Senior Low Observables Engineer - Mission Systems

Anduril Industries; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 146,000 - 194,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans

Generous paid time off

Retirement plans with employer match

Job summary

A defense technology company is seeking a Senior Low Observables Engineer in Costa Mesa, California. This role involves designing antennas for unmanned air vehicles, requiring extensive RF experience and proficiency in various antenna modeling tools. Candidates must have a BS degree in a STEM field and an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance. The position offers a salary range of $146,000—$194,000 with competitive benefits including comprehensive medical plans and retirement savings options.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of R&D experience in RF and antennas.
• In-depth knowledge of aperture antennas and impedance matching.
• Proficient in antenna measurement techniques.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of antennas for unmanned air vehicles.
• Perform link-budget analysis for RF system architecture.
• Lead antenna design development through rapid prototyping.

Skills

RF concepts understanding

Programming in MATLAB

Communication skills

Education

BS or higher degree in STEM discipline

Tools

HFSS

CST Microwave Studio

SENTRi

ADS

FEKO

Job description

Senior Low Observables Engineer - Mission Systems

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company dedicated to transforming U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing 21st‑century innovation to the defense industry, Anduril designs, builds, and sells systems powered by the Lattice OS, an AI‑driven operating system that aggregates thousands of data streams into a real‑time command and control center.

The Air Dominance and Strike Low Observable Team is advancing next‑generation low‑observable technology to enhance unmanned air system survivability. Our Low Observables engineering team designs, analyzes, tests, and sustains stealth features that reduce radar (RCS) and infrared (IR) signatures, keeping systems undetectable in contested environments.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of antennas for low‑observable unmanned air vehicles.
• Design, simulate, and optimize antennas to meet RF performance while maintaining radar cross‑section and cross‑section requirements.
• Perform link‑budget analysis and develop RF system architecture trades, including required antenna gain, pattern coverage, and co‑site interference.
• Lead IR&D development of antenna designs through rapid design and prototyping to support emerging program needs.
• Collaborate with subcontractors and internal teams to integrate antenna systems onto unmanned platforms.
• Develop analysis tools, workflows, and validation processes for antenna predictions.
• Plan and execute antenna performance and RCS testing of low‑observable antennas and installed antenna testing components.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of R&D experience in general RF and antennas.
• In-depth knowledge of RF concepts, including aperture antennas, impedance matching, and Smith charts.
• Proficiency in antenna prototyping tools and techniques.
• Experience with antenna modeling and prediction tools such as CEM tools, HFSS, CST Microwave Studio, SENTRi, ADS, and FEKO.
• Strong programming skills in MATLAB, C++, and Python for building RF analytical tools.
• Proficient in antenna measurement techniques, including anechoic chamber, near‑field/far‑field RF measurements, and RCS measurements.
• BS or higher degree in a STEM discipline.
• Must possess an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing low‑observable apertures.
• Experience in phased array designs, RF front‑ends, and testing.
• Hands‑on maintenance experience with low‑observable aircraft.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, autonomously driven, demanding environment.

Salary Range

$146,000—$194,000 USD, including competitive equity grants.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost for US roles; full cost or annual contribution for UK, AUS, and IE roles.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedules.
• Family planning support, including fertility treatments, adoption, and gestational carriers.
• Mental health resources, including 24/7 access and legal/financial support.
• Professional development reimbursement.
• Commuter benefits and relocation assistance where applicable.

Retirement Savings

• US roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after‑tax options.
• UK & IE roles: Pension plan with employer match.
• AUS roles: Superannuation plan.

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