Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer (Subject Matter Expert III) - Hybrid

Akima Systems Engineering is looking to hire a senior technical authority and

• RF Engineer - Subject Matter Expert (SME)
• with deep expertise in maritime RF and communications systems.

This person will lead research and technology insertion efforts for next-generation maritime detect and surveillance systems. This role will drive innovation in broad-spectrum RF signal detection, sensor integration, and advanced communication technologies to support the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) mission. To join our team of outstanding professionals, apply today! This position is hybrid, requiring selected candidate to reside in the National Capital Region (NCR).

• This position requires travel as needed (up to 50% if needed within US).
• This Hybrid position requires that you live within commuting distance from Alexandria VA.
• Responsibilities
• + This role serves as the senior technical expert for RF and communications systems, including software-defined radios, in a maritime environment.

You'll work closely with a team to solve system-integration challenges and develop solutions that support maritime surveillance operations. + Lead the investigation, integration, design and development of RF communications engineering initiatives integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) anomaly detection at the tactical edge. + Develop and integrate software defined radios for mesh networks and mobile ad-hoc networks (MANET) to enable resilient communications in maritime environments. + Serve as the expert on maritime sensor technologies and standards. Lead research on emerging RF sensors for wide‑band signal detection (HF through microwave and beyond) and ensure thorough hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing and RF performance validation. + Conduct and produce technical assessments and reports, feasibility studies, recommendations and performance evaluations of RF new technologies for insertion into USCG programs. Propose solutions to maritime surveillance requirements gaps. + Collaborate with engineering, research, and program management teams to guide system architecture and technology roadmaps. + Recommend policies, doctrine, tactics, and procedures given past expert opinion or using analysis of actual outcomes. + Conduct periodic meetings with Coast Guard for collaborative development sessions, program reviews, and design reviews. + Act as an alternate to the Systems Engineer for support to this program. + Support development of all technical documentation required by

C5ISC SELC

processes. Provide input as requested by the USCG in the development of Engineering Change documentation. + Provide and review formal reports and documentation including any deficiencies identified as directed by the COR.

• Qualifications
• + Secret clearance is required.

+ Must be a US Citizen. + At least 8 years of C4I System Engineering or RF engineering experience. + Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering or related field. + Four years' experience with Coast Guard RF sensor technologies or engineering. (Alternatively, a candidate with ten or more years of experience in maritime RF sensor support may fulfill the minimum qualification requirements in lieu of the degree). + Proven track record as a technical authority or senior engineer in RF system design and integration and team environments. Familiarity with standards and protocols for RF communications and spectrum management. + Experience with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Coast Guard maritime RF technologies or other military RF technologies. Experience with maritime surveillance systems, SIGINT, or electronic warfare. + Experience with broad-spectrum RF signal detection, including HF, VHF, UHF, microwave, and emerging frequency bands. Expertise in signal processing, spectrum analysis, and interference mitigation. Proficiency in RF modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, CST, HFSS). + Knowledge of AI/ML techniques for RF signal classification and anomaly detection. Understand current emerging RF technologies, spectrum-monitoring tools, AI/ML advancements, and relevant industry standards. + Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for complex RF challenges. + Must be able to travel as needed (up to 50%) + Excellent communication skills for stakeholder engagement and technical reporting. + Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams.

• Job ID
• 2026-22174
• Work Type
• Hybrid
• Company Description
• Work Where it Matters
• Akima Systems Engineering (ASE), an Akima company, is not just another federal systems support contractor.

As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska. At ASE, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.

• For our shareholders
• , ASE provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
• For our government customers
• , ASE delivers solutions in maritime IT, systems engineering, and integration across the Department of Defense and stands ready to help improve operational performance at a reasonable and sustainable cost.
• As an ASE employee
• , you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values.

You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All applicants will receive consideration for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender or gender-identity, age, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability, pregnancy or parental status, or any other basis prohibited by law. If you are an individual with a disability, or have known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us at job-assist@akima.com or 571-353-7053 (information about job applications status is not available at this contact information).