RF Systems Engineer Senior Principal

General Dynamics

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Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Salary
$129,813–$172,500 / yr
Posted
66 days ago
Freshness
Confirmed live today

Market check

Salary context

Below market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $188k
This role $151k
$117k $246k
below market most similar roles pay here above market

This role pays less than 84% of similar roles. Most pay $161,825–$214,500 — the blue band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $151k versus about $188k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About General Dynamics

General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company offering a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation, ship construction, land combat vehicles, and information technology. It serves customers in the U.S. government, allied governments, and a diverse array of commercial markets.

General Dynamics currently has 1377 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $124,093–$150,385 across 1184 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · RF Systems Engineer Senior Principal

The RF Systems Engineer Sr. Principal joins the IT Infrastructure and Operations team to support Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems engineering for the Federal Aviation Administration. This role involves leading research, testing, evaluation, and spectrum analysis of UAS detection and mitigation technologies within active airport environments. Key responsibilities include leading radar testing across L, S, C, X, Ku, and Ka bands using FMCW and pulse Doppler waveforms, conducting precise RF measurements for spectral compliance, and performing near-field and far-field antenna range measurements. The position requires expertise in complex systems, radars, and radio frequency engineering. Candidates must utilize spectrum analyzers, modeling, and simulation tools like MATLAB or Python to translate data into performance specifications and safety assessments that influence future aviation safety standards and FAA Advisory Circulars.

What you'll do

  • Lead radar testing across multiple frequency bands using FMCW, pulse Doppler, and Phased Array antenna technologies.
  • Conduct precise RF measurements for power, gain, EIRP, and spectrum occupancy to ensure electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Perform near-field and far-field antenna range measurements in controlled and operational environments.
  • Execute spectrum interference testing at active airports and manage vendor systems during deployment and data collection.
  • Develop detailed test plans, test cards, and structured evaluation frameworks for UAS detection and mitigation technologies.
  • Conduct RF hazard analyses and safety assessments prior to conducting open-air testing.
  • Translate RD/T&E data into performance specification frameworks to shape FAA Advisory Circulars and safety standards.
  • Create multi-airport CUAS operational recommendations aligned with FAA Safety Risk Management principles.

What we're looking for

  • Must possess an MBI (T2) public trust.
  • Must be able to obtain an FAA Suitability clearance and maintain a valid U.S. passport.
  • Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Systems, Mechanical (preferred), or another technical discipline.
  • Non-U.S. degrees must be ABET accredited.
  • 10+ years of progressive engineering experience in RF, radar, or spectrum management.
  • Proven experience using spectrum analyzers and other equipment to test and characterize complex RF devices for FCC/NTIA compliance.
  • Demonstrated success in conducting open-air RF/spectrum data collection.
  • Direct experience developing or executing structured test plans for aviation or defense technologies (preferred).
  • Proficiency with data analysis and visualization tools such as MATLAB, Python, JMP, or advanced Excel (preferred).
  • Familiarity with FAA Safety Risk Management (SRM) principles or airport operations (preferred).

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