RF Systems Engineer (Antenna and Ground Stations)

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview

We are seeking an entry-level RF Systems Engineer to support antenna and ground station systems through design, integration, testing, and field deployment. This 100% on-site role is based in Dallas, Texas, or Arlington, Virginia, and requires up to 50% travel. Relevant internship or co-op experience is required, and exposure to Q/V-band or other millimeter-wave systems is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Support RF system analysis for antennas and ground stations, including link budgets, gain-to-noise-temperature ratio (G/T), and effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) calculations.
• Assist with installation, integration, and testing of RF equipment, including antennas, feeds, low-noise amplifiers (LNAs), high-power amplifiers (HPAs), and converters.
• Perform RF measurements using spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters, and record and review the results.
• Prepare test plans, procedures, and reports, and maintain accurate system documentation.
• Coordinate with suppliers regarding deliveries, test results, and open technical issues under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Travel to ground station sites and supplier facilities to support field work and acceptance testing.
• Learn and apply team practices for design, testing, documentation, and configuration management.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Physics, or a related field.

Experience

• One or more relevant internships or co-op assignments involving RF systems, antennas, active or passive RF components, satellites, or ground stations.
• Working knowledge of RF fundamentals, including transmission lines, antennas, link budgets, noise analysis, and gain analysis.
• Hands-on familiarity with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters.
• Ability and willingness to work 100% on-site in Dallas, Texas, or Arlington, Virginia.
• Willingness to relocate to Dallas or Arlington and travel up to 50%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework, projects, or internship experience involving Q/V-band systems, approximately 37 to 52 GHz, or other millimeter-wave systems.
• Experience with antenna measurements or satellite ground terminal projects, including university or student programs.
• Familiarity with MATLAB or other electromagnetic, RF, or link-analysis software.
• Exposure to coordinating with suppliers or vendors during an internship or technical project.
• Knowledge of or familiarity with Ansys HFSS modeling.

Soft Skills

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate with senior engineers, suppliers, field teams, and cross-functional partners.
• Attention to detail when preparing calculations, test records, reports, and configuration documentation.
• Adaptability and readiness to support frequent field travel and hands-on work.

Technology Stack

• RF test equipment: spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters.
• RF and system analysis: link budgets, G/T calculations, EIRP calculations, and noise and gain analysis.
• Simulation and modeling: MATLAB and Ansys HFSS preferred.
• RF hardware: antennas, feeds, LNAs, HPAs, converters, and satellite ground station equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in on-site engineering, laboratory, supplier, and ground station environments.
• Ability to set up, operate, and support the installation of RF test equipment, antennas, cables, fixtures, and related hardware.
• Ability to travel up to 50%, primarily to ground station sites and supplier facilities.
• Ability to follow applicable site, laboratory, environmental, health, and safety procedures.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $90,000 to $97,000.
• Competitive benefits package.
• No relocation allowance is provided.

Benefits & Perks

At AST, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Company-Paid Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Company-Paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Supplemental Benefits
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays
• Career Growth and Development Opportunities

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.