Entry Level RF Engineer, Communications Systems - Draper
Overview
You will design and develop RF and communications systems for national security and space exploration, owning system analysis from concept to validation. Draper's 2,000+ engineers work across defense, space, and biomedical programs in Cambridge, MA. You'll join a multidisciplinary team of RF engineers, FPGA developers, and digital signal processing experts tackling challenges where lives depend on solutions. This role offers hands-on RFSoC, beamforming, and SDR experience within a nonprofit R&D environment.
What You'll Do8
- 1Model RF and communications systems, simulating performance in tools like MATLAB and ADS.
- 2Validate system behavior with spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators.
- 3Debug RF signal chain issues troubleshooting RFSoC, FPGA, and beamforming hardware.
- 4Collaborate with software, hardware, and materials teams to integrate RF systems.
- 5Document test procedures and results in technical reports.
- 6Present findings to project leadership and team members.
- 7Drive RF architecture trade studies during the first 90 days.
- 8Support phased-array and software-defined radio (SDR) development.
Requirements9
- 10-3 years experience in RF or communications engineering.
- 2Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field.
- 3Proficiency in RF system analysis and architecture design.
- 4Hands-on experience with RFSoC platforms.
- 5Experience with FPGA development and digital signal processing.
- 6Familiarity with beamforming integrated circuits and phased-array systems.
- 7Working knowledge of software-defined radio (SDR) and wireless protocols.
- 8Strong troubleshooting skills using lab instrumentation.
- 9Ability to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance.
Salary Insight
$62 - $140k per year
Location
Required Skills
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