About the JobWe are seeking an experienced RF Microwave Design Engineer with deep expertise in antenna systems and passive microwave hardware to support the development of next-generation spaceborne RF systems. In this role, you will lead the end-to-end design, analysis, and optimization of high-performance RF components-including antennas, antenna feed networks, orthomode transducers (OMTs), waveguide components, circulators, and other passive microwave devices-enabling precision RF front-end performance for mission-critical applications.
This position is based on-site in our Reston, VA office.Key Responsibilities- Design and analyze antennas and antenna feed systems including feed horns, waveguide feeds, and polarization networks.
- Design, optimize, and validate orthomode transducers with high isolation, low loss, and broadband performance.
- Develop waveguide components such as transitions, bends, twists, couplers, filters, power dividers, and circulators.
- Perform passive RF and antenna analysis including impedance matching, isolation, insertion loss, and polarization.
- Conduct full-wave EM simulations of passive and antenna structures using 3D EM tools.
- Perform tolerance, thermal, and mechanical sensitivity analyses for precision passive hardware.
- Support fabrication, inspection, and RF testing of passive components, circulators, and antenna assemblies.
- Measure and analyze S-parameters, isolation, return loss, insertion loss, and antenna radiation characteristics.
- Collaborate with mechanical, systems, and integration teams to ensure RF performance, robustness, and manufacturability.
- Generate detailed design documentation, drawings, and verification/test reports.
RequirementsRequired Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
- 5-8+ years of professional experience in RF/microwave engineering.
- Strong foundation in antenna theory, waveguide theory, ferrite and passive microwave device theory.
- Demonstrated experience designing and building antennas, OMTs, waveguide-based components, and circulators.
- Proficiency with 3D EM simulation tools (HFSS, CST, FEKO, or equivalent).
- Hands-on experience with RF and antenna measurement techniques.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance. Applicants must be U.S. citizens to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Desired Qualifications- Masters degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
- 12+ years of professional experience in RF/microwave engineering.
- Experience with multi-band, dual-polarized, or wideband antenna systems.
- Knowledge of horn, reflector, array, or feed network architectures.
- Familiarity with ferrite materials, magnetic biasing, and non-reciprocal device behavior.
- Experience with spaceborne, airborne, or ground-based antenna and RF front-end systems.
- Understanding of environmental qualification and high-reliability passive RF design.
Benefits- Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
- Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
- 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
- Stock Options
- Free Parking
- Free lunch daily in office
Compensation RangeThe Compensation Range for this role is $150,000 - $200,000 DOE.
