RF Antenna Systems Engineer – Hardware & Modeling

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD seeks an RF Antenna Systems & Hardware Engineer to advance antenna modeling, measurement, and hardware integration for next‑generation defense applications.

You will develop analytical, simulation, and experimental techniques to optimize RF apertures and phased arrays, plan tests in lab and chamber environments, and collaborate with designers to translate results into system‑level recommendations.

Qualifications

• Master’s in Electrical Engineering with EM/RF concentration.
• 3+ years in antenna or RF aperture modeling, test, and measurement.
• Experience with commercial EM tools (HFSS/FEKO/CST/ADS).
• Hands-on experience with RF hardware (front ends, feed networks, LNAs, PAs).
• Strong MATLAB or Python for data processing and tooling.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% for tests and engagements.
• Active Secret Clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Develop antenna and RF aperture modeling and simulation tools to design and analyze performance.
• Plan, execute, and analyze antenna measurements in lab, chamber, and field environments.
• Lead rapid prototyping, integration, and debug of antenna systems and RF hardware.
• Collaborate with designers and engineers to translate results into system-level recommendations and brief sponsors.

Skills

Master’s in Electrical Engineering

RF modeling

MATLAB/Python

Travel up to 10%

Active Secret Clearance

Education

Master’s in Electrical Engineering or equivalent

PhD in Electrical Engineering (preferred)

Tools

HFSS

FEKO

CST

ADS

Vector Network Analyzers

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD seeks an RF Antenna Systems & Hardware Engineer to advance antenna modeling, measurement, and hardware integration for next‑generation defense applications.

You will develop analytical, simulation, and experimental techniques to optimize RF apertures and phased arrays, plan tests in lab and chamber environments, and collaborate with designers to translate results into system‑level recommendations.