RF Hardware Engineer for Research Testbeds

Women In Science; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech National Security Institute (VTNSI) in Blacksburg, VA seeks a Research Engineer II to build and integrate RF subsystems for cutting-edge national security research. You will fabricate hardware, lay out PCBs, and generate design drawings while collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams in the Mission Systems Division.

The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, equipment testing, and documentation. Requires U.S.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required due to sponsor and security requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Hands-on experience building, integrating, and troubleshooting RF hardware.
• Proficiency with field-specific tools for RF engineering.
• Strong teamwork skills and ability to contribute to research projects.
• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical/Computer Engineering or related field.
• Physical ability to lift equipment and operate in lab/field environments.

Responsibilities

• Build, integrate, and test electrical and RF subsystems for research testbeds.
• Support RF hardware development, design drawings, and PCB layout for researchers.
• Contribute to new funded research programs through collaboration on proposals.
• Author technical documentation including drawings and test reports.

Skills

RF hardware prototyping

PCB design/layout

Schematic capture

RF testing

Subsystem integration

Embedded systems

Python/MATLAB scripting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Altium Designer

KiCad

Eagle

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Virginia Tech National Security Institute (VTNSI) in Blacksburg, VA seeks a Research Engineer II to build and integrate RF subsystems for cutting-edge national security research. You will fabricate hardware, lay out PCBs, and generate design drawings while collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams in the Mission Systems Division.

The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, equipment testing, and documentation. Requires U.S.