Radio Frequency (RF) Systems Engineer
About the role
Seeking a highly skilled Radio Frequency (RF) Systems Engineer to support the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) Spacecraft Engineering Division, Mission Operations Branch (Code 8250). This position supports the NRL Blossom Point Tracking Facility (BPTF)—a mission-critical site for multi-mission satellite Command and Control (C2) and space communication operations. You’ll be part of a small, agile engineering team providing research, development, testing, and operational support for satellite ground systems used in National Security Space missions. This is a hands-on technical position that combines RF engineering, systems integration, and innovation in support of secure, resilient spacecraft operations.
Job Responsibilities
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Must Have:
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Active TS/SCI clearance (or TS with SCI eligibility).
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U.S. citizenship required.
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Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field.
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3+ years of RF systems engineering experience.
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Experience in Software Defined Radio (SDR) and RF chain design, integration, and testing.
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Ability to work 100% onsite at the Blossom Point Facility (Welcome, MD).
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Availability for occasional local travel to NRL (Washington, D.C.) and other ground sites.
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Desired Experience:
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Expertise in SDR and HPA integration.
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Familiarity with National Security Space ground equipment and Space Control Network (SCN).
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Experience with RF simulation tools (MATLAB, STK) and test instruments (Spectrum Analyzers).
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Understanding of cybersecurity principles for satellite communications.
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Familiarity with IP-based RF systems, multi-level secure environments, and system licensing/spectrum management.
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Experience with GEO, LEO, or deep-space satellite RF systems.
Required skills
Preferred skills
Job Requirements
- Design and integrate RF systems into complex, software-centric satellite command and control architectures.
- Develop and automate Software Defined Radio (SDR) RF chains and related control systems.
- Perform link budget analysis, interference mitigation, and multi-band (S/L/Ku/Ka/X) frequency performance validation.
- Support mission onboarding of new and developmental space vehicles through RF configuration and testing.
- Conduct RF compatibility testing during design, factory test, and on-orbit phases.
- Collaborate with IT, software, and IA teams to develop system requirements, implement solutions, and test performance.
- Assist with procurement and integration of RF hardware (HPAs, SDRs, ACUs, analyzers).
- Support licensing and compliance activities related to spectrum management.
- Contribute to system documentation, process improvement, and design reviews.
- Stay current with emerging RF and satellite technologies to enhance system innovation and reliability.
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Job details
