RF Systems Modeling & Simulation Engineering Lead - Space RF Systems

We are seeking a RF Systems Modeling & Simulation Lead to architect, develop, and govern high-fidelity models of phased-array sensors and RF communications/radar systems. You will own the modeling toolchain-from concept and requirements flow-down through algorithm prototyping, performance trades, and verification/correlation with test-while working in a cross-functional team (Systems, RF/EE, DSP/FPGA, Test, SW, and Manufacturing) to meet performance, cost, schedule, and quality objectives.

On any given day, the selected candidate may be asked to perform the following:

• System Architecture & Requirements Modeling
• Translate mission/use-case needs into system-level models capturing end-to-end RF chains (antennas, beamforming, frequency conversion, timing, waveform generation, signal processing). Define and maintain performance budgets (SNR/CNR, G/T, NF, dynamic range, EIRP, EVM/ACLR, phase noise, latency).
• Model phased-array architectures (tiles/TRMs, calibration, mutual coupling, quantization, amplitude/phase errors). Prototype and evaluate beamforming and adaptive processing (digital/analog/hybrid), calibration methods, and radar/communications waveforms
• Develop RF propagation and environment models (free-space, multipath/urban, foliage/sea, atmospheric/ducting, RCS/scene models) and integrate with clutter/interference/jamming emitters. Perform Monte Carlo and mission-level assessments across operational CONOPS.
• Execute link and detection analyses, tolerance studies, and design trades to drive key architecture choices (band selection, aperture size, T/R power, bandwidth, ADC/DAC resolution, clocking). Produce clear trade matrices and recommendations.
• Own the modeling toolchain (MATLAB/Simulink, Python/NumPy/SciPy; SystemVue as applicable). Build reusable libraries, unit tests and documentation.
• Partner with the Test team to plan and execute model-to-measurement correlation across benchtop, chamber, and OTA/range activities; jointly define validation datasets, acceptance criteria, and residual-error metrics; and drive iterative updates to both models and test methods to close prediction-to-measurement gaps.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to modeling/DSP engineers. Drive cross-functional reviews, communicate results to stakeholders, and coordinate with suppliers/partners for tools and datasets.
• Author modeling plans, methods, validation reports, and user guides; support technical volumes and customer briefings. Ensure alignment with program standards and DoD documentation practices.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, systems engineering, applied physics, or related engineering field.
• 5+ years in RF systems modeling/analysis for radar, EW/ESM, or communications systems.
• Strong understanding of RF system fundamentals (noise figure, dynamic range, linearity/P1dB/IP3, phase noise, spurs), phased array/beamforming, DSP for comms/radar (filtering, FFTs, detection/estimation, synchronization), and calibration/error budgets.
• Proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink and/or Python (NumPy/SciPy), scripting/automation, and data visualization. Experience with EM/array tools or co-simulation. (HFSS/CST/ADS/SIwave) and channel/scene tools a plus.
• Experience driving V&V, GR&R/MSA for model correlation, and disciplined software practices (Git, code reviews, CI, unit/integration tests).
• Familiarity with MBSE/SysML and requirements tools (e.g., DOORS/Polarion) preferred.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. DoD Top-Secret/SCI clearance.

Desired Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in engineering preferred.
• Hands-on phased-array modeling (tile/array calibration, beamforming networks, mutual coupling) and OTA/channel emulation experience.
• Background in digital-twin development and HIL/SIL with SDRs (e.g., USRP/RFSoC) and channel emulators.
• Mission-level modeling for radar (Pd/Pfa, CFAR, STAP/MIMO) or comms (capacity, link adaptation, coexistence, spectral masks).
• Exposure to environmental/EMI considerations and how they perturb modeled performance.
• Certifications or coursework in MBSE/SysML, DSP, or RF systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional analyses, run reviews (SRR/PDR/CDR), mentor engineers, and present complex results succinctly to technical and executive audiences.
• Excellent technical writing and visualization skills; ability to produce clear trade studies, validation reports, and decision briefs.
• Active DoD security clearance.

Salary Range: $115,000 - $150,000
The BlueHalo pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Determination of official compensation or salary relies on several factors including, but not limited to, level of position, job responsibilities, geographic location, scope of relevant work experience, educational background, certifications, contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements, alignment with local internal equity as well as alignment with market data.

Our compensation package also includes components designed to support employees' total well-being, which should be considered when evaluating our competitive benefits package. These benefits include health insurance, life insurance, disability, company holiday and paid time off, parental leave, 401(k) company match and contributions, professional development/training reimbursements, and other work/life programs.