Northrop Grumman

Principal RF Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman$114K — $171K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field with 5+ years RF design experience, or a Master’s with 3+ years, or Ph.D. with 0-2 years
  • Hands-on experience in RF board/module design from concept through test
  • Strong proficiency with RF design and simulation tools like ADS
  • Experience with EM simulation tools (HFSS or similar), including understanding S-parameters
  • Solid understanding of RF fundamentals such as impedance matching, noise, and filtering
  • Experience developing link budgets and RF system analyses
  • Effective communication in cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

  • Design, simulate, and debug RF circuits at board/module level
  • Develop and analyze RF chain architectures regarding performance parameters
  • Perform link budget analysis to validate system performance
  • Use EM simulation tools to model RF structures and interconnects
  • Utilize ADS for circuit simulation and system-level modeling
  • Generate and review schematic designs and drive PCB layout
  • Support integration and testing with test plans and data analysis

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan options
  • Company-paid holidays
  • Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: None TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time **Please be aware that this position is contingent upon capturing program award(s) and obtaining and maintaining associated business and/or customer funding** Summary We are seeking a T03 Level RF Design Engineer to support the design, analysis, and verification of RF boards and modules for high‑performance space systems. The successful candidate will be hands‑on in circuit and layout development, proficient in EM simulation (HFSS or equivalent), and capable of performing RF system analysis and link budgets. Responsibilities - Design, simulate, and debug RF circuits and subsystems at the board and module level (e.g., LNAs, PAs, mixers, filters, synthesizers, couplers). - Develop and analyze RF chain architectures, including gain, noise figure, linearity, and dynamic range allocations. - Perform link budget analysis for RF and microwave systems to validate end‑to‑end performance and support requirements flow‑down. - Use EM simulation tools (e.g., HFSS or equivalent) to model RF structures, interconnects, and components, and translate results into robust designs. - Use ADS (or similar RF design suites) for circuit simulation, optimization, and system‑level modeling. - Generate and review schematics, drive PCB and module layout, and collaborate with layout and mechanical engineering to meet RF performance and manufacturability goals. - Support integration and test: develop test plans, analyze measurement data, and troubleshoot performance issues in the lab. - Participate in design reviews and contribute to technical documentation, design reports, and configuration‑controlled artifacts. Basic Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (or related field) with 5+ years of RF design experience; or Master’s degree with 3+ years of RF design experience; or PhD with 0–2 years of RF design experience. - Hands‑on experience in RF board and/or module design from concept through test. - Strong proficiency with RF circuit design and simulation tools, including ADS (or equivalent). - Experience with EM simulation tools such as HFSS (or similar), including meshing, model setup, and interpretation of S‑parameters and fields. - Solid understanding of RF fundamentals (e.g., impedance matching, S‑parameters, noise, linearity, stability, filtering). - Experience developing link budgets and RF system‑level analyses. - Ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams and communicate technical information clearly in written and verbal form. Preferred Qualifications - Experience designing RF boards/modules for radar, communications, EW, or similar applications. - Familiarity with lab test equipment (VNAs, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes) and RF measurement best practices. - Experience with high‑frequency PCB design practices (stack‑ups, controlled impedance, grounding, shielding, and thermal considerations). - Experience working in a hardware development environment with configuration management and formal design reviews. - Active security clearance  **Please be aware that this position is contingent upon capturing program award(s) and obtaining and maintaining associated business and/or customer funding** Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman is a security company that provides systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding, and technical services to government and commercial customers. They design, develop, and build everything from aircraft and spacecraft to cyber security systems. The company is involved in a wide range of defense and technology projects, including the development of aircraft, space systems, cybersecurity solutions, and advanced electronics.

Northrop Grumman Careers

Join the elite team at Northrop Grumman, a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products, and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernization to customers worldwide. There has never been a more exciting time to advance your career with Northrop Grumman.

Work You’ll Do

At Northrop Grumman, your work will redefine the edges of technology and create a safer future. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work. Our team is at the forefront of innovation, collaborating to make the impossible, possible.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Whether you’re looking for an internship, an entry-level position, or a spot for seasoned professionals, Northrop Grumman offers a variety of career paths that encourage growth and development. Explore job opportunities that elevate your skills, and push your career to the next level.

Join Our Diverse and Inclusive Team

Diversity and inclusion are the foundations of our culture. Northrop Grumman is committed to building a diverse team that fosters an inclusive environment, where every team member is valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. We believe that diversity fuels innovation.

Professional Development and Benefits

Northrop Grumman is dedicated to your professional and personal growth. We offer unparalleled benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous time off, and family care resources. Additionally, we provide extensive leadership and diversity training to help you craft your career path.

Networking and Leadership

Enhance your career through our robust networking opportunities. Connect with leaders and peers within Northrop Grumman through various events, mentorship programs, and professional groups. Our leadership is deeply invested in nurturing talent and guiding team members through their career journey.

Innovation in Technology

Drive technological breakthroughs with a company at the cutting edge of innovation. Northrop Grumman is a place where you can work on projects that push the boundaries of what is possible.

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Check out the open positions on our Careers page. Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Prepare for your interview with us by researching our projects and understanding our company’s mission and values.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest news, job openings, and insider tips by subscribing to our careers blog. Personalize your experience by joining our community and setting up job alert emails tailored to your career preferences.

Northrop Grumman Jobs

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Northrop Grumman. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Search Northrop Grumman jobs today and find where your expertise is needed most. Join Northrop Grumman, and be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference, not only within the company but in the world at large. Your journey to building a rewarding career starts here.
Learn more about Northrop Grumman
Size
88,000 employees
Market Cap
$82.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1939
5 Year Trend
+7.6%
Revenue
$36.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Northrop Grumman

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Principal RF Design Engineer jobs: