Principal RF Communications Engineer

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. in Cambridge, MA seeks a Principal RF and Communications Engineer to design, develop, and troubleshoot RF and communications systems. The role requires deep RF expertise, analytical problem solving, and strong collaboration with cross-functional teams.

With 10+ years in RF or communications engineering, you will lead complex projects, mentor engineers, and drive capability expansion while delivering impactful solutions for national challenges.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in RF or communications engineering or related field.
• Must obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design RF and communications systems that solve challenging problems.
• Lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
• Perform analysis and modeling of complex radio frequency systems.
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert in RF and communications systems.

Skills

RF systems

Electrical fundamentals

RF instrumentation

RF software tools

Problem solving

Communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's in electrical engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The company employs over 2,000 people who address national challenges across multiple domains, from defense and space to biomedical engineering.

Job Summary

A Principal RF and Communications Engineer designs, develops, and troubleshoots radio frequency (RF) and communications systems. The role requires strong expertise in RF and communications, analytical problem‑solving, and collaboration with cross‑functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Design RF and communications systems that solve challenging problems.
• Manage complex engineering projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
• Perform analysis and modeling of complex radio frequency systems.
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert in RF and communications systems.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems – develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes.
• Analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capabilities in key areas to help sustain business growth.
• Help customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
• Advance state‑of‑the‑art solutions and techniques in their field.
• Contribute to capability expansion, talent acquisition, and mentoring of graduate students.
• Assemble and deliver customer presentations that inspire confidence in Draper and our work.
• Provide insights and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines.
• Identify program/system‑level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
• Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers.
• Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time‑management skills to achieve program goals.
• Lead cross‑functional teams.
• Support business development activities including leading the development of proposals and engaging with sponsors.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of RF systems and architectures.
• Knowledge of fundamentals of electrical engineering.
• Proficiency with RF and communications software tools.
• Hands‑on experience with instrumentation for RF measurements.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and willingness to work in a highly collaborative team environment.
• Excellent management and organizational skills: proven ability to meet deadlines, prioritize tasks, and maintain attention to detail.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field. Advanced degree preferred.

Experience

10+ years of experience in radio frequency or communications engineering or related field.

Additional Requirements

Applicants selected for this position must obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

EEO Statement

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment and programs. To request reasonable accommodation, contact [e-mail].