RF Signal Processing & Communications Engineer

RF Signal Processing & Communications Engineer

Leidos' Defense RF Systems UAS Portfolio is seeking an RF Signal Processing & Communications Engineer to join our team supporting the development, testing, and evaluation of advanced datalink and communications systems for tactical and airborne platforms.

You'll apply your expertise in RF systems, digital signal processing, and communications theory to conduct performance testing in lab, field, and flight environments. Your work will directly support Department of Defense (DoD) customers by providing in-depth performance and vulnerability assessments of advanced datalink waveforms.

As a technical subject matter expert (SME), you'll also collaborate closely with government stakeholders to inform product development, shape acquisition strategies, and guide technology transitions.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

Leidos Defense Systems Sector provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world's toughest security challenges for customers with "can't fail" missions.

Are you ready to make an impact? Share your resume with us today!

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide subject matter expertise in RF signal processing and communications with a focus on tactical datalink systems (e.g., CDL, SATCOM, LOS/BLOS).
• Plan, execute, and support datalink testing activities in lab settings, as well as field and flight test operations.
• Support the development of test plans, procedures, and technical reports.
• Analyze and assess waveform performance, resilience, detectability, and vulnerabilities in operationally relevant scenarios.
• Interface with government stakeholders, test teams, and integration partners to ensure test objectives and system requirements are met.

Basic Qualifications

• BS degree and 8 – 12 years of prior relevant experience or MS in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or a related STEM field from an accredited institution with 6-10 years of applicable experience in RF signal processing, communications or Electronic Warfare (EW).
• Solid understanding of RF theory, including propagation, schematics, RF testing, and link budget analysis, with emphasis on over-the-air signal detection.
• Proficiency in core signal processing concepts, including Fourier transforms, filtering, noise modeling, and signal modeling.
• Strong understanding of digital modulation techniques, coding, synchronization, and waveform design.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in MATLAB (object-oriented preferred) or similar tools.
• Hands-on experience with RF lab equipment such as spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and oscilloscopes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop detailed technical reports and briefings.
• Experience with radio testing in lab and field environments, including flight tests.
• Must possess and be able to maintain a Secret clearance (Top Secret eligibility preferred).
• Must be a resident of Huntsville, AL or willing to relocate to the Huntsville, AL area.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. degree with an emphasis in electromagnetic theory.
• Experience with spread spectrum techniques and concepts.
• Familiarity with signal detection techniques, including energy and feature-based detection.
• Knowledge of advanced signal analysis techniques such as cyclic autocorrelation and cepstral analysis.
• Experience with EW testing.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.