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High Power Microwave Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... weight, power, thermal, and environmental factors. * Lead the development of RFIC/MMIC and T/R ... Experience designing high-frequency CCAs design/development for space applications. * Understanding ...

Analog Circuit Designer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$160K - $170K/yr

Your work will enable high-efficiency, high-power RF systems for ground-based, airborne, and space ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF/Microwave Engineering, or a related field (MS/PhD ...

... weight, power, thermal, and environmental factors. * Lead the development of RFIC/MMIC and T/R ... Experience designing high-frequency CCAs design/development for space applications. * Understanding ...

Utility Metal Finisher

Gorham, ME · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Microwave Techniques Components Division, located in Gorham, Maine is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-power microwave components. Our employees ...

Utility Metal Finisher

Gorham, ME · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Microwave Techniques Components Division, located in Gorham, Maine is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-power microwave components. Our employees create and deliver ...

Test experience in high frequency circuits ranging from baseband to millimeter wave is required ... Power Meters * The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance post ...

Test experience in high frequency circuits ranging from baseband to millimeter wave is required ... Power Meters * The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance post ...

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Showing results 1-20

High Power Microwave Engineer information

See salary details

$36K

$94.1K

$140.5K

How much do high power microwave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for high power microwave engineer in the United States is $94,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges High Power Microwave Engineers face when working on system integration projects?

High Power Microwave Engineers often encounter challenges related to thermal management, electromagnetic interference, and ensuring system compatibility during integration projects. Successfully addressing these issues requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers, to design reliable solutions that meet safety and performance standards. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both theoretical principles and practical constraints are essential to overcoming these hurdles and delivering robust microwave systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a High Power Microwave Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a High Power Microwave Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, RF/microwave circuit design, and electromagnetic theory, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Expertise with simulation tools like HFSS, CST Microwave Studio, and familiarity with laboratory test equipment are also essential, along with possible security clearances depending on the employer. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for designing, optimizing, and safely implementing high-power microwave systems in defense, communications, or scientific applications.

What is the difference between High Power Microwave Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectHigh Power Microwave EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, specialized in microwave/RF systemsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, with focus on RF design
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, defense, aerospace, military applicationsTelecommunications, wireless, consumer electronics industries
Employer & Industry UsageDefense contractors, aerospace firms, government agenciesTelecom companies, electronics manufacturers, research institutions

High Power Microwave Engineers focus on designing and testing high-energy microwave systems used in defense and aerospace, while RF Engineers work on designing radio frequency systems for communication and consumer devices. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds but differ in application and power levels.

What are High Power Microwave Engineers?

High Power Microwave Engineers are specialized electrical engineers who design, develop, and test systems and devices that operate using high-power microwave (HPM) energy. Their work typically involves creating technologies for applications such as radar, wireless communication, electronic warfare, and sometimes defense systems. These engineers focus on the safe and efficient generation, transmission, and application of microwave energy at high power levels. They often collaborate with physicists, material scientists, and other engineers to solve complex technical challenges. High Power Microwave Engineers require strong backgrounds in electromagnetics, RF/microwave engineering, and related disciplines.
Infographic showing various High Power Microwave Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,100 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
Sr. Microwave Engineer - TeraWave

Sr. Microwave Engineer - TeraWave

Blue Origin

Bodega Bay, CA • Hybrid

$156K - $219K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

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We are seeking an Senior Microwave Engineer to lead the design and development of next-generation, high-performance phased array RF front-end systems for mission-critical, high-reliability applications in space-based communications. This role will be a key technical contributor and thought leader, driving system architecture from concept through qualification.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in RF circuit theory, extensive experience in phased array front-end design, development and electromagnetic simulation, as well as the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment where innovation must align with real-world constraints.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Lead the design, simulation, and validation of next generation RF microwave components for advanced phased array antenna applications in microwave and millimeter-wave bands (e.g., X, Ku, Ka).
  • Architect scalable, phased array antenna RF front-end tailored to platform-specific constraints including size, weight, power, thermal, and environmental factors.
  • Lead the development of RFIC/MMIC and T/R modules for beamforming architectures-including analog, digital, and hybrid approaches-collaborating closely with antenna and systems engineers to define the complete RF signal chain.
  • Perform advanced RF circuit/system simulations, using tools like ADS, Cadence AWR, and MATLAB.
  • Lead the integration and test of component level and system level phased array hardware.
  • Lead RF front-end modules integration into phased array antenna and support environmental qualification efforts (e.g., thermal vacuum, vibration, radiation tolerance) for space-capable platforms.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide peer review of design artifacts, test plans, and results to ensure technical excellence.
  • Interface with systems engineering, mechanical, firmware, and program leadership to align technical execution with product goals and timelines.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends to propose architectural improvements and innovation pathways.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BS., M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field.
  • 7+ years of hands-on experience designing and validating phased array antenna systems.
  • Background designing and testing analog Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs), including frequency conversion, automatic gain control, amplifier design and analog filter design.
  • Experience designing high-frequency CCAs design/development for space applications.
  • Understanding of allocating and flowing down requirements from the system to the component level
  • Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC design or selection for T/R modules for RF front-end development.
  • Demonstrated expertise with commercial RF simulation tools (ADS, Cadence AWR, HFSS, CST, MATLAB).
  • Experience integrating RF circuit and phased arrays antenna into systems with environmental constraints such as thermal cycling, radiation, or vibration for space environment.
  • Strong hands-on experience with microwave testing techniques, including using spectrum analyzers, Real-time Spectrum Analyzers (RSAs), Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) and Performance Network Analyzer (PNAs)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Solid understanding of beamforming theory, array calibration, and electromagnetic propagation in complex environments.
  • Strong academic background that includes courses in: Microwave Engineering, Microwave Systems, Electromagnetic Theory and Radar Systems
  • Background in space- or flight-qualified hardware and environmental testing protocols.
  • Experience evaluating third party solutions for integration and or trade vs in-house development.
  • Publications or patents in the field of phased arrays or antenna systems.

Compensation Range for:

CA applicants is $156,802.00 - $219,522.45 WA applicants is $156,802.00 - $219,522.45

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.


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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000