Hardware Engineer, Level 1

Independent Software

Annapolis Junction, MD

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JOB DETAILS

JOB TYPE

Full-time

SKILLS

Analysis Skills, Antenna, AutoCAD, Bit Error Rate (BER), Communication Skills, Computer Engineering, Control Systems, Corrective Action, Cross-Functional, Documentation, Documentation Plan, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Impact, Hardware Installation, Identify Issues, Ionosphere, Microsoft Visio, Network Performance/Analysis, Oscilloscope, People Management, Performance Analysis, Performance Tuning/Optimization, Polarization, Problem Solving Skills, Procedure Development, Project/Program Management, Radio Frequency, Radio Frequency Propagation, Safety Process, Satellite Communications, Schematics, Spectrum Analyzers, System Integration (SI), System Lifecycle, Systems Administration/Management, Systems Engineering, Systems Maintenance, Technical Writing, Test Equipment, Testing, V Band, Willing to Travel

LOCATION

Annapolis Junction, MD

POSTED

22 days ago

What You Will Do:

At Independent Software, as a RF Hardware Engineer Level 1, you will design, install, test, and maintain advanced RF and SATCOM systems supporting mission-critical operations. You will work across the full lifecycle of RF systems, ensuring reliable performance across multiple frequency bands including C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, and Q/V-band.

In this role, you will support complex RF system deployments in both controlled and austere environments, applying deep technical expertise to optimize system performance and ensure operational readiness. You will collaborate with system engineers, program teams, and field personnel to deliver high-performance communication capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

Design, install, and test RF and SATCOM hardware systems across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band)
Account for environmental and signal propagation factors including atmospheric attenuation, ionospheric effects, rain fade, and polarization mismatch
Conduct site surveys and support installation activities including antenna alignment, hardware rack and stack, and system integration
Operate and maintain earth-terminal control systems to establish and sustain communication links
Perform preventive, scheduled, and corrective maintenance on RF systems and components
Troubleshoot and resolve RF hardware issues in real-time, including degraded signal performance and system faults
Apply anti-jamming techniques and enforce operational and safety procedures
Utilize RF test equipment such as Keysight PNA-X, FieldFox, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers
Perform RF measurements including S-parameters, P1dB, TOI, noise figure, phase noise, and group delay
Conduct non-linear analysis including intermodulation distortion (IMD) and spectral regrowth
Develop and maintain technical documentation including schematics, diagrams, engineering plans, and test reports
Create AutoCAD and Visio drawings and support as-built documentation and system design packages
Coordinate with cross-functional teams including system engineers, program managers, and test personnel
Support installations, testing, and maintenance activities in remote or field environments (up to 15% travel)
Lead or support inspection and maintenance teams, and provide guidance to site personnel as needed

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Strong experience in RF system design, installation, and testing, with a focus on SATCOM systems
Experience working with RF hardware across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band)
Hands-on experience with RF test equipment including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers
Knowledge of RF signal propagation, interference, and environmental impacts on system performance
Experience troubleshooting complex RF systems and implementing corrective actions
Ability to perform hardware installation, antenna alignment, and system integration activities
Experience developing maintenance procedures and conducting system inspections
Strong understanding of RF measurement techniques and performance analysis
Ability to produce technical documentation, engineering plans, and reports
Strong communication skills and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams
Ability to work independently in dynamic and field-based environments
Physical ability to climb antennas, lift equipment, and perform hands-on installation work

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university
Relevant experience supporting RF systems design, installation, and maintenance may be substituted for a degree
Experience supporting SATCOM systems and field deployments is highly preferred

Clearance Requirement:

Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.

When you join us, you will:

Support critical national security missions that matter
Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.

Apply today.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Hardware Engineer, Level 1

Independent Software

Annapolis Junction, MD

About the Company

Independent Software

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