Senior RF Engineer

Pace Industries, LLC; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 137,000 - 189,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plans

401(k) match up to 150%

Paid time off

Job summary

Sierra Space is seeking a Senior RF Engineer to design, develop and test RF systems for space-based platforms. You will own technical packages, mentor team members, and ensure traceable, compliant designs across the project lifecycle.

The role requires active security clearances and deep expertise in RF, optical, and avionics architectures, with a focus on mission-critical performance and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or higher in RF Engineering with extensive relevant experience.
• Experience as a Responsible Engineer driving hardware through full lifecycle.
• Strong background in RF space communications link budgets and coverage analysis.
• Knowledge of CCSDS, DVB-S2X, MIL-STD-461G, GSFC-STD-7000.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test RF systems and components for space applications.
• Own discrete technical packages and drive them to completion.
• Mentor engineers and document technical work for traceability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure integration into platforms.

Skills

RF Engineering

System architecture

Mentoring

Trade studies

V&V

Requirements parsing

Risk management

Cross-functional teamwork

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in RF Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

HFSS

CST

Network analyzers

Spectrum analyzers

Job description

Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

The Senior RF Engineer designs, develops, and tests advanced RF systems and components for space-based applications, including antennas, transmitters, receivers, and optics. This role requires specialized expertise in microwave and optical engineering, advanced knowledge of electrical and avionics systems architectures, and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex problems. You will conduct performance testing and validation of optical systems (e.g., optical power amplifiers and splitters), using advanced electrical design tools and methodologies to complete complex design tasks. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, you will help ensure project success and the seamless integration of RF systems into larger platforms. As a Responsible Engineer (RE), you will own discrete technical packages and drive them to successful execution and delivery. You will mentor and guide less experienced engineers, fostering a collaborative, learning-focused environment, and prepare and maintain technical documentation to ensure traceability and compliance with industry standards. You will also stay current with emerging RF technologies and industry trends, applying that knowledge to drive innovation and enhance system performance across ongoing projects.

About You

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission. We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in RF Engineering or a related engineering discipline and 8+ years of relevant experience.
• Or, a Master's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience serving as a Responsible Engineer (RE), driving hardware through its full lifecycle — development, qualification, integration & test, verification & validation, and certification.
• Experience developing RF space communications link budgets and coverage analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant industry standards, such as CCSDS, DVB-S2X, MIL-STD-461G, and GSFC-STD-7000.
• Advanced knowledge of optical, electrical, and avionics systems architectures and their design.
• Ability to mentor and guide less experienced engineers.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision on projects involving both small and large engineering teams.
• Knowledge of requirements management, including functional requirements parsing, derivation, and allocation.
• Knowledge of systems integration, technical risk identification and management strategies, and verification and validation (V&V) principles.
• Experience performing trade studies to support communication subsystem architecture decisions.
• An active Secret U.S. Security Clearance with eligibility to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience serving as an Optical System Responsible Engineer (RE), driving hardware through its full lifecycle — development, qualification, integration & test, verification & validation, and certification.
• Experience with communications hardware component procurement, including S-band transponders and antennas commonly used in space applications.
• Experience developing RF space communications link budgets and coverage analysis.
• Experience handling COMSEC equipment and knowledge of COMSEC requirements.
• Extensive proficiency with RF design and simulation tools such as HFSS or CST, and significant experience with RF measurement equipment, including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
• Deep understanding of RF system performance parameters such as gain, noise figure, and linearity.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with advanced RF technologies and their applications in space-based systems.
• Proven track record of managing complex technical projects and delivering successful outcomes.
• An active Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance with SCI eligibility.

Compensation

Pay Range: $137,443.00 - $188,983.00

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.

• medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline

This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.