RF Engineer: Antenna Systems

We are seeking an experienced Senior RF Antenna Engineer to provide technical leadership for the installation and integration of a new ground satellite system into NASA’s communications network. This role requires antenna engineering expertise and systems integration experience to ensure successful technical implementation and operational performance. Core responsibilities include:

Lead all technical aspects of antenna system validation, installation oversight, and performance optimization to ensure seamless integration with NASA’s communications network.

Interface with NASA centers, contractors, vendors, and operations teams to resolve technical requirements, provide antenna expertise, and support integration milestones.

Lead antenna system performance testing, validate RF characteristics against specifications, oversee technical acceptance criteria, and support final system validation and operational readiness assessments.

Identify and assess antenna-related technical risks, develop mitigation strategies, and lead resolution of complex RF and antenna performance issues during installation and integration.

Provide technical expertise during handoff to operational teams, including technical training, antenna maintenance procedures, and operational performance optimization guidance.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar fields.

Years of experience: 15+ years of antenna engineering experience in satellite communications or related fields. Graduate work can contribute toward years of experience.

Work Authorization:
Candidate must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident.

This is a full-time, on-site position in Cleveland, OH or Greenbelt, MD.

• Expert knowledge of antenna design principles, RF analysis, and electromagnetic modeling tools
• Experience with satellite ground station antenna systems and installation
• Familiarity with capabilities of NASA space communications networks (e.g. Space Relay (SR), Near Space Network (NSN), Direct to Earth (DTE), and Deep Space Network (DSN)) and/or commercial networks.
• Deep understanding of RF systems, link budgets, and antenna pattern analysis
• Experience with antenna measurement techniques and validation procedures
• Knowledge of interference analysis and mitigation strategies
• Familiarity with NASA technical standards and system integration processes
• Experience with ground station equipment integration and commissioning
• Strong technical communication skills for presenting complex antenna engineering concepts to diverse audiences