Senior RF Engineer

Senior RF Engineer
On-Site, Rockville, MD
Direct Hire
Salary Range: $130,000 to $170,000 annually, commensurate with skills and experience
Excellent Benefits

ALTA IT Services is staffing a direct hire opening for a Senior RF Engineer to support our client, a global leader in satellite communication systems, providing innovative and reliable solutions that empower connectivity worldwide. This is an on-site position based in Rockville, MD.


JOB SUMMARY
Senior RF Engineer with 7 years of experience and a strong background in RF/microwave transceiver design and development. This is a hands-on role ideal for an engineer who thrives in lab settings and is excited about advancing cutting-edge SatCom user terminal technologies.

As a key contributor in a multidisciplinary team, you will help develop, test, and qualify next-generation RF/microwave radio transceivers, particularly in the Ku and Ka bands. Your work will span from design through validation and productization, including automation of test procedures and prototype evaluation. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a direct impact on a fast-growing global product line.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, simulate, and model RF front-end systems in collaboration with systems architects and cross-functional engineers.
• Develop hardware specifications for RF systems and components, guiding functional design.
• Design and test RF/microwave circuits, circuit boards, and production-ready packages.
• Identify, evaluate, and validate new RF components for prototype and production use.
• Perform hands-on characterization and performance analysis of RF radios and components.
• Develop and support automated test equipment and scripts for lab measurements using Python.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams on test methods and support production scaling.
• Ensure design compliance with system and performance requirements through qualification testing.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• 8 years of hands-on lab experience in testing and characterizing RF/microwave circuits, including amplifiers and PLLs.
• 10 years of experience designing linear and non-linear circuits such as power amplifiers, LNAs, mixers, filters, and PLLs.
• 5 years of RF/microwave design using tools like ADS, Altium, HFSS, or equivalent.
• Experience with satellite communication technologies and phased array systems is a plus.
  

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Strong command of RF/microwave fundamentals and component design (e.g., PLL, VCOs, LNAs, amplifiers).
• Skilled with RF test equipment: spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers/generators, and network analyzers.
• Proficient in characterizing RF performance at microwave frequencies.
• Familiarity with digital communication theory and modulation techniques (QPSK, APSK, QAM).
• Programming experience with Python or LabVIEW for automated testing and analysis.
• Additional familiarity with tools like MATLAB and Jira is desirable.
  

SOFT SKILLS

• Collaboration: Collaborative team player who thrives in multidisciplinary environments.
• Problem-Solving: Demonstrates both analytic thinking and hands-on problem-solving skills—able to analyze complex challenges and proactively roll up their sleeves to test, troubleshoot, and resolve issues in a lab environment.
• Communication: Excellent communication and documentation skills to support cross-functional and external collaboration.
• Adaptability: Adaptable in a fast-paced, innovative R&D setting with evolving project needs.
  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to work in a laboratory environment, including handling, assembling, and testing RF components.
Comfortable with hands-on testing and bench work using various RF lab equipment.
Occasional travel may be required for vendor collaboration or manufacturing support.

BENEFITS
The company offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Flexible time off and paid holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with employer safe harbor match
• Professional development opportunities
• Annual performance-based bonus potential
  

PAY TRANSPARENCY
The estimated annual salary range for this role is $130,000 – $170,000. Actual compensation will vary based on experience, education, and qualifications. Additional elements, such as bonuses, may apply depending on the company and individual performance.

For consideration, please contact Melissa McNally via mmcnally@altaits.com

 




System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé, ALTA IT Services, and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.



System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.



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