Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead
Bah· enterprise· Defense· Aug 28, 2026 · 2mo ago
Chantilly VA
Hybrid
Full-time
Lead
$99K–$225K
5+ years exp
Job description
Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead The Opportunity:
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission‑critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave, and sof tware‑defined radio systems come together to enable resilient and high‑performance space missions. That expertise becomes essential as you architect and guide the development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads, integrate space‑qualified components across wide frequency ranges, and ensure reliable performance under the stringent constraints of the space environment.
At Booz Allen, you’ll apply your RF engineering experience to shape RF mission payloads designed to dynamically adapt to support custom waveforms. Our team develops mission‑focused space technologies, from RF architecture and link analysis to payload integration, bus interfaces, and end‑to‑end system modeling. That s why we need you, an experienced RF payload leader who can drive RF subsystem architecture, guide antenna and front‑end development, and collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to build a payload that meets demanding standards and mission assurance requirements for space vehicles.
On our team, you’ll lead technical efforts from concept through flight‑ready implementation, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR‑based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing. Your work will directly impact the mission by enabling adaptable RF mission applications and reliable performance across evolving scenarios. You’ll also mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission’s technical roadmap. Take on this challenge in the rapidly evolving space sector as we advance resilient and scalable RF space payload capabilities that support mission critical objectives.
Join us. The world can’t wait.
You Have:
5 years of experience with RF or microwave circuit design, including amplifiers, mixers, oscillators, filters, and antennas and met rics such as SNR and NF
Experience designing custom RF hardware or integrating COTS RF hardware through simulation, fabrication, testing, and optimization stages of product development for Space Payloads
Experience with advanced RF or microwave design techniques such as electromagnetic ( EM ) simulation
Experience with RF measurement and testing tools, including spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators
Experience with design and RF simulation tools such as AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, or FEKO
Knowledge of AS9100 standards, mission assurance practices, and space hardware workmanship guidelines
Ability to troubleshoot and debug RF hardware
Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines and work in a team environment
Top Secret clearance
Bachelor s degree
Nice If You Have:
Experience with national security satellite systems for SIGINT or GEOINT
Experience leading and managing small to medium-sized engineering teams
Experience with MATLAB, Python, and GitHub for signal processing applications, sof tware, and algorithm development
Experience with descriptive MBSE tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture
Knowledge of lab automation and scripting to streamline testing processes and data acquisition
Possession of excellent verbal and written communication skills
TS / SCI clearance
Bachelor s degree in Engineering preferred; Master s degree in Engineering a plus
Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Top Secret clearance is required.
Compensation
At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen’s benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.
Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $99,000.00 to $225,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen’s total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Identity Statement
As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided .
Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.
Remote : If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
Hybrid : If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
Onsite : If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.
Application prep
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Benefits
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Professional Development