At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead RF test development for innovative space technology and design scalable test solutions.
- Company: Join a pioneering company at the forefront of space infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health benefits, and potential relocation support.
- Other info: Collaborate with global teams and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-stakes space missions with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in RF testing, Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, and strong troubleshooting skills.
In this role you lead RF test development for active phased array payloads used in space infrastructure. You'll define how array performance is characterized and validated across engineering and flight builds, driving repeatable validation strategies. You work at the intersection of RF design, systems engineering, and test to ensure production-scale array performance under environmental stress. You'll design scalable test solutions and collaborate with Europe and US teams to translate requirements into test plans, enabling reliable, high-impact space missions.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain RF test architectures for active phased arrays
- Define validation strategies for beamforming, calibration, and performance at unit and integrated-payload levels
- Design and implement test solutions for radiation pattern measurement, conducted RF validation, and OTA characterization
- Develop Python-based automation to control units under test, instrumentation, and data systems
- Analyze RF data for gain, linearity, noise, phase coherence, and beam steering accuracy
- Drive root-cause analysis of RF performance issues and provide design feedback to improve yield and robustness
- Support environmental and qualification testing from an RF perspective
- Collaborate with mechanical, digital, firmware, and manufacturing teams to enable production scalability
- Present performance results and trade studies to engineering leadership
- Operate as a hands-on engineer moving between architecture, debugging, and data-driven analysis
Requirements:
- 8+ years of RF test and validation experience
- Experience with space-based or high-reliability phased array systems
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
- Deep understanding of antenna arrays, beamforming, and RF signal chains
- Proficiency with RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, network analyzers)
- Experience with over-the-air testing (near-field and far-field)
- Proven ability to architect automated RF test systems
- Ability to troubleshoot complex RF systems and drive root cause resolution
- U.S. citizenship
- Ability to travel up to 10%
Benefits:
- Additional cash or stock incentives
- Health and wellness benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Competitive compensation range
- Potential relocation support
- Paid time off and leave policies
Senior Phased Array Test Engineer employer: Viasat, Inc.
Viasat is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets collaboration. As part of the Space Infrastructure team, you'll engage in meaningful projects that contribute to mission success while enjoying comprehensive benefits, competitive pay, and a strong focus on holistic health and wellness. With ample opportunities for professional growth and development, Viasat fosters a culture that values teamwork and encourages employees to thrive in their careers.
