Associate RF Engineer

Kratos Defense & Rocket Support Services, Inc; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Defense & Rocket Support Services, Inc is hiring an Associate RF Engineer in Birmingham, Alabama. This full-time position involves hands-on testing and support for RF systems in real-world environments.

Candidates must have a BS in Electrical Engineering or Physics, with 0-2 years of experience. Responsibilities include documenting RF architectures, performing benchtop testing, and troubleshooting RF hardware under pressure.

Selected candidates must be U.S. citizens and able to obtain a DOD SECRET security clearance.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance equivalent to DOD SECRET.
• 0-2 years experience in related fields.

Responsibilities

• Document RF architectures and perform RF benchtop testing.
• Support RF system operations during field tests and live demonstrations.
• Troubleshoot RF hardware and develop test procedures.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Quality Orientation

Planning and Organization

Technical Expertise

Education

BS Degree in Electrical Engineering or Physics

Tools

MATLAB

Job description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

This full-time position is in the Systems Development Department and is a highly motivated role that will participate in the testing and of electronic and radio-frequency (RF) systems for applications within the department. This position includes hands?on field work and live test/demonstration support at customer and test ranges, providing direct exposure to real?world RF environments and scenarios.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Document detailed schematics of RF architectures.
• Perform RF benchtop testing using signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzer, oscilloscopes, and power meters.
• Support the setup, calibration, and operation of RF systems at field tests, live demonstrations, and range events, including antenna deployment, RF cabling, and test instrumentation.
• Troubleshoot RF hardware, cabling, and test equipment under time?constrained, real?world conditions, coordinating closely with engineering teams.
• Develop and perform test procedures to validate new RF hardware.
• Analyze and interpret signals and waveforms.
• Process data using statistical tools, fitting algorithms, etc.
• Design, implement, maintain, and improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, components, products, and systems.
• Document each research stage in a clear and concise manner with figures that efficiently communicate the results.
• Interface with engineers and scientists of varying disciplines during the design of new systems.
• Participate in team assemblies to analyze, develop requirements, and make recommendations for moderate to complex systems.
• Prepare specifications for purchase of components and equipment.
• Perform trade studies on components for RF systems.
• Ensure individual responsibilities within projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget.
• Travel to customer sites, field locations, and deployment sites as required, potentially including OCONUS locations (estimated 25-50%)

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.
• Strong analytical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Performs other duties as required by supervisor.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

KEYWORD: Associate RF Engineer

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Attention to Detail Ensures details of assigned tasks are followed.
• Quality Orientation Accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved; not matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes, procedures, and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
• Planning and Organization Systematically identified issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives.
• Technical Expertise Applies functional knowledge, skills, experience, and judgement to accomplish a result, serve customers better and contribute to the organizationis intellectual capital.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required Qualifications:

• US Citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DOD) SECRET
• BS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics with 0-2 years experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with MATLAB.
• Digital and/or analog electrical hardware design.
• Strong mathematical/analytical problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Environment & Conditions

This position involves work in an office and laboratory environment and could require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including:

• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection (varies based on tasks)
• Shoe covers

In performing the work for this position, the engineer must be able to:

• Perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
• Sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
• Climb ladders and stairs in performing the work.