The Aerospace Corporation · El Segundo, CA

RF/Microwave Engineer - Senior Member of Technical Staff at The Aerospace Corporation — El Segundo, CA

Full-timeEl Segundo, CA$110,400–$165,500/yearPosted 2026-07-29Apply on Workday

Full job description

The Communication Electronics Department is looking for an RF/Microwave Engineer who wants their work to matter – someone ready to 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.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Shape the future of space hardware – Provide expert guidance on radar, sensor, and communication payloads that contractors build for critical government missions
  • Master the art of measurement – employ advanced 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 – Senior Member of the Technical Staff

Minimum Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline
  • Five or more years related (including post graduate studies) technical experience in any of the following microwave engineering areas
  • Modeling of microwave and/or millimeter-wave circuits using ADS OR Microwave Office
  • Relevant experience with modeling or measuring performance of radar, sensor, and/or communication payload hardware and systems
  • Modeling of microwave semiconductors or plasma devices
  • Experience with manual and remote operation of network analyzers, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators and other instrumentation
  • Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving, handling ambiguity and imperfectly defined problems, an ability to rapidly grasp new concepts, and excellent written/verbal communication skills
  • Ability to engage others and influence technical decisions.
  • Willing to travel domestically approximately 10%
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI US security clearance, which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Engineering Specialist:

  • Seven or more years of relevant experience with communication or radar payload hardware
  • Mentoring of junior personnel
  • Technical team leadership

How You Can Stand Out

  • Current SECRET or TS/SCI clearances
  • Experience operating high-power microwave amplifiers
  • Experience with applying AI/ML to microwave design problems

(Min - Max)

$110,400.00 - $165,500.00

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

  • 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 service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

Equal Opportunity Commitment