Satellite Antenna Engineer: Phased Arrays & RF Design

Associates Systems LLC; San Jose (CA); Remote; USD 90,921 - 129,494; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

PTO

401k

Job summary

A technology solutions provider in California is seeking a Satellite Antenna Engineer to design, develop, and integrate advanced antenna systems for satellite platforms. Ideal candidates should hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, possess strong RF theory skills, and be proficient in Python, MATLAB, or C++. The role includes responsibilities such as prototyping, testing, and collaborating with various engineering teams, contributing to cutting-edge space technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Ph.D. preferred for senior-level roles.
• Strong foundation in RF theory critical.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize advanced antenna architectures.
• Use EM simulation tools to model antenna performance.
• Build and characterize antenna prototypes.
• Conduct detailed antenna testing.
• Collaborate for systems integration.

Skills

RF theory

Impedance matching

Microwave network analysis

Beamforming

Python

MATLAB

C++

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Ph.D. in electromagnetics or antenna engineering

Tools

HFSS

CST

TICRA

Job description

• San Jose, California

Satellite Antenna Engineer
Location: San Jose California
Citizenship / Clearance Requirements: US Citizens with Ability to Obtain a Clearance
We are seeking a highly skilled Satellite Antenna Engineer to join our growing team and contribute to the design, development, and integration of advanced antenna systems for next‑generation satellite platforms. This role is ideal for engineers passionate about electromagnetics, RF systems, and cutting‑edge space technologies. Key Responsibilities
Antenna System Design

• Design and optimize advanced antenna architectures, including phased arrays, reflectors, and feed systems
• Develop solutions across Ku‑band, Ka‑band, and other SATCOM frequency ranges

EM Simulation & Modeling

• Use industry‑standard EM simulation tools (HFSS, CST, TICRA) to model antenna performance
• Analyze radiation patterns, gain, efficiency, and overall system behavior

Prototyping & Fabrication

• Build and characterize antenna prototypes and RF front‑end components
• Validate design performance through iterative prototyping and refinement

Testing & Measurement

• Conduct detailed antenna testing in anechoic chambers and near‑field measurement ranges
• Utilize VNAs, signal generators, and other RF test equipment to verify performance metrics

Systems Integration

• Collaborate with mechanical, thermal, and systems engineering teams to integrate antenna modules into satellite payloads
• Ensure antenna systems meet launch survivability and space‑environment requirements

Required Skills & Qualifications
Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Ph.D. in electromagnetics or antenna engineering preferred for senior‑level roles

Technical Skills

• Strong foundation in RF theory, impedance matching, microwave network analysis, and beamforming
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or C++ for automation, modeling, and data analysis
• Familiarity with PCB fabrication processes and commercial microwave materials

Several compensation options are available such as direct hire or consultancy. Hourly rates or comparable salary start at 80/hour and go up based on experience. Benefits (Health, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401k) can be available based on the compensation method chosen.