RF Systems Design Engineer III
Frontgrade Technologies, Carlsbad, CA, United States
Job Description RF Systems Design Engineer III with strong RF systems experience supports the development of high‑reliability aerospace and defense products. The role requires a hands‑on engineer who understands the full RF signal chain and can translate customer needs into robust system architectures. This individual contributes to both product development and technical solutions for proposals and customer engagements, while owning requirements through development and working at both the system and program level.
Responsibilities Own requirements management across the full product lifecycle from proposal through production
Translate customer requirements into system and subsystem architectures.
Develop and maintain system‑level artifacts including block diagrams, interconnects, and VCRMs.
Define and analyze full RF signal chains such as front‑end, amplification, filtering, conversion for EW or space‑based applications.
Collaborate cross‑functionally with electrical, mechanical, firmware, and manufacturing teams across sites.
Interface directly with customers to communicate technical approaches, manage expectations, and drive alignment.
Support bids and proposals for RFQs/RFPs by developing architectures, technical volumes, and feasibility assessments.
Contribute to system verification and validation planning and execution.
Apply creative systems‑level thinking to solve complex technical challenges.
Understand and conform to all company policies and procedures.
Contribute and implement to design reviews and ensure traceability to requirements.
Understand and analyse project requirements and business expectations.
Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field.
Minimum five (5) years of experience in aerospace/defense or high‑reliability electronics. OR (9) years of experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelors Degree.
OR (3) years of experience may be considered w/ a Masters Degree.
Experience with RF systems and signal chain design in Electronic Warfare (EW) or space‑based RF systems
Strong background in requirements management and system architecture
Experience participating in design reviews and system‑level documentation
Background working for a supplier to aerospace/defense Primes
Familiarity with high‑power amplifiers and RF component integration
Knowledge of MIL‑STD, space qualification, and environmental testing
Ability to operate independently in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment
Ability to obtain and/or maintain a Security Clearance.
About Frontgrade At Frontgrade, we build mission‑critical electronics that perform without compromise in the world’s most demanding environments, from deep space to national defense. With decades of proven heritage, we deliver high‑reliability components, subsystems, and integrated solutions trusted when failure is not an option. But our strength is not just in what we build. It is in the people who make it possible. From engineers and product managers to sales teams, marketers, and skilled manufacturing professionals, every role plays a direct part in enabling missions that protect, explore, and connect our world. We move with purpose, collaborate across disciplines, and take pride in delivering solutions our customers rely on in the highest‑stakes environments. If you want your work, whatever your specialty, to contribute to something bigger, you will find your place at Frontgrade.
Why Work for Us We believe mission success starts with taking care of our people. That’s why we offer competitive health, wealth, and wellbeing benefits from day one. You’ll also find real opportunities to learn, grow, and advance, whether you’re building technical expertise, leading teams, or expanding into new areas. Here, your growth is part of the mission.
Additional Information This position may require access to technology, materials, software or hardware that is controlled by either ITAR or EAR U.S. export laws. As a condition of any job offer, in order to be employed in this position, you may need to obtain a U.S. Government export license(s), as required by law.
Other Benefits Include Immediate Medical (FSA and HSA), Dental, and Vision
401K Match with 100% immediate vesting
9X80 compressed work schedule for qualifying roles
Career Opportunity and Growth
Tuition Reimbursement/Student Loan Repayment
Generous PTO and 11 paid Holidays per year (9 designated holidays and 2 floating holidays)
8 weeks of 100% Paid Family Leave
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Responsibilities Own requirements management across the full product lifecycle from proposal through production
Translate customer requirements into system and subsystem architectures.
Develop and maintain system‑level artifacts including block diagrams, interconnects, and VCRMs.
Define and analyze full RF signal chains such as front‑end, amplification, filtering, conversion for EW or space‑based applications.
Collaborate cross‑functionally with electrical, mechanical, firmware, and manufacturing teams across sites.
Interface directly with customers to communicate technical approaches, manage expectations, and drive alignment.
Support bids and proposals for RFQs/RFPs by developing architectures, technical volumes, and feasibility assessments.
Contribute to system verification and validation planning and execution.
Apply creative systems‑level thinking to solve complex technical challenges.
Understand and conform to all company policies and procedures.
Contribute and implement to design reviews and ensure traceability to requirements.
Understand and analyse project requirements and business expectations.
Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field.
Minimum five (5) years of experience in aerospace/defense or high‑reliability electronics. OR (9) years of experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelors Degree.
OR (3) years of experience may be considered w/ a Masters Degree.
Experience with RF systems and signal chain design in Electronic Warfare (EW) or space‑based RF systems
Strong background in requirements management and system architecture
Experience participating in design reviews and system‑level documentation
Background working for a supplier to aerospace/defense Primes
Familiarity with high‑power amplifiers and RF component integration
Knowledge of MIL‑STD, space qualification, and environmental testing
Ability to operate independently in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment
Ability to obtain and/or maintain a Security Clearance.
About Frontgrade At Frontgrade, we build mission‑critical electronics that perform without compromise in the world’s most demanding environments, from deep space to national defense. With decades of proven heritage, we deliver high‑reliability components, subsystems, and integrated solutions trusted when failure is not an option. But our strength is not just in what we build. It is in the people who make it possible. From engineers and product managers to sales teams, marketers, and skilled manufacturing professionals, every role plays a direct part in enabling missions that protect, explore, and connect our world. We move with purpose, collaborate across disciplines, and take pride in delivering solutions our customers rely on in the highest‑stakes environments. If you want your work, whatever your specialty, to contribute to something bigger, you will find your place at Frontgrade.
Why Work for Us We believe mission success starts with taking care of our people. That’s why we offer competitive health, wealth, and wellbeing benefits from day one. You’ll also find real opportunities to learn, grow, and advance, whether you’re building technical expertise, leading teams, or expanding into new areas. Here, your growth is part of the mission.
Additional Information This position may require access to technology, materials, software or hardware that is controlled by either ITAR or EAR U.S. export laws. As a condition of any job offer, in order to be employed in this position, you may need to obtain a U.S. Government export license(s), as required by law.
Other Benefits Include Immediate Medical (FSA and HSA), Dental, and Vision
401K Match with 100% immediate vesting
9X80 compressed work schedule for qualifying roles
Career Opportunity and Growth
Tuition Reimbursement/Student Loan Repayment
Generous PTO and 11 paid Holidays per year (9 designated holidays and 2 floating holidays)
8 weeks of 100% Paid Family Leave
#J-18808-Ljbffr