engineering
Posted YesterdayLead Engineer – RF Engineering
Albuquerque, United StatesHybrid
Responsibilities
- Establish and enforce RF layout rules (transitions, launch geometries, via fences, cavity cutouts, keep-outs) and high-speed constraints (length/phase matching, crosstalk control, reference continuity).
- Perform SI/PI/RF simulation and verification (e.g., ADS, HFSS, SIwave/Sigrity, CST) to predict insertion loss, VSWR/return loss, coupling, eye margins, and PDN impedance.
- Lead schematic capture, ECAD library governance (footprints/3D models), and DRC/DFM sign-off in Altium/Cadence/Mentor.
- Run formal design reviews, drive closure of action items, and maintain design histories, BOMs, and ECOs through PLM.
- Own fab and assembly drawing packages, stack-up notes, controlled impedance requirements, coupons, panelization, and testability features.
- Collaborate with PCB fabs/CMs on builds (Class 3), negotiate tolerances, and resolve issues (mask alignment, plating thickness, impedance yield, lamination strategy).
- Plan and execute board bring-up; define acceptance tests and interface with RF test for S-parameters, noise figure, PAE, ACPR/EVM, and linearity (P1dB/IP3/AM-AM/AM-PM).
- Define, implement, and sustain acceptance tests for CCAs (Rx/Tx/control/power) with clear entry/exit criteria, coverage metrics, and pass/fail limits; maintain golden units and calibration artifacts.
- Architect automated test sequences (Python/LabVIEW/MATLAB or similar) for VNAs, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power meters, oscilloscopes, and RF switch matrices; integrate data logging, serialization, and dashboards; manage version control and CI where appropriate. Required
- Track record leading cross-functional design efforts, running reviews, and mentoring engineers.
Requirements
- Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related engineering field. 5+ years in RF/microwave and mixed-signal PCB development for high-reliability products.
- Technical Depth: Proven expertise in RF board layout for L/S/C/X/Ku/Ka-band front-ends (LNAs, PAs, switches, beamformers, PLL/synth, couplers/splitters).
- Tools: Proficiency with one or more ECAD suites (Altium Designer, Cadence Allegro/OrCAD, Mentor/Xpedition) and analysis tools (Keysight ADS, Ansys HFSS/SIwave, CST).
- Hands-on with RF measurements and analysis: S-parameters, gain/NF, linearity (P1dB/IP3), modulation metrics (EVM/ACLR), phase noise, timing/synchronization, PLL/synth chains, PA/LNA/mixer characterization.
- Proficiency automating instruments and data pipelines (Python and/or LabVIEW; MATLAB a plus) using SCPI/IVI;
- experience with LAN/USB/GPIB control, data historians/MES, and dashboarding (e.g., Power BI/Tableau/SQL).
- Working knowledge of IPC-2221/2223, IPC-6012, IPC-A-600/-610 Class 3, ANSI/ESD S20.20, environmental/EMI test practices (e.g., MIL-STD-810/461 as applicable), calibration traceability,+ and DoD documentation practices.
- Ability to obtain a DoD Top-Secret/SCI clearance. Desired
- Qualifications Master’s degree preferred.
- Experience delivering phased-array TR modules, beamforming IC integrations, or wideband front-ends in production.
- Background in design for ruggedization and environmental screening (thermal cycling, vibe/shock) and reliability analysis (derating, FMEA).
- Familiarity with PLM (e.g., Arena/Windchill), manufacturing with domestic CMs, and rapid RCCA/MRB/CCB processes.
- Certifications (IPC CID/CID+), or equivalent PCB design credentials.
- From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.
Benefits
- Clearance Level TS/SCI The salary range for this role is: $111,500 - $158,025 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.
- benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.
- We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.
Contact
- For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits .
- We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.
Additional details
- Worker Type Regular Job Description We are seeking an RF PCBA Design and Test Engineer for the design, integration, and delivery of high-reliability RF/mixed-signal printed circuit assemblies for phased-array and advanced radar/communications products.
- You will own the PCB lifecycle—from stack-up definition and layout governance through fabrication, assembly, bring-up, release, and test lifecycle for production circuit card assemblies (CCAs) and integrated RF systems.
- On any given day, the selected candidate may be asked to perform the following: Define multilayer, hybrid dielectric RF stack- including impedance tables, via strategy (blind/buried, backdrill, VIPPO), copper weights, and plating/finish (ENIG/ENEPIG) to meet RF loss, isolation, and manufacturability targets.
- Partition boards for RF, mixed-signal, and high-speed digital with attention to shielding, grounding, return paths, and thermal management (coins, thermal vias, heat spreaders).
- Hands-on with hybrid stack-ups, controlled impedance design, backdrill/HDI strategies, and thermal/shielding practices.
- Exposure to mmWave packaging, RF connectors/launches (SMPM/SMP/SEARAY/coax launches), and fixture design for S-parameter/over-the-air test.
- Excellent technical communication, supplier interaction, and concise documentation skills.
- ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”).
- requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction.
- Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements.