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Engineering

Principal Antenna Engineer

Date
04 September 2025
Location
USA
Company Description

Intellian Technologies

Intellian is the world’s leading provider of satellite antennas and terminals, with a mission to empower connectivity so connectivity can empower the world. We are driven by a passion for innovation and agile responsiveness to customer needs. As the crucial link between satellite networks and millions of people on Earth, Intellian’s leading technology and antennas empower global connectivity across oceans and continents, organizations, and communities. Strategic thinking, an obsession with quality, and a proven ability to deliver enable Intellian to invent for the future, creating mutual success for partners and customers as the world’s connectivity needs evolve.

Job Position

Principal Antenna Engineer

Job Type

Full Time

Prime Purpose

Principal Antenna Engineer with 15+ years of proven experience, you won't just be designing components; you will be the driving force behind the entire lifecycle of next-generation RF and antenna modules for our state-of-the-art SatCom user terminals.

This is a career-defining role for an expert who thrives on technical challenges and leadership. You will help lead a team of brilliant engineers, partner with executive leaders to design the antenna and RF system architecture from concept to production, and leave your mark on products that have a global impact. If you are ready to apply your 15+ years of expertise to solve complex problems and mentor a world-class team, we want to talk to you.

Responsibilities

Top Three Skills to Be Successful in This Role:

  • Experience designing single and dual polarized antennas for Ku-band and Ka-band flat panel phased arrays in commercial EM simulation software (such as HFSS, CST).
  • Ability to formulate and execute DVT test plans for SATCOM phased array characterization.
  • Collaborate with and lead cross-functional teams to take customer specifications and translate that to a phased array product.


How You Will Make an Impact:

  • Architect and lead the design of antenna and RF systems for Ku- and Ka-band SatCom terminal products.
  • Oversee the design and development of various types of Ku- and Ka-band antenna apertures for SatCom terminal applications.
  • Utilize advanced simulation software and physical modeling to conduct in-depth antenna analyses for design optimization and trade-offs.
  • Develop and generate design documents and technical packages to support contract manufacturers in prototype fabrication.
  • Lead the drafting of test plans for RF and antenna modules, ensuring thorough design verification test (DVT) campaigns.
  • Design phased arrays based on customer specifications such as G/T and EIRP.
  • Establish and manage RF lab facilities, coordinating and conducting RF and antenna tests, measurements, and characterization.
  • Design and develop RF and antenna test setups and necessary testing fixtures to ensure accurate measurements.
  • Write and manage scripting languages to automate testing processes for improved efficiency and accuracy.
  • Create and review comprehensive antenna and RF test reports, ensuring data accuracy and clarity.
  • Lead cross-functional engineering teams to review and approve antenna system designs, ensuring alignment with overall product goals.
  • Support production ramp-up by providing technical guidance to manufacturing partners for prototypes and volume production.
  • Provide expert engineering analysis and define system specifications for Electronically Steered Antennas (ESA), incorporating radiating elements, beamforming chips, polarizers, and radomes.
  • Calculate and estimate AESA design features and performance parameters, including radiator types, element count, beam scan range, G/T, and EIRP, based on customer specifications.
  • Design, optimize, and develop AESA antennas and associated components such as polarizers and radomes, using advanced simulations followed by prototyping and validation through measurements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the integration of beamforming MMIC chips, polarizers, radomes, and controllers in ESA systems, providing high-level technical oversight.
Qualifications

Experience

  • Master of Science (MS) in Electrical Engineering or Physics with a focus on antenna research is required.
  • A Ph.D. with extensive research in antenna and EM-wave theory is highly preferred.
  • 15+ years of proven experience in designing and developing SatCom antenna apertures, with a strong focus on phased array antennas.
  • 15+ years of experience defining and leading antenna and RF system architecture design.
    Demonstrated leadership experience managing, mentoring, and developing engineering teams through the full product lifecycle.

Technical Skills

  • Expert-level knowledge of antenna design principles and microwave theory.
  • Mastery of antenna design and simulation tools such as HFSS, CST, or equivalent software.
  • Hands-on expertise with RF test equipment, including Vector Network Analyzers, Spectrum Analyzers, and Signal Generators.
  • Deep understanding of antenna testing methodologies in both far-field and near-field ranges.
  • Specialized experience in the design of flat-panel, active steerable-beam phased array antennas and their components (beamforming chips, polarizers, advanced PCB-based radiators).
  • Strong knowledge of commercial microwave PCB materials and manufacturing processes is highly preferred.

Soft Skills

  • Strategic Problem-Solver: You possess exceptional decision-making skills, thriving in fast-paced environments to navigate complex design and verification challenges.
  • Influential Communicator: You can articulate complex technical concepts clearly and concisely to cross-functional teams, leadership, and external partners.
  • Inspirational Mentor: You have a passion for developing junior engineers and fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaborative innovation.
  • Master Organizer: You can flawlessly manage multiple high-stakes projects simultaneously, driving them to completion on schedule.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work effectively in an RF laboratory environment, operating test equipment and measurement tools.
  • Ability to lift and move equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Comfortable working in a hybrid office and lab setting, with occasional travel to manufacturing partner sites as required.

Total Rewards & Benefits:

  • We are pleased to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' success and well-being.
  • Flexible time off and paid company holidays to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  • An annual performance-based bonus program to recognize and reward your contributions.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
  • Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage for your peace of mind.
  • A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a valuable employer safe harbor contribution.
  • Support for your career growth through ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Free, confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering counseling, financial resources, and legal support for life's challenges.
  • A private Wellness Room available for nursing mothers and for personal well-being needs.
  • A strong company culture fostered through employee social events, Lunch & Learns, and team outings.
  • Convenient access to a free on-site gym with full locker rooms and shower facilities.
  • Enjoy our fully stocked kitchen with complimentary snacks, fresh fruit, and a wide assortment of hot and cold beverages.

Pay Transparency

The estimated salary range for this role is $200,000- $280,000. Actual pay will vary based on varying factors, including but not limited to relevant experience. Additional compensation elements may be offered depending on the role, which may include an opportunity for an annual bonus based on both company and individual performance. Intellian Technologies is committed to providing fair and equitable compensation for all employees.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Intellian Technologies, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

How to Apply

Apply on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/talent/hire/1160111556/job-post?jobId=4283076846