We are seeking an experienced Senior RF Antenna Engineer to provide technical leadership for the installation and integration of a new ground satellite system into NASA’s communications network. This role requires antenna engineering expertise and systems integration experience to ensure successful technical implementation and operational performance. Core responsibilities include:
Antenna System Technical Leadership: Lead all technical aspects of antenna system validation, installation oversight, and performance optimization to ensure seamless integration with NASA’s communications network
Stakeholder Technical Coordination – Interface with NASA centers, contractors, vendors, and operations teams to resolve technical requirements, provide antenna expertise, and support integration milestones
Performance Validation and Acceptance: Lead antenna system performance testing, validate RF characteristics against specifications, oversee technical acceptance criteria, and support final system validation and operational readiness assessments
Technical Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Identify and assess antenna-related technical risks, develop mitigation strategies, and lead resolution of complex RF and antenna performance issues during installation and integration
Operational Transition Support: Provide technical expertise during handoff to operational teams, including technical training, antenna maintenance procedures, and operational performance optimization guidance
Qualifications
Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar fields.
Years of experience: 15+ years of antenna engineering experience in satellite communications or related fields. Graduate work can contribute toward years of experience.
Work Authorization: Candidate must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident.
Role/Work Schedule
This is a full-time, on-site position in Cleveland, OH.
Preferred Skills
- Expert knowledge of antenna design principles, RF analysis, and electromagnetic modeling tools
- Experience with satellite ground station antenna systems and installation
- Familiarity with capabilities of NASA space communications networks (e.g. Space Relay (SR), Near Space Network (NSN), Direct to Earth (DTE), and Deep Space Network (DSN)) and/or commercial networks.
- Deep understanding of RF systems, link budgets, and antenna pattern analysis
- Experience with antenna measurement techniques and validation procedures
- Knowledge of interference analysis and mitigation strategies
- Familiarity with NASA technical standards and system integration processes
- Experience with ground station equipment integration and commissioning
- Strong technical communication skills for presenting complex antenna engineering concepts to diverse audiences