RF Hardware Developer (ULF/VLF)

Syntronic Research and Development Canada Inc.; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Syntronic Research and Development Canada Inc. is looking for an experienced RF Systems Designer in Ottawa, Ontario. This role focuses on designing and analyzing RF signal chains for advanced communications systems in the LF, VLF, and HF frequency bands. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of experience in RF systems design and a strong understanding of electromagnetic theory.

The position involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and requires strong analytical skills. Relevant experience in maritime, naval, or aerospace applications is a plus and candidates must be eligible for Canadian secret clearance.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience developing RF, communications, or signal processing systems.
• Strong expertise in RF architecture and system performance.
• Experience with receiver and transmitter architectures.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop RF signal chain architectures.
• Analyze and optimize system-level RF performance.
• Support hardware integration, laboratory testing, and performance validation.

Skills

RF system design and analysis

Electromagnetic theory

Interference mitigation

Signal conditioning

Laboratory measurement tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Physics, or related

Tools

Spectrum analyzers

Vector network analyzers

Signal generators

Oscilloscopes

Job description

Job Title: RF Systems Designer

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 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.

This posting is for an active vacancy.

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.
• 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).

Nice-to-Have

• 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.