Sr. Test Engineer

Loft Orbital Solutions; Golden (CO); On-site; USD 115,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Loft Orbital Solutions is seeking an RF AIT Engineer to lead the assembly, integration, and testing of RF subsystems for spacecraft. You will develop test plans, perform RF tests, and troubleshoot hardware to ensure mission success.

You will collaborate with RF system architects, electrical and mechanical engineers, and system engineers to optimize performance and ensure compatibility with spaceflight requirements. This role emphasizes rigorous testing and hands-on hardware work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 5 years in RF subsystem testing and integration.
• Experience in RF system integration, simulation, and performance analysis.
• Experience with payload RF systems, transceiver and amplifier design.
• Proven experience with RF testing tools (VNA, Spectrum Analyzer, RF chamber).
• Knowledge of EMI/EMC characterization is a plus.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the assembly and integration of RF subsystems into spacecraft.
• Ensure proper installation, wiring, and connectivity of RF hardware.
• Develop test plans and procedures for RF systems and components.
• Conduct RF tests to verify performance: sensitivity, SNR, frequency response.
• Troubleshoot RF hardware during testing and resolve issues.
• Prepare RF hardware for environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, EMI/EMC).
• Analyze environmental test results to verify requirements.
• Collaborate with RF architects and design engineers for optimization.
• Work with cross‑functional teams to integrate RF systems into spacecraft.

Skills

RF subsystem testing

RF integration

Test planning

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication skills

Space hardware familiarity

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

VNA

Spectrum Analyzer

RF chamber

Job description

Wanna join the adventure?

As our new RF AIT (Radio Frequency Assembly, Integration, and Test) Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the development, assembly, integration, and testing of RF (Radio Frequency) systems and components for Loft space missions. This role requires a strong background in RF engineering, electrical engineering, and space technology.

About the Role

• Lead the assembly and integration of RF subsystems and components into the spacecraft.
• Ensure proper installation, wiring, and connectivity of RF hardware according to design specifications.
• Develop test plans and procedures for RF systems and components.
• Conduct comprehensive RF tests to verify system performance, including sensitivity, signal‑to‑noise ratio, and frequency response.
• Troubleshoot and resolve RF hardware issues during testing.
• Prepare RF hardware for environmental testing, including thermal vacuum testing, vibration testing, and electromagnetic interference (EMI)/electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing.
• Analyze and report on environmental test results to ensure RF systems meet specified requirements.
• Collaborate with RF system architects and design engineers to perform system analysis and simulations for performance optimization.
• Work closely with cross‑functional teams, including electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and system engineers, to integrate RF systems into spacecraft successfully.
• Hands‑on experience with space hardware and spaceflight antennas, with a strong understanding of design intent.
• Proficiency in test engineering, including test design, validation, execution, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with tests such as EMI/EMC, GNC GPS testing, and TTNC (tracking telemetry and control).
• Knowledge of relevant software for testing and analysis.
• Familiarity with electrical check‑out procedures and environments, though emphasis lies more on rigorous testing rather than environmental testing.

Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in RF subsystem testing and integration.
• Proven experience in RF system integration, simulation, and performance analysis.
• Experience in payload RF systems, transceiver, and amplifier design.
• Proven experience with RF testing tools (VNA, Spectrum Analyzer, RF chamber).
• Knowledge in EMI/EMC characterization is a real plus for this position.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Nice to Haves

• Experience in Signal Processing algorithms

Salary: $115,000 - $180,000 per year.

State law requires us to tell you the base compensation range for this role, which is $115,000 - $180,000 per year. This is determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we evaluate individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy.

* Research shows that while men apply to jobs where they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other underrepresented people tend to only apply when they meet 100% of the qualifications. At Loft, we value respectful debate and people who aren’t afraid to challenge assumptions. We strongly encourage you to apply, even if you don’t check all the boxes.