RF Engineer

Company:

SAIC Location:

Crane, IN Career Level:

Mid-Senior Level Industries:

Technology, Software, IT, Electronics Description Description SAIC is seeking an Electrical/Electronics Engineer - RF Systems Design to support the development of advanced receiver (Rx) and transmitter (Tx) systems operating in the microwave frequency band of the electromagnetic spectrum. This role leverages expertise in RF engineering, system integration, electromagnetic simulation, and multidisciplinary design techniques to deliver innovative solutions for sea-based and aerospace applications. The selected candidate will play a critical role in designing and optimizing RF front-end systems, waveguide components, and integrated architectures for active and passive components. Additional responsibilities include ensuring signal integrity, managing high-speed digital processing, and maintaining tight constraints on power and space budgets within stringent operational conditions—including testing in harsh environments such as atmospheric reentry. This position offers the opportunity to directly contribute to the development and characterization of RF systems across a wide frequency range (1 GHz to 100+ GHz) in support of critical testing initiatives for sea-based and aerospace platforms. It requires onsite or collaborative work at

Naval Surface Warfare Center:

Crane Division , delivering innovative solutions in support of mission-critical RF applications.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Design and Development of Tx/Rx Systems in the

Microwave Band:

Lead the design and optimization of Tx/Rx systems, focusing on performance across microwave frequencies (1 GHz to 100 GHz and above). Develop waveguide components and systems to support signal propagation and integration into complex RF architectures. Conduct electromagnetic (EM) simulations to ensure design accuracy, signal integrity, and system compatibility. Balance multidisciplinary considerations, including thermal management, RF front-end efficiency, and high-speed digital processing, in all designs.

Advanced Integration of RF Components:

Design integrated architectures for active and passive components, ensuring seamless integration across broad frequency bands. Address system- and subsystem-level challenges in power management, space optimization, and scalability to operate in dynamic mission profiles. Apply advanced engineering practices to maintain system performance under harsh environmental conditions, such as during atmospheric reentry.

RF System Testing and Validation:

Develop and execute test plans for sea-based and aerospace RF systems, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental and performance guidelines. Characterize the performance of RF systems under a range of operating scenarios, including signal degradation factors and environmental stressors. Collaborate with stakeholders to support Verification and Validation (V&V) activities informed by RF performance testing and EM simulations.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Innovation:

Work closely with mechanical engineers, software engineers, and system architects to deliver integrated RF solutions that address operational constraints and mission requirements. Propose and implement cutting-edge innovations for waveguide design, RF front-end performance, and multidisciplinary system development. Lead trade studies to evaluate design alternatives for RF subsystems while balancing performance, cost, and operational readiness.

Qualifications Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, RF Engineering, or a related technical field. Five (5) or more years of relevant experience designing Tx/Rx systems within the microwave frequency spectrum. Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen Interim secret clearance required to start with the ability to obtain a Secret Clearance. SAIC will sponsor the clearance process if necessary. Demonstrated expertise in RF front-end design, electromagnetic simulation, and signal integrity optimization. Experience with RF/microwave system integration for sea-based or aerospace platforms. Proficiency with tools and technologies relevant to RF design, including EM simulation software (CST, HFSS, or similar), RF circuit design tools, and high-speed signal processing frameworks. Capable of developing multidisciplinary solutions that align RF performance with stringent power, space, and thermal management constraints. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proven track record of innovation in RF system development.

Preferred Experience:

Experience designing RF systems for sea-based platforms or aerospace applications, with exposure to testing in harsh environments like atmospheric reentry. Familiarity with waveguide design and high-frequency component development. Knowledge of emerging technologies within the microwave spectrum, including phased arrays, digital beamforming, and adaptive RF components. Certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), Professional Engineer (PE), or relevant defense and RF engineering certifications.