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Spectrum Engineer
Career Insights for Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer
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What they do
A Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer works with technology and electronic equipment that uses radio waves, from cell phones to radio stations. Designs, installs, and repairs systems and equipment that transmit radio signals. May specialize in design or maintenance; may focus on the design of transmission equipment, such as radio antennae, or manage larger systems such as networks of cell phone towers.
$122,043 / year median in Virginia
-11% projected decline
Job Description
Company DescriptionBryceTech is a trusted leader in complex technology domains, delivering data-driven solutions in aerospace, biosecurity, and defense. We specialize in systems engineering, advanced analytics, R D programs, and strategic advisory support. Our clients - including NASA, DoD, HHS, DHS, and other civil and national security agencies - rely on us to drive mission success and accelerate innovation.
BryceTech has been recognized in the Washington Technology Fast 50 ranking of top high-growth small businesses for five consecutive years and received a GovCon Contractor of the Year Award in 2025, underscoring our strong growth, competitive positioning, and excellence in federal contracting. With a proven track record of winning sought-after contracts, scaling high-performance teams, and executing on critical government missions, BryceTech presents a compelling opportunity for strategic partnerships in the GovCon space.
Job DescriptionBryceTech is seeking a Spectrum Engineer to support the Space Development Agency (SDA) in the acquisition and deployment of advanced space-based communications and transport capabilities. The Spectrum Engineer will support spectrum management, frequency coordination, and spectrum authorization activities for SDA satellite and ground systems, working across government, industry, SETA, FFRDC, and other stakeholder organizations.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with the DoD spectrum management and authorization process, including preparation and coordination of DD Form 1494, use of spectrum management tools such as EL-CID, E2ESS, and Stepstone, and development of frequency plans in accordance with NTIA and ITU regulations. This individual will help shepherd spectrum requests through the appropriate government approval processes and analyze potential interference and compatibility issues associated with SDA's evolving space architecture.
Key ResponsibilitiesSupport spectrum certification and authorization activities for SDA space and ground systems, including satellite communications and transport systemsDevelop, prepare, and coordinate DD Form 1494 spectrum support requests and shepherd documentation through the required review and approval processesUse NTIA and DoD spectrum management tools, including EL-CID, E2ESS, Stepstone, and other applicable systemsDevelop and coordinate frequency plans in accordance with the NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management (Redbook) and applicable ITU regulationsDevelop and submit Advanced Publication Information (API) packages to support ITU coordination, notification, and protection of space and terrestrial systemsConduct radio frequency interference and electromagnetic compatibility analyses to identify potential impacts to existing and planned RF systemsCoordinate with incumbent spectrum users and other stakeholders to resolve interference concerns and develop appropriate mitigation proceduresApply relevant DoD-specific spectrum management requirements and footnotes contained within the NTIA Redbook, including requirements applicable to Link-16 and other DoD radio communication systemsSupport coordination with spectrum management organizations, committees, and working groups, including the NASA-DoD-DoC (NDD) coordination group and NTIA Spectrum Planning Subcommittee (SPS)Coordinate spectrum certification activities with organizations such as the Air Force Spectrum Management Office (AFSMO), Navy Marine Corps Spectrum Center (NMSC), and Space Systems Command Spectrum Management Office (SSC SMO)Apply knowledge of RF fundamentals, including transmitter, receiver, and antenna characteristics, emission designators, frequency assignments, and ground terminal interactionsAnalyze spectrum requirements within the context of space vehicle and ground system architecturesProvide technical support for the acquisition and deployment of SDA transport and communications satellites and associated ground systemsDevelop technical analyses, reports, briefings, and other materials for government and senior decision makersParticipate in technical interchange meetings and coordinate with government, SETA, FFRDC, contractor, industry, and other external stakeholdersTrack spectrum authorization actions, identify potential issues or delays, and work proactively with stakeholders to achieve required approvalsProvide additional spectrum management, RF engineering, and technical support as assignedQualificationsRequired QualificationsActive Top Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility (TS/SCI)Bachelor's degree and at least 5 years of relevant experiencePrior professional experience in spectrum management and the spectrum authorization processExperience supporting the preparation, submission, and coordination of DD Form 1494Experience with DoD or federal spectrum management processes and organizationsAbility to possess and maintain a Secret security clearanceWorking knowledge of RF systems and spectrum-dependent communications systemsAbility to communicate effectively with government, contractor, industry, and external stakeholdersStrong written and oral communication skillsPreferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics)Experience with EL-CID, E2ESS, Stepstone, or comparable DoD/NTIA spectrum management toolsExperience developing and submitting ITU Advanced Publication Information (API)Experience developing frequency plans in accordance with the NTIA Redbook and applicable ITU regulationsExperience conducting RF interference analysis, spectrum compatibility assessments, or electromagnetic compatibility analysisFamiliarity with DoD-specific NTIA Redbook footnotes and spectrum requirements associated with Link-16 and other DoD communication systemsExperience working with
AFSMO, NMSC, SSC
SMO, or comparable spectrum management organizationsExperience with the NDD coordination group, NTIA SPS, or other federal spectrum coordination bodiesExperience supporting space vehicle, satellite communications, SATCOM, or ground terminal systemsExperience with RF system analysis, modeling, and simulation at the individual system or constellation levelFamiliarity with modeling and simulation tools such as STK, AFSIM, and CoastDemonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and persist through complex interagency and regulatory approval processesAbility to develop and deliver clear technical briefings to senior government and program leadershipAdditional InformationBryceTech offers a full range of benefits, including competitive salary, a comprehensive health plan including dental and vision coverage, company-paid life & disability insurance policies, 401(k) plan with company match, and an educational reimbursement program.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.