Energy Jobline ZR is hiring: RF systems design engineer in Philadelphia in Phila

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Job DescriptionJob Description

We are seeking a Staff or Principal level RF Systems Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and integration of advanced RF systems for defense and aerospace applications.
This role requires a hands-on engineer who thrives in a multidisciplinary environment — defining architectures, managing requirements, Microwave/RF design, performing simulations, and validating high-frequency subsystems ranging from microwave to millimeter wave.

The ideal candidate has deep experience in RF system design, simulation, and test, with exposure to active and passive components (phase shifters, filters, transmitters, receivers, mixers, amplifiers, couplers, and antennas).

Key Responsibilities

System Design & Architecture

• Define top-level system architectures integrating RF, antenna, power, mechanical, analog/digital, I/O, and software/firmware subsystems.
• Develop and manage system and sub-system requirements, including derivation and decomposition using tools such as DOORS or Jama.
• Generate block and flow diagrams, interconnection drawings (ICDs), and wire lists.
• Conduct trade studies, architecture analyses, and performance modeling to optimize system performance and cost.

Modeling, Simulation & Analysis

• Create and analyze RF/microwave system models to predict performance and ensure compliance with specifications.
• Use simulation tools such as AWR, ADS, HFSS, or CST for design and optimization.
• Evaluate antenna parameters including frequency range, gain, VSWR, polarization (RCP/LCP/linear), and environmental performance.
• Understand and apply S-parameters, noise figure, compression, and cascading effects to optimize RF chain sensitivity.

Integration & Test

• Lead and participate in integration, validation, and verification (IV&V) of subsystems and systems in lab and field environments.
• Use and interpret data from network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and oscilloscopes.

R&D and Technical Leadership

• Recommend and lead R&D efforts for next- RF technologies.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, firmware, and mechanical engineers to ensure successful project execution.
• Generate technical reports, briefings, and documentation for internal reviews and customer presentations.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, RF Systems, Physics, or related field (M.S. ).
• 8+ years of experience in RF/microwave system design and development (2–40 GHz range).
• Hands-on laboratory experience with RF test equipment (VNA, spectrum analyzer, signal generator, etc.).
• 2+ years of experience in requirements management and development using tools such as DOORS or Jama.
• Strong understanding of RF fundamentals — dB, dBm, EIRP, G/T, Noise Figure, P1dB, VSWR, S-parameters.
• U.S. Person status with ability to obtain a DoD Security Clearance.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in the defense, EW, radar, or aerospace industry.
• Experience designing or specifying requirements for EW, radar, or communication systems.
• Knowledge of antenna design, including polarization and circular microstrip creation.
• Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and tools like CATIA.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or scripting for RF data analysis and automation.
• Experience with schematic capture tools (e.g., Altium) and circuit design fundamentals.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance or higher .

If you are interested in applying for this job please press the Apply Button and follow the application process. Energy Jobline wishes you the very best of luck in your next career move.