Radio Frequency System Engineer
Rydberg Technologies
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Posted on Mar 6, 2026
Rydberg Technologies is seeking a dynamic Senior Radio Frequency (RF) Systems Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of next-generation RF systems at the intersection of advanced electromagnetics, software-defined architectures, and quantum sensing. This is a hands-on, high-ownership technical leadership role responsible for building novel antenna and front-end architectures, advanced signal processing pipelines, and direction-finding capabilities that push the limits of state-of-the-art RF engineering.
You will work closely with a cross-functional team of quantum physicists, hardware engineers, and software developers to architect and deliver integrated RF–quantum sensor systems, translating cutting-edge research into engineered products. The ideal candidate is innovative, execution-driven, comfortable with both system-level planning and meticulous technical detail, and thrives in a fast-paced environment where first-of-a-kind technology is built.
We are looking for individuals who are solution-oriented, deeply organized, self-motivated, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively while contributing to a bold roadmap in quantum-enabled RF sensing.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and implement novel antenna front-ends hardware and RF electronics.
- Software-defined radio (SDR) solutions for advanced RF applications, leveraging GPU acceleration and RF machine learning techniques.
- Collaborate with physicists and hardware engineers to design and optimize antenna and electronic systems for various RF applications.
- Define and validate specifications of RF systems, antenna receivers, to ensure optimal performance.
- Design and implement RF electronics for RF systems, such as frequency synthesizers, power amplifiers, and RF switches, to meet system requirements.
- Conduct RF test and measurement activities, including RF characterization, performance testing, and validation, using RF test equipment.
- Research, analyze, and evaluate RF waveforms to develop algorithms and models for signal identification, classification, and direction finding.
- Integrate RF systems with quantum sensors to explore new sensing capabilities and applications.
- Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior engineers and support staff.
- Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in RF engineering, signal processing, hardware design, electronic warfare.
Other Skills:
- Engineering Design: Experience in sophisticated engineering design (SolidWorks) and electromagnetic simulation (ANSYS Electronics).
- Antenna Design and Simulation: Expert in advanced antenna and front-end design from RF to MMW, passive and active RF receivers, radar, communication systems.
- Digital Signal Processing (DSP): Proficiency in DSP algorithms and techniques for filtering, modulation, demodulation, and signal enhancement in RF systems.
- FPGA Programming: Knowledge of FPGA programming languages such as Verilog or VHDL for implementing digital signal processing algorithms and RF signal processing tasks.
- RF Circuit Design: Ability to design and optimize RF circuits, including RF filters, amplifiers, mixers, and frequency synthesizers, using RF simulation tools (e.g., ADS, Microwave Office).
- Wireless Communication Protocols: Understanding of wireless communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, and emerging technologies.
- System Integration: Experience in integrating RF systems with other subsystems, such as digital communication systems, GPS receivers, inertial sensors, and navigation systems.
- Cybersecurity: Understanding of cybersecurity principles and best practices for securing RF communication systems against cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
- Systems Engineering: Knowledge of systems engineering principles and methodologies for requirements analysis, system architecture design, and system-level integration and testing.
- Project Management: Experience in project management methodologies and tools for planning, scheduling, and executing RF system development projects.
- Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of RF regulatory standards and compliance requirements, such as FCC regulations, IEEE, EMC/EMI.
- Documentation and Reporting: Ability to create technical documentation, including design specifications, test plans, and reports, to communicate project progress and findings effectively.
- Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, test engineers, and project managers.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field; Master's and PhD degrees preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in advanced RF systems engineering or related field.
- Strong background in hardware and software development and implementation.
- Experience in hardware engineering, including design and optimization of antenna systems, front-end electronics, and RF electronics.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, Python.
- Experience with GPU programming and acceleration techniques (e.g., CUDA).
- Familiarity with RF signal processing, waveform analysis, spectrum monitoring, and direction finding methods.
- Experience with RF test and measurement equipment and techniques.
- Familiarity with quantum sensing technologies and integration with RF systems.
- Superior analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
- US citizens or green card holders may be given priority due to export controls.