Satellite RF Engineer

$98,100 - $171,398/Yr

General Atomics - Englewood, CO

Full-time - Mid Level

Englewood, CO

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Senior Satellite RF Engineer at General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) will lead the RF/Communication group in the development and execution of satellite systems. This role involves supporting mission and operational concept development, overseeing RF subsystem design and testing, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The engineer will work closely with customers and suppliers to define requirements and participate in all phases of programmatic reviews, contributing to the advancement of satellite technology for various applications.

Responsibilities

• Support mission, system and operational concept development for satellite missions.
• Function as the technical lead of the RF/Communication group, mentoring junior RF engineers.
• Develop and define RF subsystem requirements in collaboration with customers and suppliers.
• Support all phases of customer programmatic reviews including System Requirements Review and Critical Design Review.
• Oversee the design, development, analysis, production, and testing of satellite RF subsystems and EMI/EMC analysis.
• Participate in system level design of satellite systems across all project phases.
• Apply system engineering principles to the selection of RF subsystems for satellite design.
• Perform testing and fault diagnosis of equipment and subsystems, including documentation and test plans.
• Ensure an accurate and up-to-date document set for RF products.
• Prepare technical responses to bids and presentation materials for various applications.
• Support customer and supplier meetings and presentations at all project stages.
• Liaise with customer and supplier staff and other GA staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline; advanced degrees preferred.
• Six or more years of experience with a bachelor's degree, four or more years with a master's degree, or two or more years with a PhD.
• Knowledge of writing RF/Communication Control Plans, Test Procedures, Test Plans, and Test Reports.
• A TS/SCI clearance is required.
• Experience handling and testing satellite flight hardware, with troubleshooting skills for electronic systems.
• Understanding of small satellite design and practices.
• Familiarity with FCC regulations for satellite systems.
• Knowledge of S-band, X-band, and Ka-band systems and designs; other bands desirable.
• Knowledge of EMC/EMI analysis and design considerations.
• Familiarity with the satellite system life cycle, including environmental testing and operations.
• Understanding of clean room compliance and safe working practices.
• Strong communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with satellite system life cycle management.
• Familiarity with advanced RF subsystem technologies.

Benefits

• Competitive salary ranging from $98,100 to $171,398.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Flexible working hours and potential for extended hours as required.