Subject Matter Expert III; RF Engineer Able to Obtain Secret Clearance Alexandria, VA Post

Akima Systems Engineering is looking to hire a senior technical authority and Subject Matter Expert (SME) with deep expertise in RF engineering to lead research and technology insertion efforts for next‑generation maritime 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.

• This position is the senior technical authority and subject matter expert on RF broad spectrum signal initiatives, SDR (Software Defined Radios) and embedded RF systems.

• Lead the design and development of RF 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.

• Act as a subject matter expert on new maritime sensor technologies and related standards.

• Lead research into emerging RF sensor technologies for broad‑ spectrum signal detection (HF, VHF, UHF, microwave, and beyond) ensuring hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) 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.

• Lead teams in a laboratory setting to test and investigate new technologies with the intent for immediate insertion into operational environments either land, sea or air.

• 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 C5
  
  ISC SELC processes.

• Provide input as requested by the USCG in the development of Engineering Change documentation.

• Provide formal reports on any deficiencies identified as directed by the COR.

• Review for accuracy reports and documentation delivered as directed by the COR.

• Must be able to obtain a Secret clearance.

• Must be a US Citizen.

• At least 8 years of C4I System Engineering or RF engineering experience.

• Four‑year 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 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 signals Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Coast Guard RF technologies or other military RF technologies. Experience with maritime surveillance systems, SIGINT, or electronic warfare. Knowledge of AI/ML techniques for RF signal classification and anomaly detection.

• 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).

• 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.

• Excellent communication skills for stakeholder engagement and technical reporting.

• Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams.

Hybrid

Work Where it Matters

Ak…