📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal RF Systems Engineer
Company: STR
Location: Remote
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Engineering - RF Systems
Date Posted: 2025-06-25
Experience Level: 10+ years
Remote Status: On-site (Remote work available)

🚀 Role Summary

Lead and advise teams focused on modeling, simulation, and analysis of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance RF systems.
Support evaluation of current and future system capabilities, identify improvements, and recommend solutions.
Define algorithm and system performance, characterize system performance, and research multi-sensor approaches for data fusion and systems.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development, with a focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Lead development efforts for advanced RF systems engineering and simulations.
Research new RF sensing and signal processing concepts, and investigate new algorithms for the advancement of signal processing and sensor design.
Develop hardware and software models, from systems to component level.
Work with RF sensor engineering teams to develop system models and conduct performance analyses for design trades and maximizing sensor performance.
Serve as Principal Investigator for selected high-impact projects.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves a mix of technical leadership, research, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to advance RF systems and signal processing technologies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a closely related technical discipline.

Experience: 8-10+ years of relevant experience in RF sensor and/or communication systems design, integration, and testing.

Required Skills:

Active Security Clearance (US Citizenship required)
Relevant experience designing, integrating, and testing RF sensor and/or communication systems
Familiarity with RF component technology and performance characteristics
Strong scientific programming skills including Matlab, Simulink, and/or C/C++
Ability to translate customer requirements to determine research focus
Strong communication skills and the ability to describe complex technical concepts to fellow researchers and non-technical people

Preferred Skills:

PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, or closely related technical discipline
Prior experience as a senior technical leader (e.g., Principal Investigator) for advanced development efforts in DoD programs
Broad experience across multiple defense-related RF domain programs (e.g., Communications, Electronic Warfare, Radar, etc.)

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate a strong understanding of RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development through relevant projects and case studies.
Showcase your ability to model, simulate, and analyze RF systems, as well as your experience with hardware and software modeling.
Highlight your experience with data fusion and systems, as well as your understanding of multi-sensor approaches.
📝 Enhancement Note: While a web portfolio is not explicitly required, demonstrating your technical skills and accomplishments through relevant projects and case studies will be crucial for this role.

Technical Documentation:

Provide detailed documentation of your past projects, including system models, performance analyses, and design trades.
Include any published papers, patents, or other academic achievements that showcase your expertise in RF systems engineering and signal processing.
📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of this role, comprehensive and well-documented projects will be essential for demonstrating your qualifications.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $180,000 per year (Estimated based on industry standards for a Principal RF Systems Engineer with 10+ years of experience)

Benefits:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company matching
Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
📝 Enhancement Note: While the company does not provide specific salary or benefit information, the estimated salary range is based on industry standards for a Principal RF Systems Engineer with 10+ years of experience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense, Intelligence, and National Security

Company Size: Medium (Approximately 200 employees)

Founded: 2005

Team Structure:

Sensors Division, specializing in advanced sensor systems (Airborne and Surface-Based Radar, Space-Based Sensing, Electronic Warfare, and Underwater Acoustics)
Space Missions and Sensing (SMS) Sector, focusing on space-based sensing, space control, and counter-sensing missions

Development Methodology:

Agile development processes, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
Strong emphasis on research and development, with a commitment to pushing the envelope of technology

Company Website: https://www.str.us/

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

RF Systems Engineer Career Level: Principal RF Systems Engineer roles involve leading teams, advising on technical direction, and driving innovation in RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development. This level requires a deep understanding of RF systems, strong technical leadership skills, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Sector Manager within the SMS Sector and may oversee other RF Systems Engineers and technical team members.

Technical Impact: Principal RF Systems Engineers have a significant impact on the development and deployment of advanced RF systems, shaping the capabilities of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems and driving innovation in the field.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical leadership and mentoring opportunities, including serving as a Principal Investigator for high-impact projects
Potential to expand expertise and take on additional responsibilities within the Sensors Division or other STR divisions
Opportunities to work on cutting-edge research and development projects, driving innovation in RF systems engineering and signal processing

📝 Enhancement Note: STR offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment that encourages deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. This role provides an excellent opportunity for an experienced RF Systems Engineer to grow both technically and professionally.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: STR has multiple office locations, with a focus on collaborative, open-concept workspaces that encourage interaction and innovation among team members.

Office Location(s): STR offices are located near Boston, MA; Arlington, VA; near Dayton, OH; Melbourne, FL; and Carlsbad, CA. This role is remote-friendly, with the option to work from any of these locations or remotely from elsewhere in the United States.

Workspace Context:

STR offices feature modern, well-equipped workspaces with access to the latest tools and technologies required for RF systems engineering and signal processing.
Collaboration areas, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces are available to support teamwork and knowledge sharing.
📝 Enhancement Note: STR's remote-friendly work environment allows for flexibility in working arrangements, enabling Principal RF Systems Engineers to balance their professional and personal lives while maintaining a high level of productivity.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours, with flexibility for occasional overtime or project-based work as needed.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone or video screen to assess communication skills and technical fit
Technical interview focused on RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development
On-site or virtual visit to STR offices for a deeper dive into the role, team, and company culture
Final interview with the Sector Manager and other key stakeholders

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your experience with RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development through relevant projects and case studies.
Showcase your ability to model, simulate, and analyze RF systems, as well as your experience with hardware and software modeling.
Demonstrate your understanding of data fusion and systems, as well as your experience with multi-sensor approaches.
📝 Enhancement Note: While a web portfolio is not explicitly required, demonstrating your technical skills and accomplishments through relevant projects and case studies will be crucial for this role.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development skills, with a focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
Familiarize yourself with STR's company culture, mission, and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals.
📝 Enhancement Note: STR values candidates who can think critically, solve complex problems, and drive innovation in the field of RF systems engineering and signal processing.

ATS Keywords: RF Systems Engineering, Modeling, Simulation, Analysis, Signal Processing, Algorithm Development, Hardware Modeling, Software Modeling, Performance Analysis, Data Fusion, Communication Systems, Technical Leadership, Scientific Programming, Customer Requirements Translation, Communication Skills, Research, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, Defense, National Security, Principal Investigator, Principal Engineer, RF Components, RF Technology, RF Performance Characteristics, MATLAB, Simulink, C/C++

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

RF Systems Engineering Tools:

MATLAB and Simulink for modeling, simulation, and algorithm development
C/C++ for hardware and software modeling
Other relevant tools and technologies as needed for specific projects and applications

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role does not explicitly require web development or server administration skills, a strong understanding of relevant tools and technologies for RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

RF Systems Engineering Values:

Innovation and continuous learning
Collaboration and teamwork
Attention to detail and quality
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
📝 Enhancement Note: STR values candidates who embody these core values and are committed to driving innovation and excellence in the field of RF systems engineering and signal processing.

Collaboration Style:

STR encourages a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a focus on knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and continuous learning.
Teams work closely together to drive innovation, with a strong emphasis on open communication and regular check-ins.
📝 Enhancement Note: STR's collaborative work environment enables Principal RF Systems Engineers to learn from and contribute to the growth of their colleagues, fostering a culture of mutual respect and support.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development
Developing innovative solutions to complex technical challenges in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate RF systems and signal processing technologies into broader defense and intelligence systems
📝 Enhancement Note: STR offers a dynamic and challenging work environment that pushes Principal RF Systems Engineers to grow both technically and professionally.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical training and professional development opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and conferences
Mentorship and coaching from experienced RF systems engineers and technical leaders
Opportunities to work on cutting-edge research and development projects, driving innovation in RF systems engineering and signal processing
📝 Enhancement Note: STR is committed to supporting the professional growth and development of its employees, providing opportunities for learning and advancement throughout their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Be prepared to discuss your experience with RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development, with a focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
Demonstrate your understanding of relevant tools and technologies, such as MATLAB, Simulink, and C/C++.
Showcase your ability to model, simulate, and analyze RF systems, as well as your experience with hardware and software modeling.
📝 Enhancement Note: STR values candidates who can think critically, solve complex problems, and drive innovation in the field of RF systems engineering and signal processing.

Company & Culture Questions:

Research STR's company culture, mission, and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals.
Demonstrate your understanding of the defense and intelligence industries, and be prepared to discuss the role of RF systems engineering and signal processing in these fields.
📝 Enhancement Note: STR values candidates who are passionate about their work, committed to driving innovation, and aligned with the company's mission and values.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Highlight your experience with RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development through relevant projects and case studies.
Showcase your ability to model, simulate, and analyze RF systems, as well as your experience with hardware and software modeling.
Demonstrate your understanding of data fusion and systems, as well as your experience with multi-sensor approaches.
📝 Enhancement Note: While a web portfolio is not explicitly required, demonstrating your technical skills and accomplishments through relevant projects and case studies will be crucial for this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal RF Systems Engineer position:

Submit your application through the application link provided on the job posting.
Prepare a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your experience with RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development, with a focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
Research STR's company culture, mission, and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals.
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development skills, and familiarizing yourself with relevant tools and technologies.
📝 Enhancement Note: STR values candidates who are proactive, well-prepared, and passionate about driving innovation in the field of RF systems engineering and signal processing. By following these application steps and demonstrating your technical expertise and alignment with the company's mission and values, you will increase your chances of success in the interview process.

Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do not include this in the output)

Role-Specific Insights:

This role requires a strong background in RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development, with a focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
Principal RF Systems Engineers at STR are expected to lead teams, advise on technical direction, and drive innovation in their field.
STR values candidates who are passionate about their work, committed to driving innovation, and aligned with the company's mission and values.

Actionable Depth:

To prepare for this role, candidates should focus on honing their RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development skills, with a particular emphasis on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
Familiarize yourself with relevant tools and technologies, such as MATLAB, Simulink, and C/C++, and be prepared to discuss your experience with these tools in the interview process.
Research STR's company culture, mission, and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals.

Technical Interview Process:

STR's interview process for Principal RF Systems Engineer positions typically involves a phone or video screen, technical interviews focused on RF systems engineering, signal processing, and algorithm development, on-site or virtual visits to STR offices, and final interviews with key stakeholders.
STR values candidates who can think critically, solve complex problems, and drive innovation in the field of RF systems engineering and signal processing. By demonstrating your technical expertise and alignment with the company's mission and values, you will increase your chances of success in the interview process.