Key Responsibilities
Architect modular, RF transceiver systems and define cascading link budgets (NF, Gain, IP3, P1dB) from antenna to converter.
Design advanced wideband SDR front-ends and direct RF sampling topologies tailored to defeat dynamic threats.
Establish Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and hardware abstraction standards to seamlessly integrate 3rd-party subsystems (Radar, EO/RF).
Lead schematic capture, high-frequency/high-density PCB layout supervision, and component choices (PAs, LNAs, synthesis filters).
Perform electromagnetic and circuit-level modeling (ADS, HFSS, or equivalent) to resolve structural EMI/EMC and co-site isolation issues.
Formulate strict engineering Verification & Validation (V&V) plans, overseeing environmental and compliance certifications.
Champion Design for Manufacturing/Assembly/Test (DFM/DFA/DFT) workflows to ensure stable, repeatable high-yield production loops.
Define line-calibration algorithms, built-in self-tests (BIST), and leverage Statistical Process Control (SPC) data to reduce production and field escalations.
Collaborate across disciplines (Mechanical, Digital, Cyber-Software) to systematically resolve thermal, power, and high-speed noise friction points.
Act as a primary technical mentor for junior engineers, implementing standard product lifecycle (PLC) gating and best practices
1. Architecture & System-Level Design
2. Detailed HW Design, Simulation & Validation
3. DFx & Production Scale-Up
4. Leadership & Mentorship
Role Requirements
- Experience: 7+ years of hands-on professional RF/Microwave hardware design and architecture experience (Defense, Aerospace, or Telecom preferred).
- Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a highly related discipline.
- Radio Architecture: Deep knowledge of modern SDR structures, direct RF sampling frameworks, high-speed ADCs/DACs, and discrete active/passive components.
- Production Track Record: Demonstrated success taking at least two multi-layered RF products through full PLC gates from initial concept into mass production.
- Tool Mastery: Proficiency with industry simulation suites (ADS, HFSS, CST) and standard schematic/layout platforms (Altium, Cadence, or equivalent).
- Lab Capabilities: Expertise with core diagnostic tools (Vector Network Analyzers, Spectrum/Signal Analyzers, digital signal generators, noise figure meters).
Preferred Qualifications
- Proven competency navigating complex co-site isolation and spectrum management parameters in highly congested environments.
- Familiarity with RFI/EMI compliance standards (MIL-STD, CE, FCC) and mitigating failures early in layout.
- An agile, structured mindset with an eagerness to introduce robust, proactive engineering workflows to a growing team.
Skills Required
- 7+ years of RF/Microwave hardware design experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering
- Deep knowledge of SDR structures and high-speed components
- Track record of taking RF products into mass production
- Proficiency with simulation suites and schematic/layout platforms
- Expertise with diagnostic tools like VNAs and Spectrum Analyzers
What We Do
D-Fend Solutions is a leading provider of RF cyber-takeover technology for counter-drone (C-UAS) operations. Their flagship product, EnforceAir, allows organizations to detect, identify, and safely neutralize rogue drones in sensitive environments like military zones, airports, and critical infrastructure. By using non-kinetic, cyber-based mitigation, they ensure operational continuity and safety, helping organizations maintain control of their airspace against evolving drone threats.
