Principal Microwave Engineer

Position Overview:
We are seeking a Principal Microwave Systems Engineer to serve as a technical leader, driving innovation, ensuring product performance, and supporting the full lifecycle from concept through production.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of complex microwave/RF components and system-level architectures
• Perform detailed modeling and simulation of microwave circuits, subsystems, and full system performance
• Drive hands-on testing, validation, and troubleshooting of microwave systems and components
• Oversee packaging design to ensure performance, reliability, and manufacturability of RF/microwave products
• Conduct Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify risks and implement mitigation strategies
• Analyze test data and provide recommendations for design improvements and optimization
• Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, mechanical, manufacturing, and quality teams
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to junior engineers
• Support product transfer to manufacturing, including documentation, process development, and yield improvement
• Ensure designs meet regulatory, quality, and performance standards

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (Masters or PhD preferred)
• 7+ years of experience in microwave/RF engineering or related field
• Strong background in microwave system design, modeling, and test methodologies
• Experience with RF simulation and design tools (e.g., HFSS, ADS, CST, or similar)
• Hands-on experience with RF test equipment (network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, etc.)
• Proven experience with Failure Analysis techniques

Determining compensation for this role (and others) at Vaco/Highspring depends upon a wide array of factors including but not limited to the individuals skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, office location and other geographic considerations, as well as other business and organizational needs. With that said, as required by local law in geographies that require salary range disclosure, Vaco/Highspring notes the salary range for the role is noted in this job posting. The individual may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, and can participate in medical, dental, and vision benefits as well as the companys 401(k) retirement plan. Additional disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted in the job description, the position Vaco/Highspring is filing for is occupied. Please note, however, that Vaco/Highspring is regularly asked to provide talent to other organizations. By submitting to this position, you are agreeing to be included in our talent pool for future hiring for similarly qualified positions. Submissions to this position are subject to the use of AI to perform preliminary candidate screenings, focused on ensuring minimum job requirements noted in the position are satisfied. Further assessment of candidates beyond this initial phase within Vaco/Highspring will be otherwise assessed by recruiters and hiring managers. Vaco/Highspring does not have knowledge of the tools used by its clients in making final hiring decisions and cannot opine on their use of AI products.