Entry-Level RF Engineer
Job Description
About EMA
Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. (EMA) is an employee-focused aerospace and defense engineering firm specializing in electromagnetic simulation, engineering consulting, and physical testing. For over four decades, EMA has helped customers across aerospace, defense, and commercial space understand and solve complex electromagnetic compatibility, lightning, EMP, and RF challenges. We're a close-knit, technically rigorous team where new engineers work directly alongside senior experts from day one.
The Role
We're looking for an Entry-Level RF Engineer to join our technical team supporting simulation, analysis, and test programs for customers across the aerospace, defense, and space industries. You'll work on real hardware and real physics from your first month — supporting antenna and RF system analysis, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) evaluations, and field testing for customers ranging from major defense primes to emerging space companies.
What You'll Do
- Support RF/antenna modeling and simulation
- Assist with EMC, RF susceptibility, and antenna pattern testing in the lab and in the field
- Analyze test data and simulation results, and help prepare clear technical reports for customers
- Collaborate with senior RF, EMC, and systems engineers on multi-disciplinary defense and aerospace programs
- Contribute to proposal technical content as your experience grows
- Participate in on-the-job training and mentorship from EMA's senior technical staff
What You Bring
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with coursework or research in RF/microwave engineering, antennas, or applied electromagnetics
- Foundational understanding of RF/microwave concepts: S-parameters, Smith charts, antenna fundamentals, transmission lines, and EM wave propagation
- Exposure to EM simulation tools through coursework, research, or internships
- Familiarity with a scripting/analysis language such as Python or MATLAB
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfort presenting technical results to teammates and customers
- Willingness to travel up to 25% for field testing
- Must qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR (22 CFR 120.62) — U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual — due to the nature of EMA's defense-related work
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance
Nice to Have
- Hands-on lab or test experience (senior design project, research lab, internship, or ham radio/RF hobbyist background)
- Exposure to EMC/EMI standards (MIL-STD-461, DO-160, or similar)
- Active security clearance
Compensation & Benefits
The base salary range for this position is $85,000–$115,000 per year, depending on degree level, relevant coursework/research, and internship experience. In addition to base salary, EMA offers:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Professional development support (conference attendance, certifications, continuing education)
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
- Direct mentorship from senior RF and EMC engineers in a collaborative, technically deep environment
Location
This role is based at EMA's headquarters in Lakewood, CO. Relocation assistance is available for strong candidates outside the Denver metro area.
