RF Chain Architecture: Design and implement high-performance RF up and down converter chains (superheterodyne, direct conversion) connecting the digital domain (ADC/DAC) to the antenna.
Front-End Design: Develop robust RF Front-Ends (RFE), including Low Noise Amplifiers (LNA), Power Amplifiers (PA), mixers, filters, and local oscillators.
Antenna Engineering: Simulate, design, and validate custom antenna elements and arrays optimized for size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints on unmanned platforms.
System Design: Conduct installed performance analysis (CST/HFSS) to optimize antenna placement, accounting for platform shadowing and coupling effects.
PCB & Layout: Execute precision RF PCB layout (impedance control, layer stack-up management, signal integrity) using Altium Designer.
Link Budgeting: Perform detailed system-level analysis, including cascade analysis (Gain, NF, IP3) and link budget calculations to define component specifications.
RF Architecture: Deep understanding of transceiver architectures (Superhet, Zero-IF) and signal conditioning.
Simulation Tools: Proficiency with electromagnetic simulation software (e.g., CST Studio Suite, HFSS, FEKO) and circuit simulation tools (e.g., Keysight ADS, AWR Microwave Office).
Component Selection: Experience selecting discrete RF components (filters, couplers, circulators, switches) and designing matching networks.
Layout Expertise: Proven expertise in RF PCB design layout techniques, preferably in Altium Designer, including mitigation of parasitic effects.
Measurement: Hands-on proficiency with RF measurement techniques (S-parameters, Noise Figure, P1dB, IP3, etc.).
Mindset: Ability to work with precision, discipline, and a strong security mindset suited for defense applications.