Senior Electrical Engineer - RF Systems

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