RF & Electrical Testbed Engineer (Research I/II)

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech’s National Security Institute seeks a hands-on Research Engineer II to build and integrate electrical and RF subsystems for cutting-edge research testbeds in Blacksburg. You will support lab work, PCB layout, and collaboration with senior researchers across multiple disciplines.

The role requires US citizenship, ability to obtain a security clearance, and hands-on hardware experience. A BS/MS in Electrical/Computer Engineering is expected, with PCB design and lab fabrication skills

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen required due to federal sponsor.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Hands-on experience building, integrating, and troubleshooting electrical or RF hardware.
• Proficiency with tools germane to the field of research.
• Ability to work effectively in a team on research projects.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or related field.
• Ability to lift and move at least 25 pounds; able to navigate in labs and field settings.

Responsibilities

• Build, integrate, and test electrical and RF subsystems for research testbeds.
• Support researchers with RF hardware development, design drawings, and PCB layout.
• Contribute to proposal teams and business development within the Mission Systems Division.
• Author technical documentation including design drawings, test procedures, and test reports.

Skills

RF hardware

Electrical engineering

Teamwork

Schematic capture

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering

Master’s degree or significant post‑degree experience

Tools

Altium Designer

KiCad

MATLAB

HFSS

CST MicrowaveStudio

Job description

Virginia Tech’s National Security Institute seeks a hands-on Research Engineer II to build and integrate electrical and RF subsystems for cutting-edge research testbeds in Blacksburg. You will support lab work, PCB layout, and collaboration with senior researchers across multiple disciplines.

The role requires US citizenship, ability to obtain a security clearance, and hands-on hardware experience. A BS/MS in Electrical/Computer Engineering is expected, with PCB design and lab fabrication skills