Flight-Ready RF Components Engineer II

Varda Space; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 144,000 - 208,000; Full time

Job summary

Varda Space is seeking an RF Components Engineer II to own the complete lifecycle of RF flight components, from specifications to qualification testing. You will collaborate with RF Systems Engineers and other teams to ensure hardware readiness for space deployments, while driving rigorous testing and documentation practices.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing, extreme ownership, and developing test software, with an on-site presence in El Segundo, CA.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a related field.
• Open to candidates of all experience levels, with role and responsibility adjustments made accordingly.
• Strong hands-on experience with RF test equipment including VNAs, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, function generators, power meters and power supplies.
• Familiarity with RF components including LNAs, power amplifiers, mixers, filters, oscillators/synthesizers, attenuators, and switches.
• Experience designing and integrating RF components into complete transmit or receive signal chains.
• Proven track record of extreme ownership over projects, leading them to successful completion.
• Proficiency with Python, familiarity with test software libraries like PyVISA for communication with test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Responsible Engineer for RF flight components, including radios, power amplifiers, antennas and filters.
• Collaborate with RF Systems Engineers to refine product specifications, select or design appropriate components, and oversee the entire product lifecycle.
• Work closely with Flight Software, Structures, and Integration & Test teams to document cross-functional interface requirements for a successful deployment of hardware onto the flight vehicle.
• Take ultimate ownership of product acceptance and qualification testing for space environments, including Thermal, Vibration, Shock, TVAC, and EMI.
• Develop test software to automate equipment, stimulate, and measure component performance, ensuring consistent flight hardware readiness.
• Conduct root cause analysis on test failures and implement comprehensive mitigation strategies for flight risks.

Skills

RF engineering

Python

Test software

Root cause analysis

Ownership mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or RF Engineering

Tools

VNA

Spectrum analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Function generators

Power meters

Power supplies

PyVISA

Job description

Varda Space is seeking an RF Components Engineer II to own the complete lifecycle of RF flight components, from specifications to qualification testing. You will collaborate with RF Systems Engineers and other teams to ensure hardware readiness for space deployments, while driving rigorous testing and documentation practices.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing, extreme ownership, and developing test software, with an on-site presence in El Segundo, CA.