Senior Antenna RF Test Engineer

Intellian Technologies; Rockville (MD); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) plan

Annual bonus

Job summary

Intellian Technologies, based in Rockville, MD, seeks a Senior Antenna RF Test Engineer to lead characterization and validation of Ku/Ka-band phased array antennas. You will oversee CATR and NFS testing, interpret complex data, and correlate results with EM simulations to optimize calibration and measurement approaches.

The role requires 5+ years of RF/antenna testing, strong EM/Phased Array knowledge, and hands-on experience with VNA/PNA, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering or related field; MS/PhD preferred.
• 5+ years RF/antenna testing experience.
• Strong EM, antenna theory, and phased-array knowledge.
• Proficiency with VNA/PNA, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
• Experience with CATR, near-field, or far-field chambers and calibration.

Responsibilities

• Lead characterization of Ku/Ka-band phased array antennas including gain, radiation patterns, G/T, EIRP, and beamforming performance.
• Perform root-cause analysis when measurements deviate from simulations (HFSS, CST) to identify design/manufacturing/test setup issues.
• Part of team to support development of production fixtures for array calibration.
• Operate and optimize CATR and NFS systems; oversee near-field to far-field transformation.
• Collaborate with Antenna Design, HW, and System teams to validate OTA throughput and resolve field issues.
• Mentor junior engineers and coordinate with PMs to manage test backlogs.

Skills

RF testing

Antenna theory

Phased arrays

VNA/PNA

Spectrum analyzers

Signal generators

C ATR calibration

Education

BS in EE / Electromagnetics

MS/PhD preferred

Tools

HFSS

CST

ADS

Job description

Intellian Technologies is the world’s leading provider of premium satellite communications systems featuring the most advanced innovative technology available. Our mission is to empower connectivity so connectivity can empower the world.

As a Senior Antenna RF Test Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development and validation of our next-generation Phased Array Flat-Panel Antennas. This onsite position goes beyond data collection; we are looking for an expert who can interpret complex measurement data, correlate results with EM simulations, and provide deep technical insights into antenna performance. You will oversee testing in CATR and NFS environments, troubleshoot system-level RF issues, and drive the optimization of our calibration and measurement frameworks.

• Lead the characterization of Ku/Ka-band phased array antennas, including Gain, Radiation Patterns, G/T, EIRP, and Beamforming performance.
• Perform root-cause analysis when measurements deviate from simulations (e.g., HFSS, CST). You must be able to identify whether discrepancies stem from design, manufacturing tolerances, or test setup.
• Part of team to support the development of production fixtures for array calibration.
• Operate and optimize CATR (Compact Antenna Test Range) and NFS (Near-Field Scanner) systems. Oversee the transition from near-field data to far-field transformation.
• Work closely with the Antenna Design, HW, and System teams to validate OTA (Over-The-Air) throughput and resolve field-reported issues.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with Project Managers (PMs) to manage test backlogs and ensure timely delivery of results.
• Responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of multiple onsite CATRs and NFS test facilities.
• Performs other related duties as assigned that pertain to the position.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Electromagnetics, or a related field (M.S. or Ph.D. preferred).
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in RF/Antenna testing.
• Strong fundamental knowledge of Electromagnetics, Antenna Theory, and Phased Array principles (beamforming, grating lobes, etc.).
• Expert-level proficiency with VNA/PNA, Spectrum Analyzers, and Signal Generators.
• Direct experience with CATR, Near-Field, or Far-Field anechoic chambers and their respective calibration methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Previous experience in Antenna Design (HFSS, CST, or ADS) is highly desirable to better interpret measurement/simulation correlations.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data post-processing, visualization, and test automation.
• Proven track record of identifying "the story behind the data"—moving beyond reporting numbers to explaining physical phenomena.
• Ability to distill complex technical findings into actionable reports for leadership and cross-functional teams.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk working on computers.
• Continually required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
• Must be able to lift up to at least 25 pounds at times.
• Ability to traverse to multiple locations.

About Intellian Technologies

Intellian is the world’s leading provider of satellite antennas and terminals, with a mission to empower connectivity so connectivity can empower the world. We are driven by a passion for innovation and agile responsiveness to customer needs. As the crucial link between satellite networks and millions of people on Earth, Intellian’s leading technology and antennas empower global connectivity across oceans and continents, organizations, and communities. Strategic thinking, an obsession with quality, and a proven ability to deliver enable Intellian to invent for the future, creating mutual success for partners and customers as the world’s connectivity needs evolve.

We offer a generous benefits package, including flexible time off and paid holidays. Eligible employees also have access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability coverage. A 401(k) plan with employer safe harbor is available. Additional compensation elements may be offered depending on the role, which may include an opportunity for an annual bonus based on both company and individual performance.