Senior Electrical Engineer – Radio Frequency (RF) Systems - Saronic

Job Title: Senior Electrical Engineer – Radio Frequency (RF) Systems
Job Location: Austin, Texas
Job Listing URL: https://jobs.lever.co/saronic/bde456c8-3965-49dd-ad74-6b34af89c16c
Job Description: Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

Position Overview
Saronic Technologies is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer specializing in Radio Frequency (RF) systems to join our Electrical Engineering – Advanced Development group. This role will focus on the research, evaluation, and integration of RF communications and sensing technologies - including radio transceivers, radar systems, antennas, and related electronics - supporting autonomous vessel networks and situational awareness.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience in RF system design, testing, and benchmarking, with a strong foundation in wireless communications, spectrum management, and signal propagation in marine environments. This is a technically demanding, research-focused position with opportunities to influence system architecture and future platform capabilities.
Key Responsibilities
Lead R&D efforts in RF communications, radar, and electronic sensing technologies for autonomous surface vessels.
Evaluate and benchmark RF hardware and subsystems, including radios, antennas, and signal processing modules across multiple frequency bands (VHF/UHF, L/S/C/X bands).
Conduct trade studies and comparative analyses of commercial and military-grade RF solutions to inform system selection and integration strategies.
Design, prototype, and test RF systems and supporting electrical architectures, including cabling, shielding, and power interfaces.
Model and analyze RF propagation and link performance in maritime and littoral environments.
Collaborate cross-functionally with autonomy, software, and mechanical teams to ensure seamless integration of communication and sensing systems.
Develop test procedures, perform validation trials, and analyze system performance under operational and environmental conditions.
Author detailed R&D documentation, including technical reports, design specifications, and performance evaluations.
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to Saronic’s RF technology roadmap and internal knowledge base.
Support field testing and vessel trials, including setup and troubleshooting of communication and radar systems.
Required Qualifications
B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related discipline.
7+ years of professional experience in RF system design, testing, and integration -preferably in maritime, automotive, aerospace, or defense applications.
Deep understanding of RF theory, antenna design, and signal propagation, including real-world marine effects (multipath, reflection, attenuation).
Hands-on experience with RF instrumentation (spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, power meters, etc.).
Proven ability to conduct trade studies and technology benchmarking for RF components and systems.
Familiarity with communications protocols such as Ethernet, CAN, and serial interfaces, and with wireless standards (LTE, SATCOM, mesh networking).
Strong documentation and communication skills; able to translate test results into actionable design insights.
Ability to work effectively in both lab and field test environments (dockside, at-sea, and range conditions).
Physical Requirements
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Occasional standing and walking within the office.
Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports.
Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies.
Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages).
Benefits
Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office