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Astro Digital

RF Engineer - Satellite Systems

Astro Digital, San Jose, California, United States, 95199

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Overview

We are seeking an experienced

RF Engineer

(5–10years) to design and analyze RF subsystems for next-generation satellite platforms. In this role, you’ll be responsible for

end-to-end RF chain design

— including

receive paths, transmit chains, front-end modules, and antenna integration

and system performance optimization. This is a hands-on role where you’ll take designs from concept through analysis, simulation, prototyping, and test, working closely with mechanical, systems, and mission teams to deliver reliable flight hardware. What You’ll Do

Design and develop

RF receive and transmit chains , including LNAs, filters, mixers, PAs, and frequency conversion stages. Perform

cascade analysis

for noise figure, gain, linearity, and dynamic range across RF chains. Contribute to

link budgets

and verify compliance with system requirements. Support

antenna design, selection, and integration , ensuring proper impedance matching and radiation performance. Perform

RF board schematic and layout

in

Altium Designer , including grounding, shielding, and impedance control best practices. Select and qualify RF components suitable for

space and high-reliability environments . Perform lab testing and characterization using VNAs, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and other RF equipment. Support system-level integration and troubleshoot RF issues during bring-up and test and on-orbit analysis and debugging. Document designs, analyses, and test results for internal teams and external stakeholders. What We’re Looking For

B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field. 5 years minimum of experience in

RF design, layout, and test . Strong background in

RF receive/transmit chain design

and

cascade analysis . Hands-on experience with

Altium Designer

(or equivalent PCB CAD tool) for RF layout. Deep understanding of RF performance trade-offs: noise figure, gain, IP3, linearity, sensitivity, and power efficiency. Proficiency with RF design and simulation tools (Matlab RF and Antenna Toolbox and HFSS). Hands-on experience with lab equipment such as VNAs, spectrum analyzers, and power meters. Excellent problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration skills. Bonus

Experience with

spacecraft RF systems , ground station hardware, or aerospace communications. Knowledge of antenna arrays, beamforming, or phased-array systems. Familiarity with modulation schemes, digital signal processing, or SDR integration. Understanding of

radiation effects and environmental testing

for high-reliability RF hardware. Experience with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Software Defined Radio (SDR). Proficiency in one or more programming languages, especially C/C++ and Python. Why Join Us?

Ownership of RF designs that enable cutting-edge satellite communications. Work on both

receive and transmit systems , from concept to flight hardware. Join a collaborative team where your RF expertise directly impacts mission success.

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