RF Hardware Developer (ULF/VLF)

Syntronic - A Global Design House; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 126,000 - 188,000; Full time

Job summary

Syntronic in Canada seeks an experienced RF Systems Designer to develop and integrate advanced communications systems operating in LF, VLF and HF bands, from concept through validation.

You will design RF signal paths, perform simulations, collaborate with hardware, FPGA and software teams, and ensure EMC and system performance targets are met. 10+ years of RF/signal processing experience and eligibility for Canadian security clearance are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of RF, communications, or signal processing experience.
• Experience with LF/VLF/HF bands and high-power PA design.
• Secret clearance eligibility in Canada.

Responsibilities

• Design RF signal chain architectures for 3 kHz–30 MHz systems.
• Analyze and optimize system-level RF performance and noise figure.
• Develop subsystem specs and interface definitions from objectives.
• Perform simulations and trade studies to compare designs.
• Support hardware integration, lab testing, and validation.
• Collaborate with hardware, FPGA, software, systems, and test teams.
• Investigate RF performance issues and EMC concerns.
• Prepare documentation, test plans, and design reviews.

Skills

RF system design

Signal processing

FPGA/DSP exposure

Test & validation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Spectrum analyzers

Vector network analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Lab measurement tools

Job description

Join Syntronic: Where Your Innovation Shapes the Future

At Syntronic, we don't just follow industry trends—we set them! Join us in partnering with visionary companies and the brightest minds to turn ground-breaking ideas into reality. Imagine working on cutting-edge telecom advancements, pioneering automotive tech, life-saving healthcare innovations, and next-gen industrial automation. Our projects are diverse, impactful, and at the forefront of technological innovation. Be a part of something extraordinary!

Who are we?

Syntronic is a global leader in design and development, specializing in electronics, electro-mechanics, and software. We’re not just a company; we’re a community of innovators. Our teams work on projects that define the future—from creating state-of-the-art communication systems and autonomous vehicles to advancing IoT solutions that revolutionize everyday life. At Syntronic, your work will make a real difference.

What We're Looking For

• Collaborate with top-tier clients on transformative, cutting-edge projects.
• Engage with and learn from industry leaders
• Innovate from concept to completion, ensuring high standards.
• Gain international experience on global projects.
• Thrive in an entrepreneurial environment that supports new ideas.
• Explore multiple sectors like telecommunications, automotive, healthcare, and industrial automation.

We are seeking an experienced RF Systems Designer to support the development and integration of advanced communications systems operating in the LF, VLF, and HF frequency bands. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, analysis, integration, and validation of RF signal chains used in challenging operating environments. This role requires strong expertise in low-frequency RF architectures, receiver and transmitter subsystems, filtering, signal integrity, and system-level performance analysis. The ideal candidate combines deep technical knowledge with a practical, hands-on approach to product development and system validation.

What You'll Do

• Design and develop RF signal chain architectures, including receiver, transmitter, filtering, amplification, and signal conditioning functions for communications systems operating between 3 kHz and 30 MHz.
• Analyze and optimize system-level RF performance, including sensitivity, dynamic range, selectivity, noise figure, interference mitigation, and signal integrity.
• Develop subsystem specifications, design requirements, and interface definitions based on system-level performance objectives.
• Perform simulations, calculations, and trade studies to evaluate RF architectures, component selections, and design alternatives.
• Support hardware integration, laboratory testing, troubleshooting, and performance validation activities throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including hardware, FPGA, software, systems, and test specialists to develop integrated communications solutions.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical issues related to RF performance, electromagnetic compatibility, and system integration.
• Prepare technical documentation, test plans, design reports, and engineering recommendations while supporting design reviews and customer discussions.

What You'll Need To Get The Job Done

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of experience developing RF, communications, or signal processing systems.
• VLF High-power Class D/E PA design experience
• Strong expertise in RF system design and analysis within LF, VLF, HF, or similar communications frequency bands.
• Experience with receiver and transmitter architectures, filtering, low-noise amplification, frequency conversion, and signal conditioning techniques.
• Proficiency using RF simulation, analysis, and laboratory measurement tools including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, vector network analyzers, and oscilloscopes.
• Strong understanding of electromagnetic theory, noise sources, interference mechanisms, and RF system performance metrics.
• Currently hold or eligible to obtain Canadian secret clearance (currently hold valid PR status or Citizenship in Canada + 10 years verifiable history).

What Will Make Us REALLY Love You

Experience developing communications systems for maritime, naval, aerospace, defense, or other mission-critical applications.

Familiarity with antenna systems, propagation characteristics, and communications techniques in LF, VLF, and HF frequency ranges.

Experience with digital signal processing, modem technologies, software-defined radio platforms, or FPGA-based communications systems.

Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with experience supporting complex system integration and verification activities.

$90,000 - $135,000 a year

This posting is for an active vacancy.

What You’ll Love About Us

At Syntronic, our employees are our greatest asset. We foster innovation, collaboration, and excellence, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Join a global community that values creativity and diversity.

Ready to Shape the Future with Us?

If you’re ready to elevate your career and be part of a team that’s making a real impact, we want to hear from you.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.