Job Description

Senior Staff RF Electrical Engineer at Saab summary:

The Senior Staff RF Electrical Engineer specializes in rapid evaluation, troubleshooting, and optimization of complex antenna systems, addressing issues such as mutual coupling and radiation performance under aggressive timelines. The role involves bridging simulation, measurement, and practical implementation to ensure antenna designs meet stringent requirements, including hands-on measurement and mentoring junior engineers. This position supports defense and communications programs with a focus on high-impact, quick-response solutions.

We are seeking a Level 4 Senior Staff RF Antenna Engineer with deep expertise in antenna systems, element/mutual coupling, and free-space radiation performance—and the proven ability to rapidly evaluate, troubleshoot, and optimize existing antenna designs. This is a high-impact, fast-response role supporting programs where performance shortfalls must be diagnosed and corrected on aggressive timelines. You will bridge simulation, measurement, and practical implementation to deliver solutions that work—quickly and reliably.

Key Responsibilities:

• Rapidly assess existing antenna and array designs for performance gaps against requirements.

• Diagnose and resolve issues related to mutual coupling, beam distortion, impedance mismatch, and bandwidth limitations.

• Recommend and implement design modifications for immediate performance improvements.

• Perform accelerated free-space radiation pattern measurements and compare results against simulations.

• Run high-fidelity EM simulations (HFSS, CST, FEKO, or similar) under compressed schedules for fast validation.

• Evaluate antenna integration into host platforms for mechanical, thermal, and electrical compatibility.

• Support urgent production and field troubleshooting, including on-site technical interventions when required.

• Collaborate with RF systems engineers to ensure antenna performance aligns with system-level budgets and phase stability.

• Produce clear, actionable evaluation reports for program stakeholders, often under short deadlines.

• Mentor junior engineers in rapid diagnostic and problem-solving methods.

Compensation Range: $112,900 - $146,800

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The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).

• 10+ years of antenna design and/or evaluation experience in radar, communications, or EW systems.

• Expert understanding of antenna theory, EM propagation, polarization, and impedance matching.

• Proven ability to mitigate mutual coupling in dense or phased-array configurations.

• Experience delivering high-quality antenna evaluations and solutions under aggressive timelines.

• Proficiency with EM simulation tools such as HFSS, CST, FEKO, GRASP.

• Hands-on experience with antenna measurement in both anechoic chambers and open-air ranges.

• US Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with low-observable and conformal antenna designs.

• Familiarity with wideband, multiband, and frequency-agile antenna systems.

• Exceptional problem-solving and communication skills for high-pressure, time-sensitive projects.

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

• Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

• 401(k) with employer contributions

• Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

• Wellness and employee assistance resources

• Employee stock purchase opportunities

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 19,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer, more sustainable and more equitable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in eight U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.

Keywords:

RF antenna engineer, antenna design, electromagnetic simulation, mutual coupling, beam distortion, impedance matching, HFSS, CST, phased-array antenna, defense engineering

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