2025 RF/ Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.  With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

We are seeking to hire an early career MMIC design and test engineer to support the Communication Electronics Department with insertion of GaN and RF integrated circuits into the nation’s sensor and communications space systems.  You will test RF, microwave, and mm-wave integrated circuits (MMICs/RFICs), analyze and summarize data, perform circuit analysis and design, and electromagnetic simulations. This role will have numerous opportunities to grow and develop new skills and areas of expertise, including but not limited to: MMIC design, hybrid MIC design, device modeling, passive microwave component design, communications systems, phased array systems, rapid prototyping, RF PCB design, and analog circuit design.

Work Model: This is a 100% onsite position in El Segundo, CA

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assist in solving technical problems in the areas of RF/microwave circuits (MMIC/RFIC), passive components, and packaging

• Support developmental experiments and prototypes in our laboratory facilities that include state of the art microwave and mm-wave instrumentation, equipment, and prototyping capabilities

• Supporting R&D and customer programs by performing research, analysis, development, and assessments of microwave circuits and systems

• Assist in developing test plans, learning state of the art measurement techniques (particularly on-wafer)

What You Need to be Successful

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline, pursuing or conferred within 12 months from an accredited college or university

• 0–1-year experience or course work in any of the following microwave specialty areas: 

• Analog/RF/Microwave circuits and systems

• Electromagnetics

• Communication Systems Engineering

• Hands-on experience with assembling, tuning, testing and/or troubleshooting electronics in a laboratory environment

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS//SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain this level of security clearance.

• Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving, an ability to rapidly grasp new concepts, and excellent written/verbal communication skills

• Transcripts required.

How You Can Stand Out

• Advanced degree

• Experience in a laboratory environment working with microwave circuits or components and associated test equipment (network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and other relevant equipment)

• Experience using any of the following tools/software: Microwave Office, ADS, Cadence, HFSS, CST, Sonnet, AXIEM, or similar software

• Experience using Python, MATLAB, or Excel for instrumentation automation and/or data and signals analysis

• Strong desire to learn

• Active clearance

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. 

(Min - Max)

$80,000 - $120,000

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy i