RF Engineer

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage

401(k) Savings Plan

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Paid Time-Off (PTO)

Education Reimbursement

Job summary

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions in Birmingham, Alabama, is looking for a motivated engineer to join the Systems Development Department. You will actively participate in the design and implementation of RF systems while engaging in hands-on field work that offers direct exposure to real-world scenarios.

This role requires technical expertise in RF testing, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills, working alongside engineers and customers. A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or Physics is preferred for this full-time position.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DoD) SECRET.
• 3-5 years’ experience in related fields.

Responsibilities

• Perform RF benchtop testing using signal generators and analyzers.
• Support setup, calibration, and operation of RF systems at field tests.
• Troubleshoot RF hardware and test equipment under time constraints.

Skills

Troubleshooting RF chains

Customer interaction skills

Analytical problem-solving

Attention to detail

Technical expertise

Education

MS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics

BS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics with 3-5 years’ experience

Tools

MATLAB

Job description

Job Description

This full‑time position is in the Systems Development Department and is a highly motivated role that will participate in the design and implementation of electronic and radio‑frequency (RF) systems for applications within the department. The role includes hands‑on field work and live test/demonstration support at customer and test ranges, providing direct exposure to real‑world RF environments and scenarios. It offers a blend of lab, field, and customer‑facing work, ideal for engineers who want technical depth in RF plus exposure to systems engineering, integration, and testing.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Perform RF benchtop testing using signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, oscilloscopes, and power meters.
• Lead RF experimentation efforts at field sites under the guidance of senior engineers, providing early opportunities for technical ownership.
• Support the setup, calibration, and operation of RF systems at field tests, live demonstrations, and range events, including antenna deployment, RF cabling, and test instrumentation.
• Troubleshoot RF hardware, cabling, and test equipment under time‑constrained, real‑world conditions, coordinating closely with engineering teams.
• Assist in developing test execution plans and quick‑reaction procedures tailored to field environments (e.g., limited power, site constraints).
• Maintain detailed configuration records for fielded test setups (equipment IDs, cable runs, firmware versions, settings) to enable repeatable tests.
• Capture field lessons learned and feed them back into design, test procedures, and documentation to improve future deployments and demonstrations.
• Develop and perform test procedures to validate new RF hardware and control software.
• Analyze and interpret signals and waveforms.
• Interface with engineers and scientists of varying disciplines during the design of new systems.
• Participate in team assemblies to analyze, develop requirements, and make recommendations for moderate to complex systems.
• Prepare specifications for purchase of components and equipment.
• Perform trade studies on components for RF systems.
• Ensure individual responsibilities within projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget.
• Travel to customer sites, field locations, and deployment sites as required, potentially including OCONUS locations (estimated 25‑50%).

Other Job Functions

• Self‑motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.
• Strong analytical skills and creative problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Performs other duties as required by supervisor.

Experience And Skills

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Strong hands‑on troubleshooting skills with RF chains in the field (e.g., identifying connector, cable, and impedance issues; diagnosing signal anomalies under real‑world interference).
• Comfortable interacting directly with customers and range personnel; able to represent the RF team professionally in field and demo settings.
• Attention to detail – Ensures details of assigned tasks are followed.
• Quality orientation – Accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved; not matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes, procedures, and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
• Planning and organization – Systematically identified issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives.
• Technical expertise – Applies functional knowledge, skills, experience, and judgement to accomplish a result, serve customers better and contribute to the organization’s intellectual capital.

Education and Experience

Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DoD) SECRET.
• MS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics or BS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics with 3‑5 years’ experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Comfortable interacting directly with customers and range personnel; able to represent the RF team professionally in field and demo settings.
• Experience with MATLAB.
• Experience working with waveform data in both the frequency and time domains.
• Digital and/or analog electrical hardware design.
• Strong mathematical/analytical problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self‑motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

Work Environment & Conditions

This position involves work in an office and laboratory environment and could require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including:

• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection (varies based on tasks)
• Shoe covers

Physical Demands

• Perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
• Sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
• Climb ladders and stairs in performing the work.

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

EEO Statement

Kratos Defense is an equal‑opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EEO, minorities, females, veteran, disabled, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America’s veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.