RF Modeling and Simulation Engineer – Multiple Levels

AeroVironment

. Develop RF system, antenna, and phased-array models covering propagation, element behavior, beamforming, RF distribution, amplification, frequency conversion, digitization, and system interfaces .

Posted 11/4/2026full-timeUnited StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $75,000 - $160,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in RF system development, modeling, and simulation, with a strong focus on phased-array architecture and beamforming. Proficient in using advanced tools like MATLAB and HFSS for analysis, design decisions, and technical recommendations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

RF System DevelopmentPhased-Array ArchitectureAdvanced MATLAB ExperienceElectromagnetic SimulationTechnical Leadership

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

RF ModelingBeamformingElectromagnetic SimulationSensitivity AnalysisDesign Trade StudiesLink Budget AnalysisStatistical AnalysisUncertainty QuantificationCalibration TechniquesPerformance Metrics

Soft Skills

Analytical SkillsTechnical WritingCommunication SkillsPresentation SkillsTeam Collaboration

Tools & Technologies

MATLABHFSSADSCSTPythonVNASpectrum AnalyzerAltiumSQLAutomated Test Environments

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. Security ClearanceDepartment of Defense Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

RF EngineeringAerospace SystemsDefense SystemsPhased-Array TilesHigh-Density Electronic Assemblies

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AssemblyPythonSQL

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop RF system, antenna, and phased-array models covering propagation, element behavior, beamforming, RF distribution, amplification, frequency conversion, digitization, and system interfaces
Analyze gain, loss, noise figure, EIRP, scan loss, beam patterns, sidelobes, phase and amplitude error, dynamic range, and link margin
Evaluate component tolerances, calibration residuals, thermal drift, mutual coupling, packaging, layout, and assembly variation
Use MATLAB, HFSS, ADS, CST, Python, or comparable tools to develop reusable models, simulation workflows, automated analyses, and technical visualizations
Define and document model assumptions, interfaces, parameters, units, limitations, and validity ranges
Automate parameter sweeps, uncertainty studies, sensitivity analyses, optimization, and design trade studies
Correlate model predictions with measured data from RF boards, phased-array tiles, subsystems, antenna ranges, chambers, and production testing
Investigate model-to-measurement differences with design and test engineers and update models using controlled evidence
Provide performance margins, sensitivity results, and recommendations for architecture, component selection, PCB layout, calibration, packaging, and assembly decisions
Support requirements development, verification planning, test definition, and technical closure through analysis and measurable predictions
Participate in design, test-readiness, production-readiness, and customer technical reviews
Maintain configuration-controlled records of model inputs, outputs, revisions, configurations, and correlation results
Lead technical tasks, modeling efforts, special projects, or process improvements based on experience
Mentor junior and mid-level engineers and promote reusable, traceable, and disciplined modeling practices
Support occasional travel to customer, supplier, test, or field locations as required

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related technical discipline
Mid-Level: Typically five or more years of relevant experience in RF modeling, electromagnetic simulation, array analysis, RF system development, or related hardware development
Senior-Level: Typically eight or more years of relevant experience, including demonstrated technical leadership in RF modeling, simulation, or system analysis
Strong understanding of RF systems, phased-array architecture, beamforming, antennas, RF front ends, propagation, mixed-signal interfaces, and measurement correlation
Advanced MATLAB experience and working proficiency with at least one additional tool, such as HFSS, ADS, CST, Python, or a comparable RF simulation environment
Ability to define engineering assumptions, quantify sensitivity and uncertainty, and communicate model limitations clearly
Experience applying analysis results to design decisions, requirements evidence, test planning, or technical recommendations
Strong analytical, technical writing, visualization, communication, and presentation skills
Ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary engineering teams
Must be a U.S. citizen
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance, if required by the program
Experience modeling digital beamforming, calibration, scan performance, mutual coupling, thermal effects, or array pattern behavior
Experience with link budgets, EIRP, noise figure, P1dB, IP3, dynamic range, EVM, ACLR, phase noise, or related RF performance metrics
Experience correlating simulations with VNA, spectrum analyzer, antenna-range, chamber, production-test, or other measured data
Experience with RF boards, phased-array tiles, antenna interfaces, RF front ends, or high-density electronic assemblies
Familiarity with Altium, SQL or engineering data systems, automated test environments, and hardware configuration control
Experience developing reusable simulation frameworks, automated analysis tools, or engineering visualization methods
Knowledge of uncertainty quantification, statistical analysis, optimization, or design-of-experiments methods
Experience supporting prototype development, production transition, qualification testing, or fielded aerospace and defense systems
Current and active U.S. Department of Defense security clearance

Benefits

Comp & perks

Health insurance
Life insurance
Disability benefits
Company holidays and paid time off
Parental leave
401(k) company match and contributions
Professional development/training reimbursements
Work/life programs
Medical, dental, and vision benefits
9/80 work schedule
Paid holiday shutdown