Systems Engineer - Physics

Build the Future of High-Performance Connectivity At ThinKom, we don’t just build antennas - we design high-performance, next-generation mechanical systems that connect the world across air, land, sea, and space. From Inflight Connectivity (IFC) to High-Power Microwave (HPM) systems to Defense SATCOM, our technology operates in some of the world’s most demanding environments. POSITION SUMMARY The Systems Engineer is responsible for driving system-level architecture assessments, decomposing mission-level requirements into quantitative physical allocations, defining subsystem interfaces, and governing technology selection for cutting-edge counter-UAS solutions. Working as part of an Integrated Product Team (IPT) under the guidance of the Director of Systems Engineering and the Program Manager, you will lead the system design, development, testing, and implementation throughout the entire High-Power Microwave (HPM) system development lifecycle. In this role, you will outline integrated solutions meeting performance, usability, reliability, and security needs, analyze engineered products for customer use-cases, evaluate COTS components, and maintain clear technical documentation. WHAT YOU'LL DO - System Design & Lifecycle Management: Lead system design, integration, and verification/validation (V&V) test phases across the product lifecycle to support on-time project completion. - Requirements & Architecture: Decompose mission-level requirements, set subsystem and test requirements, perform flow-down and traceability, and author physical/electrical Interface Control Documents (ICDs). - Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead requirements IPTs and working group meetings with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors; prepare and present design summaries during internal/external design reviews. - Component Evaluation: Identify, analyze, and conduct hands-on evaluations of system components and commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) products to ensure compatibility and performance. - Testing & Verification: Evaluate verification test results, analyze engineered products against customer use-cases, and establish operational concepts (CONOPS). - Compliance & Documentation: Ensure compliance with DoD contract requirements, adhere to company design procedures and records retention practices, and maintain technical documentation. WHAT YOU BRING Must Haves: - Education: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field. - Experience: 2+ years of professional systems engineering experience with a direct focus on complex hardware development in Satellite Communications (Satcom), high-power or solid-state RF systems, pulsed power, or experimental physics. - Systems Engineering Rigor: Proven track record across the full product lifecycle (decomposing requirements, writing ICDs, leading multi-subsystem V&V campaigns). - Hands-on RF Expertise: Proficiency with Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and RF measurement equipment. - Simulation & Software Tools: Experience using simulation and analytical tools such as Python, MATLAB, COMSOL Multiphysics, CST Microwave Studio, or Ansys HFSS. - Security Clearance: Active US DoD SECRET clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain one. - General Skills: Proficiency in MS Office products; strong verbal/written communication, problem-solving, and presentation skills for working with internal teams, customers, and suppliers. Nice to Haves (Preferred Experience): - Direct experience with Directed Energy (DE), High-Power Microwave (HPM), Electronic Warfare (EW), or high-power radar systems. - Background in pulsed-power electronics, Pulse Forming Networks (PFNs), high-voltage trigger systems, or breakdown mitigation (pressurized dielectrics, SF6 handling, multipactor breakdown prevention). - Experience with DoD contracts and understanding of defense acquisition processes. - Experience writing and executing production-level RF test procedures and Acceptance Test Procedures (ATPs). - Familiarity with military standard environmental and electromagnetic testing (e.g., MIL-STD-461 for EMI/EMC, MIL-STD-810 for shock/vibration). WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS - Work Environment: Office and lab/testing environments using a computer terminal to access, input, and retrieve data. The environment may occasionally involve exposure to loud noises, hazardous materials, and chemicals. - Work Schedule & Pace: Subject to occasional interruptions causing shifts in priority/focus, extended periods of sitting, and occasional irregular or extended work hours. - Physical Activity: Regularly required to sit; occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, reach, and bend. - Lifting: Ability to occasionally lift and/or move objects, files, or boxes up to 50 lbs. - Travel: Ability to travel up to 10% of the time. WHY JOIN THINKOM? At ThinKom, you'll work on innovative technologies that connect people around the world. Our engineers are empowered to solve meaningful technical challenges, collaborate with industry experts, and contribute to products that make a real impact. We value innovation, teamwork, technical excellence, and continuous learning while providing an environment where engineers can grow their careers and influence the future of advanced communications technology. We foster a collaborative culture that values innovation, technical excellence, continuous learning, and professional growth. If you're looking for an opportunity to solve complex engineering challenges while helping shape the future of advanced antenna and electromagnetic technologies, we encourage you to apply. Salary Range - $80,000 - $135,000 ThinKom offer generous benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life, 401k Matching (4%), PTO, paid Holidays and Bonus Plan. ThinKom Solutions is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. ThinKom Solutions is a Drug and Alcohol free working environment with a zero-tolerance policy.