Design/Development Engineer

Now hiring: RF/Microwave Engineer owning high-power vacuum devices (TWTs, klystrons, magnetrons) from concept to production.

Location:

On-site in

Palo Alto, CA Department:

Engineering Employment Type:

Full-Time For over 70 years, Microwave Power Products (MPP) has been impacting critical industries like defense, aerospace, and medical technology. Our engineers drive process improvement, production efficiency, and lean implementation in environments where quality and performance are non-negotiable. MPP was acquired in June of 2024 by TransDigm Group (

NYSE:

TDG), a global producer of aerospace products.

ROLE SUMMARY

Our next addition to the Engineering team is an experienced, hands-on Engineer—someone with strong technical depth and a passion for mentoring and solving complex problems. This is a high-growth opportunity designed for an engineer ready to step into a senior role.

YOU WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR

(Responsibilities):

Design and Development :

Lead projects and hands-on design work for high-power RF and microwave vacuum electron devices (e.g klystrons, magnetrons, and helix/CCT TWTs, etc.), taking products from concept through build, test, and release to production. Use SolidWorks to design and revise mechanical components and assemblies. Gain working knowledge of and participate in high-vacuum processes, brazing, cathode assembly, and high-voltage RF test procedures.

Project Leadership :

Independently lead engineering projects from design through prototyping, testing, and transition to production. Engage with program management and production teams to ensure that technical goals are met on schedule and within budget. Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, program management, and quality teams.

Technical Ownership :

Serve as the technical lead on product or process initiatives. Troubleshooting performance issues, identifying root causes, and implementing engineering solutions with cross-functional stakeholders .

Mentorship & Guidance :

Mentor junior engineers and technicians by sharing best practices and reviewing feedback. Provide design reviews, hands-on coaching, and informal training.

Documentation & Process :

Develop engineering documentation including work instructions, test plans, and process flows that improve repeatability and product quality. Own engineering documentation, drawings, and bill of materials. Support and contribute to engineering change orders (ECOs) and design validation processes for hardware transitioning from R&D into production.

Continuous Improvement :

Lead or support initiatives focused on product cost reduction, yield improvement, and design-for-manufacturability. This position may involve access to information subject to U.S. export control laws (ITAR/EAR). Access to certain controlled information may be limited to individuals who qualify as "U.S. persons" (generally U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain protected individuals). Non-U.S. persons may still apply; however to be eligible for the role, access to controlled information may require U.S. government authorization. Applicants must be able to comply with applicable export control requirements. For security clearance position, the candidate must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Security Clearance as required, holding a security clearance is a plus.

YOU ARE THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THIS JOB IF YOU HAVE

(Preferred Qualifications): A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline (Master's degree with relevant technology, a plus) 2-8 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing or development engineering environment, ideally with exposure to RF/microwave vacuum devices Proficiency in SolidWorks (or equivalent solid modeling software), AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite Deep knowledge of RF/microwave concepts, vacuum science, and engineering analysis techniques Demonstrated ability to manage complex engineering programs independently and take initiative to resolve ambiguous technical problems Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders Ability to obtain a U.S. DoD Security Clearance.

WHAT WE OFFER

Salary $88,000 to $110,000 for Level 1; $90,000 to $110,000 for Level 2 Depending on experience and leveling Be part of a high-impact engineering team solving real-world technical challenges Grow into a Senior Engineer role with increasing leadership and ownership Work onsite in a collaborative lab and manufacturing environment where your work directly impacts production Contribute to the future of defense and aerospace technology Well-structured benefits package including: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage Generous 401(k) match Commuter benefits within the Stanford Research Park Complimentary EV charging Paid time off and holidays Training and opportunities for skill development and growth

OUR WORKPLACE COMMITMENT

We value the unique and diverse skills, qualities, and backgrounds that each employee brings to MPP, and we respect each employee as an integral member of our growing team. MPP is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all current and prospective employees, as well as to promoting a culture of inclusion and respect for everyone. We celebrate the innovation that diversity creates in the work environment, and we recognize that each employee brings their own unique capabilities, experiences, and perspectives to the organization. It is this variety that adds value to our teams, as well as to our stakeholders. We welcome and encourage applicants to reach their full potential with us. MPP is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability or other applicable legally protected characteristics.