Principal RF Engineer

Principal RF Engineer
Location: Can be based in El Segundo, California, Denver, Colorado or Austin, Texas, United States
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Package: $160K – $200K Base + Stock Options + Full Benefits

Are you an experienced RF Engineer looking to design cutting-edge phased array communications systems for the space and aerospace sectors?

On offer is the opportunity to lead the development of advanced RF hardware for a fast-scaling company building high-performance communications systems for satellites, UAVs, and launch vehicles. You’ll own the design and delivery of end-to-end RF electronics-from schematic and layout through test and in-orbit support.

Join a passionate, hands-on engineering team pioneering plug-and-play solutions for next-generation space platforms. You’ll contribute across the product lifecycle while mentoring others and leading technical programs.

This position would suit a senior-level RF engineer with deep technical experience and the desire to drive high-impact work in a collaborative startup environment.

Key Responsibilities
* Design and develop RF circuits, modules, and systems across the full product lifecycle.
* Deliver block diagrams, schematics, PCB layouts, simulations, and RF test plans.
* Lead the design of subsystems including front ends, mixers, filters, synthesizers, and phased arrays.
* Perform system-level RF analysis, including link budgets and modulation schemes.
* Work closely with cross-functional teams to integrate RF systems into airborne and space platforms.
* Own hardware from architecture through qualification, test, and customer delivery.
* Support proposal writing and present technical content in design reviews.
* Provide mentorship across the hardware team and lead technical efforts where required.

Essential Skills and Experience
* Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (Master’s preferred).
* 9+ years’ experience in RF system and circuit design.
* Fluent in industry-standard simulation and EDA tools (e.g., CST, ADS, Altium).
* Hands-on lab experience with VNAs, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and oscilloscopes.
* Strong grasp of RF architecture, component selection, layout best practices, and test strategy.
* Must meet ITAR/EAR requirements (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, asylee, refugee).
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Application Instructions
If you’re interested in this role, please apply or send your resume to jake.payne@newspacetechnical.com