RF/EW R&D Engineer

SRC, Inc.
is currently seeking a Mid-Level Radio Frequency (RF) / Electronic Warfare (EW) Research & Development Engineer to support the design, integration, testing, sustainment, and advancement of next-generation RF and EW simulation capabilities. This role is heavily focused on research and development activities within a dynamic laboratory environment supporting prototype development, system integration, experimental testing, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) operations, and user demonstrations.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with strong RF fundamentals, laboratory integration experience, and the ability to rapidly troubleshoot and adapt within fast-paced R&D efforts. This position requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop, evaluate, and improve advanced electromagnetic environment simulation systems and supporting RF infrastructure.

What You'll Do

1. Research & Development Activities

RF / EW System Development
Support research and development of advanced RF, radar, and EW simulation capabilities
Assist with integration, configuration, and evaluation of prototype hardware, RF subsystems, and experimental technologies
Support development and execution of engineering assessment plans for new capabilities, hardware modifications, and software updates
Participate in system characterization, performance analysis, and technical investigations to support engineering decisions
Prototype Integration & Experimental Testing
Configure and support experimental laboratory test environments for engineering development efforts
Integrate Systems Under Test (SUT) with RF simulators, HITL systems, and supporting laboratory infrastructure
Support iterative hardware and software testing, rapid troubleshooting, and implementation of engineering changes during development cycles
Collect, document, and analyze test data to support engineering evaluations and technical reporting
Technology Evaluation & Modernization
Evaluate emerging RF and EW technologies to support future laboratory and simulation capabilities
Assist with development of upgrade roadmaps and modernization recommendations for aging laboratory systems and infrastructure
Support proof-of-concept demonstrations and advanced technology integration activities

2. Laboratory Operations & HITL Support

HITL & Lab Operations
Configure and maintain HITL laboratory environments supporting R&D and engineering integration efforts
Support daily laboratory operations including RF routing, equipment configuration, system verification, and troubleshooting
Ensure laboratory systems are operational and available to support engineering development schedules and user demonstrations
Demonstration Support
Support Lead Engineers during internal and external technical demonstrations and evaluation events
Assist with demonstration setup, system checkout, issue resolution, and operational support during live events

3. Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Sustainment

RF System Troubleshooting
Troubleshoot complex RF and electronic systems to the subsystem and component level
Utilize schematics, block diagrams, and technical documentation to isolate and resolve hardware and integration issues
Repair or replace faulty cables, RF components, circuit cards, and supporting subsystems
Preventive Maintenance & Calibration
Perform preventive maintenance and sustainment activities on RF simulators, EW systems, and laboratory infrastructure
Support calibration and verification activities for RF test equipment including:
Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)
Spectrum Analyzers
Signal Generators
Oscilloscopes
Power Meters

4. Process Improvement & Technical Documentation

QA/QC & Engineering Documentation
Develop and maintain laboratory procedures, test configurations, QA/QC checklists, and engineering documentation.
Maintain logs of system performance, failures, troubleshooting activities, and corrective actions.
Support trend analysis and reliability improvement initiatives including Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) tracking.
Sustainment & Upgrade Planning
Assist with long-term sustainment planning including inventory management, spare tracking, maintenance scheduling, and equipment replacement planning.
Provide technical recommendations for laboratory improvements and system upgrades.
What You'll Bring
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering
An active Secret clearance is required
Minimum 4 years of experience supporting:
RF/EW research and development
Engineering laboratories
HITL integration environments
Prototype development and system integration activities
Specialized System Experience
Experience operating, integrating, or maintaining following RF simulator systems:
Dynamic Electromagnetic Environment Simulator (DEES)
mmWave
MicroDEES
VLB DEES
DEF DEES
PhaseDEES
RF Test Equipment Proficiency
Hands-on experience operating and interpreting measurements from:
Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)
Spectrum Analyzers
Signal Generators
Oscilloscopes
Power Meters
Troubleshooting & Integration Skills
Ability to read and interpret:
Electrical schematics
RF block diagrams
Wiring diagrams
Engineering documentation
Proven ability to troubleshoot integrated RF systems and laboratory hardware
Collaboration & Communication
Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to clearly document test procedures, technical findings, and troubleshooting activities
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including using Pivot tables in excel, Cost Point & COBRA experience a plus
Must be able to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-moving environment
Ways to Stand Out
Experience supporting defense or aerospace R&D programs
Experience supporting user demonstrations, technical evaluations, or government test events
Familiarity with laboratory asset management and calibration tracking systems
Experience supporting advanced RF, EW, radar, or electromagnetic environment simulation technologies
What Sets Us Apart?
SRC, Inc., a not-for-profit research and development company, combines information, science, technology and ingenuity to solve “impossible” problems in the areas of defense, environment and intelligence. Across our family of companies, we apply bright minds, fresh thinking and relentless determination to deliver innovative products and services that are redefining possible®. When you join our team, you’ll be a part of something truly meaningful — helping to keep America and its allies safe and strong. You’ll collaborate with more than 1,400 engineers, scientists and professionals — with 20 percent of those employees having served in the military — in a highly innovative, inclusive and equitable work environment. You’ll receive a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that includes four or more weeks of paid time off to start, 10 percent employer contribution toward retirement, and 100 percent tuition support.
Total compensation for this role is market competitive. The anticipated salary range for this position based out of Dayton, OH is estimated at $95,000 to $115,000 annually. The actual salary will vary based on applicant’s experience, skills, and abilities, geographic location as well as other business and organizational needs. SRC offers competitive benefit options, for more details please visit our website.
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