RF Systems Engineer (Antenna and Ground Stations)

About the Role

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible by standard smartphones. This ultra-powerful network, called SpaceMobile, is designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet. We are seeking an entry-level RF Systems Engineer to support antenna and ground station systems through design, integration, testing, and field deployment. This is a 100% on-site role based in Dallas, Texas, or Arlington, Virginia, requiring up to 50% travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Support RF system analysis for antennas and ground stations, including link budgets, G/T (gain-to-noise-temperature ratio), and EIRP (effective isotropic radiated power) calculations.
• Assist with installation, integration, and testing of RF equipment, including antennas, feeds, LNAs (low-noise amplifiers), HPAs (high-power amplifiers), and converters.
• Perform RF measurements using spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters, and record and review the results.
• Prepare test plans, procedures, and reports, and maintain accurate system documentation.
• Coordinate with suppliers regarding deliveries, test results, and open technical issues under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Travel to ground station sites and supplier facilities to support field work and acceptance testing.
• Learn and apply team practices for design, testing, documentation, and configuration management.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• RF test equipment: spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters.
• RF and system analysis: link budgets, G/T calculations, EIRP calculations, and noise and gain analysis.
• Simulation and modeling: MATLAB and Ansys HFSS preferred.
• RF hardware: antennas, feeds, LNAs, HPAs, converters, and satellite ground station equipment.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Experience:
• One or more relevant internships or co-op assignments involving RF systems, antennas, active or passive RF components, satellites, or ground stations.
• Working knowledge of RF fundamentals, including transmission lines, antennas, link budgets, noise analysis, and gain analysis.
• Hands-on familiarity with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters.
• Ability and willingness to work 100% on-site in Dallas, Texas, or Arlington, Virginia.
• Willingness to relocate to Dallas or Arlington and travel up to 50%.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Coursework, projects, or internship experience involving Q/V-band systems (approximately 37 to 52 GHz) or other millimeter-wave systems.
• Experience with antenna measurements or satellite ground terminal projects, including university or student programs.
• Familiarity with MATLAB or other electromagnetic, RF, or link-analysis software.
• Exposure to coordinating with suppliers or vendors during an internship or technical project.
• Knowledge of or familiarity with Ansys HFSS modeling.
• Soft Skills:
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate with senior engineers, suppliers, field teams, and cross-functional partners.
• Attention to detail when preparing calculations, test records, reports, and configuration documentation.
• Adaptability and readiness to support frequent field travel and hands-on work.
• Physical Requirements:
• Ability to work in on-site engineering, laboratory, supplier, and ground station environments.
• Ability to set up, operate, and support the installation of RF test equipment, antennas, cables, fixtures, and related hardware.
• Ability to travel up to 50%, primarily to ground station sites and supplier facilities.
• Ability to follow applicable site, laboratory, environmental, health, and safety procedures.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $90,000 to $97,000.
• Competitive benefits package.
• No relocation allowance is provided.
• Benefits & Perks:
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Company-Paid Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Company-Paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Supplemental Benefits
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays
• Career Growth and Development Opportunities