2026 RF / Microwave Engineer

About this role

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring an RF/Microwave Engineer for the Communication Electronics Department (CED) in the Mission Payloads Division (MPD).  This position is full-time, onsite at our office in El Segundo, CA.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.   With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

Job Summary Selected candidate will own projects across the lifecycle of analysis, design, and measurement that will transform the next generation of RF and microwave space systems.

Why We're Different: • Ownership.  Not just "contributor to slide 47 of a PowerPoint." You'll lead projects that shape and define the future of space.

• Flexibility that respects your capabilities.  Choose your approach; experiment and iterate. We trust you to solve hard problems your way.

• Collegial, not corporate.  Think academic research lab meets mission-critical engineering. We collaborate across disciplines, debate and share ideas, and foster an open and curious culture.

• Two-way learning.  We'll invest in your growth—and we genuinely want to learn from your expertise.

What You’ll Be Doing • Shape the future of space hardware  – Provide guidance on radar, sensor, and communication payloads that contractors build for critical government missions

• Master the art of measurement – Employ microwave measurement techniques and operate specialized microwave test equipment

• Build what doesn't exist yet  – Create RF payload prototypes and emulators that bridge the gap between theory and orbit

• Model complex systems  – Generate performance budgets and run circuit simulations (ADS, Microwave Office) that predict how systems will behave before a single component is soldered

• Become an anomaly detective – When hardware misbehaves (and it will), you'll be the one who combines analytical rigor with hands-on experimentation to find out why

• Collaborate in real-time and space  – Work side-by-side with talented engineers and technicians to solve the hardest problems in the space enterprise

What You Need to be Successful: • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline, pursuing or conferred within 12 months from an accredited college or university

• 0-1 year of industry experience

• Experience or course work in  any  of the following microwave specialty areas:  • Analog/RF/Microwave circuits and systems

• Electromagnetics

• Communication Systems Engineering

• Experience using any of the following tools/software: Microwave Office, ADS, Cadence, HFSS, CST, Sonnet, AXIEM, or similar software

• Ability to work with Python, MATLAB, or Excel for instrumentation automation and/or data and signals analysis

• Hands-on experience with assembling, tuning, testing and/or troubleshooting electronics in a laboratory environment

• Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving, an ability to rapidly grasp new concepts, and excellent written/verbal communication skills

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS//SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain this level of security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out • Advanced degree

• Active security clearance

• Experience in a laboratory environment working with microwave circuits or components and associated test equipment (network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and other relevant equipment)

• Experience providing deliverables, briefing management and customers, and/or publishing academic research

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max) $90,000.00 - $140,000.00

Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: • Operate Strategically • Lead Change    • Engage with Impact    • Foster Innovation    • Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include: • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of

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