We are seeking an experienced, hands-on RF Electronics Technician to support the development, prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting of HF and VHF RF systems and antenna technologies.
This role will involve building and assembling high-power RF test systems, working with engineers and researchers to evaluate unconventional composite antennas, and diagnosing, repairing, and modifying RF power equipment. The ideal candidate will have strong practical experience with RF amplifiers, electronic circuits, antenna systems, and laboratory test equipment.
This is a hands-on technical position suited to someone who enjoys working directly with hardware, building systems from the ground up, and solving complex electronic and RF-related problems. Strong soldering and circuit rework skills are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Work alongside engineers and researchers to understand testing requirements and develop RF test setups.
Build, configure, tune, and troubleshoot HF and VHF RF power systems and antenna assemblies.
Source RF equipment, components, amplifiers, and test instruments for antenna characterization.
Set up, operate, and maintain RF antenna systems and associated testing equipment.
Test and characterize unconventional composite antennas to evaluate their internal and external performance parameters.
Diagnose, repair, modify, and rebuild RF power systems, amplifiers, and electronic circuits.
Perform hands-on soldering, desoldering, component replacement, and circuit-level rework.
Use electronic test equipment, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and RF power amplifiers.
Develop and build RF test systems from operating specifications, often working with limited existing documentation.
Create and maintain technical documentation for established test systems and procedures.
Collaborate with engineering teams to develop testing methods and troubleshoot antenna radiation and performance issues.
Provide regular updates and reports on project progress and technical findings.
Qualifications
Technical degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, RF Technology, or equivalent practical experience.
Extensive hands-on experience building, assembling, configuring, and troubleshooting HF and VHF RF systems.
Strong experience with RF power amplifiers, including tube-based, transistor/FET, through-hole, and surface-mount (SMD) circuits.
Proficiency in soldering, electronic assembly, circuit rework, and component-level troubleshooting.
Experience operating RF and electronic test equipment, particularly spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, multimeters, and signal generators.
Practical knowledge of RF antenna systems, including setup, tuning, testing, and troubleshooting.
Ability to build, modify, and repair electronic circuits and equipment with minimal supervision.
Understanding of electromagnetics, RF circuit behavior, and integration across RF and baseband systems.
Experience programming or interfacing with electronic test equipment and instrumentation software.
Familiarity with Java, C, or other programming languages used for instrumentation and data acquisition.
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced ARRL amateur radio license.
Experience with LabVIEW, NI-DAQ, LabWindows, or NI Instrument Studio.
Experience working with legacy electronics and equipment, particularly pre-1960s circuit designs.
Background working with vacuum tubes, older RF amplifiers, and traditional electronic components.
Experience with thermal emission devices and related electronic circuits.
Experience designing or developing custom RF test systems.
Work Environment
This position is primarily office-based within an electronics laboratory. The company operates in a fast-growing R&D environment with flexible schedules and varied technical responsibilities.
The role offers opportunities to work on experimental technologies, collaborate with experienced engineers and researchers, and grow alongside the organization.
Physical Requirements
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working with laboratory equipment.
Frequent use of computers, electronic instruments, and test equipment.
Some occasional travel may be required.
Ability to perform some physical work and lift equipment, particularly during the initial stages of projects.
Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Life and Disability Insurance
401(k) Savings Plan
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Additional Requirement: U.S. Citizenship is required for this position.
Equal Opportunity Employer.