RF Systems Engineer (Ground)
AnySignal
Software Engineering
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Location
Los Angeles, CA
Employment Type
Full time
Location Type
On-site
Department
Engineering
Company
AnySignal is developing the next generation of RF products and services for some of the most demanding space and defense missions. We’re building a flexible, high-performance platform that’s easy to deploy, monitor, and scale — enabling customers to bring advanced radio technologies to life faster than ever before.
About the Role
We're looking for a hands-on RF Systems Engineer to own the RF performance of our satellite communications terminal hardware. This is not a PCB design role - it's a systems role. You're the person who figures out why the link isn't closing, what's eating the noise figure, and how to squeeze every dB out of the system. You'll characterize antenna performance, build BOMs for RF front-end hardware, integrate modems, and develop the test procedures that make our terminals reliable in the field.
Responsibilities
Characterize and optimize RF system performance for satellite communications terminals: G/T, noise temperature, EIRP, link margin, noise figure across S-band, X-band, and beyond
Define, select, and manage RF front-end components and BOMs for terminal hardware — LNAs, SSPAs, feeds, diplexers, cables, connectors, and waveguide components
Troubleshoot RF system issues across the full receive and transmit chain, from the antenna feed through to the modem
Drive integration of next-generation modem hardware into RF terminal systems; validate waveform and link performance
Work with antenna and mechanical teams to ensure RF system requirements are met through pointing accuracy, feed alignment, etc.
Conduct RF system acceptance testing and characterization using VNAs, spectrum analyzers, noise figure analyzers, and power meters
Develop and maintain link budget models and RF cascade analyses; identify margin risks before they become field problems
Write test procedures, characterization reports, and RF performance documentation
Required Skills
Hands-on experience with satellite communications terminal RF systems
Strong command of system-level RF metrics: G/T, noise temperature, EIRP, link budget, noise figure, fade margin
Proficient with RF bench instrumentation: VNA, spectrum analyzer, noise figure analyzer, power meter, signal generator
Experience selecting and sourcing LNAs, SSPAs, filters, diplexers, and coaxial/waveguide components for satcom applications
Demonstrated ability to own a component BOM — from specification through procurement
Some Working knowledge of DVB-S2 or other satellite waveforms and modem-level integration
Field instinct: you're comfortable on a rooftop or a remote site, troubleshooting with limited resources
Desired Skills
Experience with parabolic dish antenna systems: feed installation and polarization alignment
Familiarity with antenna control systems (ACUs, Az/El pedestals, drive electronics)
Link budget modeling across LEO, MEO, and GEO orbit scenarios
Experience commissioning or troubleshooting RF systems at remote or field sites
Familiarity with low-noise amplifier noise performance characterization
In order to comply with the space technology export rules of the U.S. Government, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), it is necessary to be a U.S. citizen, a lawful U.S. permanent resident, a protected individual as specified by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or possess eligibility to secure the necessary authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. For additional information on ITAR, please seek further details.
AnySignal values and fosters an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees and customers feel respected, supported and able to participate. We welcome applications from: women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, visible minorities, veterans, people who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and others who may contribute to diversification in our environment.
Should you have a need for accommodation, AnySignal will endeavor to meet your accommodation needs. At any stage of the recruitment and selection process you may make your needs for accommodation known through contacting our team, in confidence, by email to: careers@anysignal.com. We aim to provide equal access to all applicants with disabilities, please do not hesitate to contact us about accommodations.