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Antenna Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AdAstra

Lead Antenna Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $159K/yr

About the Role We are looking for a Lead Antenna Design Engineer to own the design, build, and validation of this startup's phased array antenna systems. This is a builder's role: you will not just ...

FTS International LLC

Antenna Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$165K - $197K/yr

The Antenna Engineer will provide systems engineering technical assistance in the area of satellite ... Perform satellite antenna design, simulation, manufacture and test * Perform analysis of antenna ...

Kemet

Antenna/RF Design Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$100K/yr

PULSE Electronics Corporation, a YAGEO Group company, is seeking an Antenna/RF Design Engineer in Vancouver, WA. Key Responsibilities * Design, simulate, prototype, and validate antennas for ...

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Antenna Design Engineer information

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$40.5K

$111.5K

$164.5K

How much do antenna design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for antenna design engineer in the United States is $111,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do antenna design engineers make?

Antenna design engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or working in high-demand industries can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000 annually.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an antenna design engineer?

To thrive as an Antenna Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electromagnetics, RF engineering, and antenna theory, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools like CST Microwave Studio, HFSS, or MATLAB, as well as experience with measurement equipment such as network analyzers, is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and convey complex technical findings. These skills ensure innovative antenna solutions, efficient project execution, and reliable performance in communication systems.

What is the difference between Antenna Design Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectAntenna Design EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, specialized in antennas or RFBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, RF or Communications focus
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, simulation software, prototype testingTesting labs, signal analysis, system integration
Industry UsageTelecommunications, aerospace, defenseWireless communications, radar, satellite systems

Both roles require strong electrical engineering backgrounds, but Antenna Design Engineers focus specifically on antenna structures and radiation patterns, while RF Engineers work on overall radio frequency systems and signal integrity. They often collaborate but have distinct specializations within wireless and communication industries.

Is antenna design difficult?

Antenna design can be complex, requiring knowledge of electromagnetics, signal propagation, and materials. Engineers often use specialized simulation tools and need strong problem-solving skills to develop effective antenna solutions, making it a challenging but rewarding field.

What are some common challenges faced by antenna design engineers when working on projects with tight deadlines?

Antenna Design Engineers often face challenges such as rapidly iterating prototypes, managing electromagnetic interference issues, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards within limited timeframes. Balancing performance requirements with constraints like size, weight, and cost can add complexity, especially when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams such as RF engineers and product designers. Effective communication, strong project management skills, and a solid understanding of simulation tools are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering high-quality designs on schedule.

What does an antenna design engineer do?

An Antenna Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing antennas for various communication systems, such as wireless networks, satellites, and mobile devices. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software and simulation tools to create antenna models and optimize their performance. Their role also involves collaborating with other engineers to ensure the antenna meets technical requirements, regulatory standards, and fits within the constraints of a given product or system.
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Antenna Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Antenna Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,500 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Lead Antenna Design Engineer

AdAstra

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

$120K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Company

This aerospace startup is revolutionizing the skies by developing high-altitude, solar-powered UAVs designed for real-time next-gen communication capabilities. With ambitions to surpass traditional satellite and ground-based technologies, the team is pioneering a new era of connectivity — one that will redefine global communications and access for underserved regions. Their vision is to become a trailblazer in solar-powered aviation, reshaping the future of autonomous UAVs and setting a new standard for how the world connects from above.
This company has a powerhouse team and the network/tech to surpass competitors.

We prefer this person to be located in the Bay Area and be onsite at headquarters, but for the right person we may be able to make a hybrid/remote exception for someone in LA or Seattle.

About the Role

We are looking for a Lead Antenna Design Engineer to own the design, build, and validation of this startup's phased array antenna systems. This is a builder’s role: you will not just simulate patterns but will take physical ownership of the aperture, overseeing fabrication and leading the testing of the final array. You will work in close partnership with the Principal RF Systems Engineer, who will handle the transceiver and radio architecture, allowing you to focus deeply on the electromagnetics, array synthesis, and physical realization of the antenna.

What You’ll Own

  • Design and simulate complex phased array apertures, including element selection, lattice optimization, and mutual coupling analysis.
  • Lead the physical realization of the antenna, from layout and stack-up definition to overseeing PCB fabrication and assembly.
  • Perform rigorous electromagnetic modeling using HFSS, CST, or similar tools to predict scan performance, active VSWR, and isolation.
  • execute the validation plan, including near-field and far-field chamber testing, array calibration, and beam steering verification.
  • Collaborate with the Principal RF Engineer to define the interface between the antenna feed network and the radio front-end.
  • Drive the mechanical integration of the array into the vehicle structure, managing thermal and structural constraints.
What They’re Looking For
  • Demonstrated experience designing, building, and testing phased array antenna systems (AESA or PESA).
  • Deep understanding of array theory, including beam synthesis, grating lobes, scan blindness, and side-lobe suppression.
  • Proficiency with full-wave EM solvers (HFSS, CST, FEKO) and the ability to model large finite arrays.
  • Hands-on experience in anechoic chambers performing gain, pattern, and axial ratio measurements over scan angles.
  • Familiarity with beamforming networks and the trade-offs between analog, digital, and hybrid beamforming.
  • A practical, hands-on approach to engineering—you are comfortable in the lab and on the manufacturing floor ensuring your designs get built correctly.
Benefits Why You’ll Love Working at this Startup

Join a powerhouse team of brilliant builders
Collaborate with a tight-knit crew of deeply technical and business-savvy innovators. You will work alongside leaders with a star-studded history of Silicon Valley success who are passionate about creating something industry shifting.

Competitive startup salary
Be paid well to do the most energizing work of your career.

Ground-floor equity
Own meaningful upside from day one. This is your chance to shape the company’s trajectory and participate fully in the value you help create.

Excellent health insurance
Enjoy strong medical coverage for employees so you can stay healthy while pushing boundaries.

Dog-friendly office with Bay views
Bring your pup and enjoy a beautiful workspace with panoramic water views that spark creativity and joy.

About AdAstra

AdAstra Talent Advisors is a headhunting and talent advising firm focused on the Climate, Space, and Defense sectors of Hard Tech. We specialize in pairing highly technical and executive talent with some of the world’s leading Hard Tech startups.

At AdAstra, we catalyze the innovations that future generations depend on by placing the right people in the right seats. Our dedicated work enables inconceivable technology from Earth, to the stars. And it’s all because of trailblazing talent like you - those driven to do what’s never been done before.

We care about long term relationships with both candidates and companies. Even if the role we initially discuss isn’t a perfect fit, it’s likely we’ll have something relevant to share with you in the future.

Join us on our journey by following along via LinkedIn!

CEO, Seyka Mejeur | LinkedIn profile

CTO / COO, Brian Mejeur | LinkedIn profile

AdAstra Talent Advisors | LinkedIn profile

AdAstra Website