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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Hardware Engineer, Level 1 - **Company:** Independent Software - **Location:** Annapolis Junction, MD, United States - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** AutoCAD, Systems Engineering, Network Analysis, Microsoft Visio, Radio-Frequency Identification, Satcom, Systems Integration, Test Scripts - **Published:** July 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9009272/hardware-engineer-level-1 ## About the Role * Strong experience in RF system design, installation, and testing, with a focus on SATCOM systems * Experience working with RF hardware across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band) * Hands-on experience with RF test equipment including network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers * Knowledge of RF signal propagation, interference, and environmental impacts on system performance * Experience troubleshooting complex RF systems and implementing corrective actions * Ability to perform hardware installation, antenna alignment, and system integration activities * Experience developing maintenance procedures and conducting system inspections * Strong understanding of RF measurement techniques and performance analysis * Ability to produce technical documentation, engineering plans, and reports * Strong communication skills and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams * Ability to work independently in dynamic and field-based environments * Physical ability to climb antennas, lift equipment, and perform hands-on installation work Education and Experience: * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university * Relevant experience supporting RF systems design, installation, and maintenance may be substituted for a degree * Experience supporting SATCOM systems and field deployments is highly preferred Clearance Requirement: * Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role ## Description At Independent Software, as a RF Hardware Engineer Level 1, you will design, install, test, and maintain advanced RF and SATCOM systems supporting mission-critical operations. You will work across the full lifecycle of RF systems, ensuring reliable performance across multiple frequency bands including C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, and Q/V-band., * Design, install, and test RF and SATCOM hardware systems across multiple frequency bands (C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q/V-band) * Account for environmental and signal propagation factors including atmospheric attenuation, ionospheric effects, rain fade, and polarization mismatch * Conduct site surveys and support installation activities including antenna alignment, hardware rack and stack, and system integration * Operate and maintain earth-terminal control systems to establish and sustain communication links * Perform preventive, scheduled, and corrective maintenance on RF systems and components * Troubleshoot and resolve RF hardware issues in real-time, including degraded signal performance and system faults * Apply anti-jamming techniques and enforce operational and safety procedures * Utilize RF test equipment such as Keysight PNA-X, FieldFox, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and BER testers * Perform RF measurements including S-parameters, P1dB, TOI, noise figure, phase noise, and group delay * Conduct non-linear analysis including intermodulation distortion (IMD) and spectral regrowth * Develop and maintain technical documentation including schematics, diagrams, engineering plans, and test reports * Create AutoCAD and Visio drawings and support as-built documentation and system design packages * Coordinate with cross-functional teams including system engineers, program managers, and test personnel * Support installations, testing, and maintenance activities in remote or field environments (up to 15% travel) * Lead or support inspection and maintenance teams, and provide guidance to site personnel as needed ## Related Videos - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) - [WebAssembly Revolution: Elevating JavaScript's Reach and Performance](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1149-webassembly-revolution-elevating-javascript-s-reach-and-performance) - [Are Classical Automation Frameworks Dead? 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