Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

As a Lead RF Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, and testing of radio frequency (RF) and communications systems. You will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of at least one area on RF and Electromagnetic principles, RF simulation tools, Digital Signal Processing algorithms, or Communications. You will troubleshoot and solve complex RF system configurations. The role requires excellent communication skills and ability to effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary groups, including software, hardware and material engineering. Join our team today!

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
• Design RF systems and networks, including cabling, switches, routers, and access points, and troubleshoot and test network components.
• Design, develop, implement, and maintain Internet Protocol (IP)-based network technologies and applications.
• Design, debug, and test network management software and operating systems.
• Design, develop, and implement network security and device management systems and applications.
• Design, develop, and implement network storage and backup systems.
• Design, develop, and implement network monitoring and fault tolerance systems.
• Manage complex engineering projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
• Develop and maintain expertise in telecommunications technology and network architectures.
• Use standard laboratory instrumentation for validation and troubleshooting.
• Perform analysis and modeling of complex radio frequency systems
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems - develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements
• Subject Matter Expert (SME), and able to perform advanced analytical modeling and finite element analysis of complex RF systems
• Assemble and deliver customer presentations that inspire a high degree of confidence in Draper and our work
• Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines
• Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them
• Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers; Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve program goals
• Ability to lead team of multidisciplinary engineers

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities
• Knowledge of at least one area:
- RF systems and architectures
- RF active and passive circuits and components (LNAs, filters, mixers, etc.)
- Fundamental of electrical engineering (noise, linearity, stability, etc.)
- Knowledge of electromagnetic concepts
- DSP algorithms design and implementation
- Knowledge of digital communications theory and systems
• Skills with at least one set of tools:
- RF software tools (ADS, AWR, HFSS, or similar.)
- MATLAB or Python
- Software Design Radios tools
• Hands on experience with instrumentation for RF measurement (VNA, etc.).
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Strong problem solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability and willing to work in highly collaborative team environment.
• Excellent management and organizational skills: proven ability to meet deadlines, task prioritization and attention to details.

Education
Requires bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field. Masters degree preferred.

Experience
Requires 7-10 years experience in Radio Frequency or Communications Engineering or related.

Additional Job Description:

Exceptional prototyping skills; able to design and supervise construction of a state-of-the-art prototype; demonstrated ability to take a methodical, hands-on approach to characterizing and mitigating performance limitations.  Leverages troubleshooting insight to develop increasingly better systems.Strong understanding of RF Systems, from the antenna and propagation channel through to digital baseband processing, as developed in standard texts such as Barton, Haykin, Pozar, Proakis, and Rappaport.

Current in scope Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility is required or the ability to obtain one. 

This role requires onsight in Cambridge, MA.

Electronics and amateur radio hobbyists strongly encouraged to apply.

Unlimited growth opportunities for the right applicant.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.