Radio Frequency Engineer

MMA Space™️; Broomfield (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

MMA Design, founded in Boulder and specializing in deployable mechanical systems for space, seeks a Space RF Engineer to design, develop and test RF hardware for space-based applications. You will cover materials selection, non-deployable and deployable antenna systems, and end-to-end RF development from concept to validation testing.

The role supports an engineering team delivering reliable communications and sensing missions in demanding space environments, with opportunities to shape future

Qualifications

• Experience designing RF systems for space-based applications.
• Ability to lead RF solutions from concept through flight readiness.
• Familiarity with radiation tolerance, ECSS/NASA compliance and materials selection.

Responsibilities

• Lead the definition of RF solutions in support of advanced antenna arrays for space applications.
• Own the antenna system from concept to design for manufacture, qualification, testing and flight readiness.
• Serve as an RF subject matter expert during customer discussions and proposals.
• Translate mission requirements into robust antenna designs.
• Apply physics-based, practical approaches to optimize performance and manufacturability.
• Design and develop RF systems and subsystems for spacecraft (transmitters, receivers, antennas, RF front ends).
• Coordinate with mechanical engineering for seamless RF integration and system optimization.
• Perform RF analysis, modeling, and simulations (link budgets, noise figure, gain, interference).
• Develop test plans and execute RF performance testing; analyze data to troubleshoot issues.

Skills

RF design

Antenna systems

RF analysis

Phased arrays

System integration

Testing

Material selection

Radiation tolerance

ECSS/NASA compliance

Vendor liaison

Job description

Space is our passion, and exploring is in our DNA. MMA Design is a dynamic, growing aerospace company specializing in unique deployable mechanical systems and antenna payload solutions. Founded in Boulder in 2007, we are building a great team by attracting, developing, and retaining exceptional people who are passionate about enabling the smallsat revolution and beyond. MMA values each employee’s unique contributions. Join our fun, collaborative and talented team who are committed to delivering high-quality, innovative products.

Only US Citizens may apply

Job Description:

We are seeking a talented Space RF Engineer to design, develop, and test radio frequency (RF) systems for space-based applications, including materials selection for non-deployable and deployable antenna systems including phased arrays, parabolic and active/passive membrane-based solutions. MMA is seeking an experienced engineer to establish deep RF expertise within the organization while helping shape future antenna and communications programs. This role supports the full lifecycle of RF hardware, from concept and prototyping through production and validation testing, to enable reliable communications and sensing missions in demanding space environments.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead the definition of RF solutions in support of advanced antenna arrays for space applications.
• Own the antenna system from concept to design for manufacture, qualification, testing and flight readiness.
• Serve as an RF subject matter expert during customer discussions, proposal efforts, and business development activities.
• Translate mission and system requirements into robust antenna design solutions.
• Apply critical thinking to challenge assumptions and drive optimal, physics-based solutions.
• Maintain a pragmatic and goal-oriented mindset, balancing performance, cost, schedule, risk, and manufacturability.
• Design and develop high-performance RF systems and subsystems for spacecraft, including transmitters, receivers, antennas, and RF front ends (e.g., phased arrays, reflectarrays, patch arrays, deployable architectures).
• Work in tight coordination with mechanical engineering to ensure seamless RF integration and optimized system performance.
• Perform RF analysis, modeling, and simulation (link budgets, noise figure, gain, interference, etc.)
• Support system architecture development for communications, telemetry, tracking, and payload applications
• Conduct component selection, schematic design, and layout guidance for RF circuits
• Select and qualify materials considering:
• EEE parts standards
• Radiation tolerance
• Thermal cycling
• Outgassing (ECSS/NASA compliance)
• Oversee prototype development, including PCB-based RF structures, waveguide assemblies, and hybrid solutions
• Interface with suppliers and manufacturing partners
• Drive iterative prototyping cycles with a practical, solution-oriented approach
• Develop test plans and execute testing for RF performance, including range testing, lab, environmental, and other system-level testing
• Analyze test data and troubleshoot RF performance issues