Senior Communications RF Payload Engineer

Work will be performed in secure government environments supporting highly sensitive, mission-critical programs. As a Comm & RF Payload Expert, you will provide senior-level technical leadership in RF communications and payload engineering. You will design, evaluate, and optimize spacecraft communications payloads, coordinate across multi-disciplinary teams, and ensure technical solutions meet mission requirements and program objectives. Provide expert-level RF communications engineering support, including signal processing, system design, and performance evaluation. Lead spacecraft communications and RF payload development efforts, including design, testing, integration, and operational readiness. Apply advanced knowledge of communications technologies to develop, assess, and optimize payload capabilities. Coordinate with systems, mission, and engineering teams to ensure RF payloads meet program requirements and performance objectives. Identify technical risks, recommend mitigation strategies, and support evidence-based decision-making. Prepare and deliver technical briefings, reports, and decision-support documentation for senior leadership. Represent the program office in technical reviews, payload integration meetings, and cross-organizational forums. Expert in radio frequency communications engineering and signal processing. Expert in spacecraft communications and RF payload development. Expert in communications technologies and payload development. Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts to senior leadership. Experience supporting ACAT I/II or highly classified programs. Familiarity with DoD communications standards, RF system integration, and payload development processes. Experience with RF modeling, simulation, test tools, or advanced communications systems platforms. MA/MS degree preferred. Tradeoff: A Bachelor's degree is acceptable with 12+ years of relevant experience in similar programs or positions. The Materiel Leader may waive the MA/MS requirement based on experience and mission needs. Degree should be in electrical engineering, communications, physics, or a related technical field from an accredited institution. Active TOP SECRET clearance with SCI eligibility required. Must be willing to work in SAP environments as needed. Must maintain TS/SCI eligibility and be willing to undergo a Counterintelligence polygraph. U.S. Citizenship is required. Full-time on-site support within secure government facilities (SAPF/SCIF). Approximately 15-20% CONUS travel, with potential for limited OCONUS travel depending on mission needs.