Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead
About The Position
Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead The Opportunity: Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission‑critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave, and software‑defined radio systems come together to enable resilient, high‑performance space missions. That expertise becomes essential as you architect and guide the development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads, integrate space‑qualified components across wide frequency ranges, and ensure reliable performance under the stringent constraints of the space environment. At Booz Allen, you’ll apply your RF engineering experience to shape RF mission payloads designed to dynamically adapt to support custom waveforms. Our team develops mission‑focused space technologies, from RF architecture and link analysis to payload integration, bus interfaces, and end‑to-end system modeling. That's why we need you, an experienced RF payload leader who can drive RF subsystem architecture, guide antenna and front‑end development, and collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to build a payload that meets demanding standards and mission assurance requirements for space vehicles. On our team, you’ll lead technical efforts from concept through flight‑ready implementation, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR‑based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing. Your work will directly impact the mission by enabling adaptable RF mission applications and reliable performance across evolving scenarios. You’ll also mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission’s technical roadmap. Take on this challenge in the rapidly evolving space sector as we advance resilient, scalable RF space payload capabilities that support mission critical objectives. Join us. The world can’t wait.
Requirements
- 8+ years of experience with RF or microwave circuit design, including amplifiers, mixers, oscillators, filters, and antennas and metrics such as SNR and NF
- Experience designing custom RF hardware or integrating COTS RF hardware through simulation, fabrication, testing, and optimization stages of product development for Space Payloads
- Experience with advanced RF or microwave design techniques such as electromagnetic (EM) simulation
- Experience with RF measurement and testing tools, including spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators
- Experience with design and RF simulation tools such as AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, or FEKO
- Knowledge of AS9100 standards, mission assurance practices, and space hardware workmanship guidelines
- Ability to troubleshoot and debug RF hardware
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines and work in a team environment
- Top Secret clearance
- Batchelor's degree in an Electrical Engineering field
Nice To Haves
- Experience with national security satellite systems for SIGINT or GEOINT
- Experience leading and managing small to medium-sized engineering teams
- Experience with MATLAB or Python and GitHub for signal processing applications and software and algorithm development
- Experience with descriptive MBSE tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture or similar
- Knowledge of lab automation and scripting to streamline testing processes and data acquisition
- Possession of excellent verbal and written communication skills
- TS/SCI clearance
Responsibilities
- drive RF subsystem architecture
- guide antenna and front‑end development
- collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to build a payload that meets demanding standards and mission assurance requirements for space vehicles
- lead technical efforts from concept through flight‑ready implementation, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR‑based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing
- mentor junior engineers
- strengthen engineering rigor efforts
- help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission’s technical roadmap
Benefits
- health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits
- paid leave
- professional development
- tuition assistance
- work-life programs
- dependent care
- recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
