Responsible for the design, evaluation, and optimization of RF systems, supporting mission-driven applications in complex electromagnetic environments. Owns RF system design and end-to-end performance, leading RF efforts on cross-functional teams during design, development, test and deployment of DS Systems. This role integrates RF modeling, synthetic and hardware-in-the-loop data generation, hardware validation, and experimental analysis to inform system architecture designs under real-world constraints. Requires a strong foundation in RF systems, electromagnetic wave propagation, and RF communication modulation schemes as well as demonstrated collaboration and communication skills within multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

RF Hardware
• Drive technical direction and execution of RF efforts, independently identifying priorities, risks, and trade-offs in ambiguous environments
• Own end-to-end RF system performance across prototype platforms-from early concept through testing, validation, and iteration
• Lead the development of EMI/EMC mitigation and RF hardening strategies, ensuring robust performance in complex electromagnetic environments
• Design and optimize RF systems under real-world constraints, including hardware limitations, interference, and congested spectrum conditions
• Design and execute experiments to characterize performance, validate models, and uncover failure modes

RF Simulation
• Build and maintain RF simulation frameworks (antenna models, propagation models, channel simulations) to evaluate system design decisions
• Translate experimental and simulation results into clear, actionable insights that influence system architecture and operational decisions
• Collaborate deeply across disciplines-including Machine Learning, hardware, and mission teams-to align system design with algorithm development and operational needs
• Enable and support cross-functional teams by generating high-quality RF datasets and providing domain expertise for modeling, ML validation, and system integration

Deployment Planning
• Shape operational concepts in partnership with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure advertised performance is achievable in real-world deployments

What We Are Looking For
• Demonstrated experience owning technical projects or system components end-to-end
• Experience with RF simulation tools (HFSS, CST, MATLAB, GNU Radio, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with general electronics laboratory test equipment (spectrum analyzers, signal generators, vector network analyzers, oscilloscopes, etc.)
• Relevant experience designing and assembling RF signal chains for laboratory testing, including the use of filters, mixers, splitters, couplers, amplifiers, etc.
• Familiarity with software-defined radio platforms and real-world RF hardware applications
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex RF concepts to non-specialists

BS or higher or equivalent experience Electrical Engineering or Physics or similar

Nice to Have

• Experience working with Electronic Warfare Systems
• Familiarity with python and/or linux shell scripting
• Prior experience in a defense or government context
• Willingness to travel outside the lab for field experimentation and exercise support.

Who Thrives at Distributed Spectrum

• Fast learners over specific backgrounds - We care more about how quickly you can pick up new skills than where you've worked before.
• Intellectual honesty - The right answer matters more than being right. You challenge assumptions, test ideas, and pivot when needed.
• Adaptability - We're organized, but sometimes things change quickly. You find a way to make it work and balance short-term deliverables with long-term goals.
• Ownership of outcomes - You optimize your own time, focus on what matters to deliver quickly, and cut out inefficiencies.
• Not building in a vacuum - You stay connected to the rest of our teams and our customers to make sure all the pieces fit together.

What We Offer

• Above-market salary, equity, and benefits package.
• Early Series A Equity
• Excellent health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) match - up to 4% of your salary
• Flexible PTO
• Daily office lunches in NYC