RF Electrical Engineer – Space Antenna & Metamaterials

Leidos; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 108,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos in San Diego seeks an experienced RF Electrical Engineer to design, model, and validate electromagnetic technologies for space missions. You will work across RF antennas, metamaterials, and compact payloads, balancing analytical and hands-on lab activities.

You will prototype antenna characterization, integrate electronics, run tests in laboratory environments, and document results to support internal R&D and programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or related field with 8+ years of experience, or a Master's with 6+ years.
• US citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
• Experience with RF antenna modeling, simulation, or analysis.
• Familiarity with RF aperture performance metrics (Rx/Tx gain, EIRP, radiation efficiency).
• Experience in a laboratory environment, including anechoic chamber testing or characterization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Design, model, and validate electromagnetic technologies operating across the RF spectrum.
• Contribute to RF antenna modeling and performance analysis; assist with design trades and system-level evaluations.
• Support development of compact, high-performance payloads and prototype antenna characterization.
• Prototype antenna characterization, electronics integration, testing, and component/system characterization.
• Evaluate and mature emerging RF technologies (RF metamaterials, electrically small antennas); document results for internal R&D and programs.

Skills

RF antenna modeling

RF simulation

Laboratory testing

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Secret clearance

RF testbeds

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Physics

Master's degree in a related field

Doctorate in a technical domain

Tools

COMSOL

CST Microwave Studio

Job description

Leidos in San Diego seeks an experienced RF Electrical Engineer to design, model, and validate electromagnetic technologies for space missions. You will work across RF antennas, metamaterials, and compact payloads, balancing analytical and hands-on lab activities.

You will prototype antenna characterization, integrate electronics, run tests in laboratory environments, and document results to support internal R&D and programs.