experience with software defined radios, especially in EW applications. Experience designing and executing conducted and radiated RF experiments, including scripting instrument control, data collection and documentation. Prior warfighter experience. An active TS/SCI security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship. About Us Why Work at APL? 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 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. The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Minimum Rate $100,000 Annually Maximum Rate $245,000 Annually #J-18808-Ljbffr