Principal RF System Engineer

Leidos Holding$107K — $195K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • US citizenship and ability to obtain Secret Security Clearance
  • BS degree with 10 years or MS degree with 8 years of experience
  • Expertise in RF/MW circuit design and high-power PCB design
  • Proficient in RF testing equipment and analysis
  • Skilled in Matlab and RF simulation tools like Microwave Office and Ansys HFSS
  • Experience in hardware integration of HW & SW systems
  • Strong oral and written communication skills

Responsibilities

  • Conduct research and develop electrical equipment and systems
  • Design RF/Microwave circuit assemblies and modules
  • Perform RF cascaded analysis, link budget, and simulations
  • Create design schematics and layout for printed wiring boards using Altium
  • Generate test procedures and reports, including RF specifications
  • Manage requirements and traceability for antenna systems
  • Conduct phased array antenna measurements
  • Mentor junior engineers and lead technical efforts
  • Support proposal writing and RFI responses

Benefits

  • Collaborative work environment
  • Opportunity to lead and mentor junior engineers
  • Engagement in advanced technology development
  • Contribution to mission-critical projects for DOD and commercial clients
  • Exposure to various aspects of RF/Microwave technologies
Full Job Description
The Defense Systems group at Leidos currently has an opening for a Principal RF Antenna System Engineer to work in our St. Petersburg, FL office. The Leidos facility in St. Petersburg provides design, development, modeling and simulation, analysis, prototyping and testing of advanced electronic systems, with a focus on embedded communication systems, Software Defined Radios and Phased Array Antenna Systems to various DOD and commercial customers.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Perform research, design, and development of electrical equipment and systems.
  • Design various RF/Microwave circuit card assemblies and modules including power amplifiers, front end receivers, frequency conversions, filters, and switches from DC to milli-meter wave frequencies
  • Perform RF cascaded analysis, link budget, simulation, and hardware evaluation
  • Create design schematic using Altium design tool, BOM, and layout requirements for printed wiring board, layer stack-up, component placements, and RF routing
  • Generate test procedures/plans, test reports, RF requirements & specifications, and data analysis/presentation
  • Perform requirements management & traceability for various antenna systems
  • Perform phased array antenna measurements in near and far field ranges
  • Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior engineers
  • Contribute to future capture/pursuit opportunities, including white papers, RFI responses, or proposal of technical volumes


Basic Qualifications
  • Candidate must be a US citizen and able to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance
  • Requires BS degree and 10 years minimum of prior relevant experience or Masters with 8 years of prior relevant experience
  • Must be well-versed in the following: RF/MW circuit design, high frequency & high-power multilayer PCB-based design, receiver & frequency converter system design including frequency planning & spur analysis, knowledge of various RF components, and knowledge of basic antenna design
  • Experience in testing RF parameters and use of RF test equipment including network analysis, spectrum analysis, power meter, frequency source, digital scope, and others.
  • Proficient in using Matlab and RF simulation tools such as Microwave Office and Ansys HFSS.
  • Experience in HW integration and corresponding HW & SW integration.
  • Excellent communication skills- oral and written.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Active Security Clearance.
  • Experienced in phased array antennas and software defined radio (SDR) designs for communication systems.
  • Design experience and collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines, such as digital, mechanical, software/firmware, and manufacturing engineering.
  • Experience with the following:
    • Hardware design (RF, digital, and analog) to include printed wiring board (PWB) layout, schematic, and wide knowledge of PWB fabrication process and methodologies.
    • Design life cycles and various environmental requirements
    • Antenna measurement and in using nearfield antenna range
  • Troubleshooting RF subsystems


Original Posting:
September 9, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and 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.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

Join the Team

Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

Stay Connected

Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news from Leidos Holding. Subscribe to receive updates and be the first to know about new job opportunities, company developments, and more.

Prepare for Your Interview

To prepare for an interview at Leidos Holding, candidates should familiarize themselves with the company's missions and values, update their resumes, and be ready to discuss how their background and skills align with the position they are applying for.

Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

Explore Leidos Holding Jobs and Careers

Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

SEARCH LEIDOS HOLDING JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences from Leidos Holding. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await in your professional journey.
Learn more about Leidos Holding

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Leidos Holding

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Principal RF System Engineer jobs: