Lead Antenna Engineer

Lead Antenna Engineer

About the Role:

An innovative and rapidly growing defense technology organization is seeking an experienced Lead Antenna Engineer to join its engineering team in Simi Valley California. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of the design development optimization and qualification of advanced antenna systems that support mission-critical defense and aerospace applications.

As a technical leader and subject matter expert you will play a key role in shaping next-generation reflector and aperture antenna solutions while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams throughout the entire product lifecycle. You will work on complex high-impact programs drive technical innovation mentor engineering talent and contribute directly to technologies that support national security objectives.

This role is ideal for an experienced antenna engineer who enjoys solving complex electromagnetic challenges leading strategic technical initiatives and influencing the development of advanced products from concept through deployment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the analysis design development optimization and qualification of reflector and aperture antenna systems.
• Define and optimize reflector geometries feed systems and antenna architectures.
• Perform electromagnetic modeling simulation and performance analysis using industry-standard tools including TICRA GRASP Ansys HFSS and CST Studio Suite.
• Develop and evaluate radiation patterns gain performance sidelobe levels and cross-polarization characteristics.
• Support link budget analysis and overall system-level performance evaluations.
• Conduct technical trade studies and recommend optimal design solutions.
• Lead prototype development activities and validate designs through testing and measurement correlation.
• Analyze antenna range and chamber measurement data to verify predicted performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across antenna design methodologies processes and technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams across multiple programs.
• Guide project execution and support large complex cross-functional engineering initiatives.
• Collaborate with program management manufacturing quality and customer stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical challenges through detailed root-cause analysis and innovative problem-solving.
• Contribute to the development of new products engineering standards and operational processes.
• Support strategic engineering objectives and technology roadmaps.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering Physics or a related technical field with a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience.
• Graduate Degree with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience.
• In lieu of a degree a minimum of 13 years of directly related experience.
• Extensive knowledge of antenna theory applied electromagnetics reflector antenna design and aperture antenna systems.
• Hands-on experience using TICRA GRASP Ansys HFSS and CST Studio Suite.
• Proven experience with feed design antenna integration and radiation pattern analysis.
• Strong understanding of antenna measurement techniques and test data correlation.
• Experience leading complex engineering projects and multidisciplinary technical teams.
• Strong analytical communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to travel up to 10% domestically and internationally as required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.
• U.S. Citizenship required.

Why Join Us:

• Work on cutting-edge defense and aerospace technologies that directly support critical national security missions.
• Take ownership of highly visible programs and influence technical decisions from concept through production.
• Join a collaborative engineering environment that values innovation technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Lead complex projects while mentoring and developing talented engineering professionals.
• Contribute to advanced antenna and electromagnetic system development using industry-leading tools and technologies.
• Enjoy meaningful technical challenges that encourage creativity innovation and professional growth.
• Partner with experienced engineers and cross-functional teams on mission-critical programs.
• Benefit from a culture that empowers employees values expertise and recognizes contributions.
• Enjoy strong leadership support career advancement opportunities and long-term professional development.
• Achieve an excellent work-life balance through a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.

Compensation & Benefits:

• 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.
• Comprehensive medical health and disability insurance programs.
• 401(k) retirement plan with 6% company match and immediate vesting.
• Generous paid time off and company-paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement and education assistance programs.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Strong focus on employee well-being and work-life balance.
• Professional development and long-term career growth opportunities.