RF Test Engineer
SpinLaunch
Quality Assurance
Long Beach, CA, USA
SpinLaunch is building Meridian, a next-generation broadband constellation designed to deliver high-capacity, low-latency connectivity to users around the globe. Backed by leading venture capital and engineering partners, we are rapidly scaling the design, production, and deployment of the satellites and ground systems that will bring Meridian online. Joining the Meridian team means working at the forefront of one of the most ambitious commercial space programs underway today — designing, building, and operating spacecraft that will reshape global connectivity. You'll be part of a close-knit, collaborative team that thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment, where your work directly advances a constellation that millions will depend on.
Your Mission on the Team:
In this role you will be responsible for developing software tools that accelerate, streamline and organize engineering development within the organization. This includes:
- Managing the test campaigns of various satellite communications technology development programs.
- Streamlining, automating and organizing test processes to accelerate R&D, integration and production efforts
- Designing, planning and executing new equipment tests.
- Organizing, managing and processing high volumes of test data.
- Test articles may include electronically scanned antennas, radio RF chains, passive component characterization, modems, entire satellite payloads, full satellite link bench simulation and on-orbit tech demonstration.
Basic Qualifications
- B.S. in electrical engineering, physics, or a related technical field
- Experience designing, planning, and executing tests on RF or communications hardware
- Hands-on experience with lab test equipment: spectrum analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers, oscilloscopes
- Working knowledge of RF and communications fundamentals: link budgets, modulation, noise, S-parameters
- Experience automating test equipment via SCPI, VISA, or equivalent
- Proficiency in Python for test automation and data analysis
- Experience organizing and processing large volumes of test data
- Ability to work autonomously and exercise good engineering judgement
- Strong interpersonal, verbal communication, and written communication skills
- A natural curiosity about how things work, with the patience and rigor to chase down the right answer rather than settle for a convenient one
Preferred Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in RF, communications, or satellite payload test
- Experience testing electronically scanned antennas (phased arrays)
- Experience characterizing RF chains, passive components, or modems
- Experience with full payload or end-to-end satellite link testing
- Experience supporting on-orbit testing or tech demonstrations
- Experience building data pipelines for automated test — capturing, organizing, and querying results
- Proficiency with the scientific Python stack: NumPy, SciPy, pandas
- Experience building dashboards or visualizations for test data (matplotlib, Plotly, Streamlit, Dash)
- Familiarity with version control and CI/CD for test infrastructure
- Prior experience in fast-moving startup engineering environments
ITAR Requirements
SpinLaunch is required by the U.S. Government to comply with various space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (“green card holder”) or a protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More information on ITAR can be found here.
SpinLaunch is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Each individual has the right to work in a professional environment that promotes equal employment opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices, including harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
