RF Design Engineer

Responsibilities

• Design, simulate, implement, and measure active and passive RF sub-systems at microwave frequencies (e.g., SSPAs, LNAs, power amplifiers, up/down converters, oscillators, filters)
• Manage hardware designs from initial requirements definition through manufacturing, bring-up, and qualification testing
• Integrate RF systems into the spacecraft by collaborating with mechanical, payload systems, electrical, and software engineering teams
• Specify, procure, and integrate third-party vendor hardware
• Assist in recruiting and interviewing new teammates to support team growth

Requirements

• BS in electrical engineering, physics, applied physics, or an equivalent field
• 1-6 years of professional experience
• Deep knowledge of fundamental RF concepts, including RF circuit analysis, noise, linearity, and radio architectures
• Hands-on experience designing, building, and testing RF hardware for microwave frequencies
• Proficiency with RF simulation tools such as ADS, Cadence, or HFSS
• Passion for hardware development in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
• U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status (required for export control compliance)

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or PhD in electrical engineering, physics, or applied physics
• Experience with PCB design, layout, and simulation (e.g., Altium)
• Experience with System in Package (SiP), multi-chip modules (MCM), or packaged RF hybrids
• Background in developing communications satellite payloads or designing high-reliability electronics for harsh environments (space or automotive)
• Experience designing SSPAs or implementing SSPA-based phased arrays
• Knowledge of antennas and electromagnetic propagation
• Experience with Software Defined Radios (SDR) and mixed-signal/high-speed digital skillsets
• Familiarity with Python or other scripting languages for test instrument automation

Benefits

• Competitive base salary ($120,000 - $165,000 USD)
• Significant equity package via incentive stock options
• High-quality company-subsidized healthcare
• Disability and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement planning
• Flexible PTO
• Free on-site catered meals

About the Company

Astranis builds advanced satellites for high orbits, expanding humanity’s reach into the solar system. We provide dedicated, secure networks to large enterprises, sovereign governments, and the US military. With five satellites already on orbit and a growing backlog of commercial contracts, Astranis is a leader in satellite communications, designing and operating our own hardware from our headquarters in Northern California.