Company Description
Vorbeck is a technology company specializing in advanced material solutions and graphene applications. Our innovations support a wide range of industries, including communications, electronic warfare, firefighting, and aerospace. We operate across both government and commercial sectors, offering manufacturing and service support through our multi-state offices. As a fast-growing, entrepreneurial, and privately held company, Vorbeck combines cutting-edge R&D with in-house manufacturing to deliver high-performance material-based solutions.
Job Description
The Senior Associate, Antenna Research Engineer at Vorbeck will be responsible for the design, development, and optimization of innovative antennas and directional arrays. This role includes applied research focused on integrating graphene-based technologies into lightweight, conformal antenna systems. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the physics of electromagnetic wave propagation and hands-on experience with antenna modeling and simulation using CST Studio Suite.
- Antenna and Array Product Development: Contribute to all phases of system development, from concept and design through modeling, optimization, validation, and final product launch. Ensure the seamless integration of graphene-based antennas and arrays with compatible signal processing architectures.
- Advanced Electromagnetic Modeling: Apply advanced RF electromagnetic wave modeling, materials attenuation calculations, modulation techniques, and antenna radiation pattern predictions to design solutions for Vorbeck clients.
- Antenna Array Design: Design and model performance of active and passive arrays incorporating graphene-based antennas. Potential applications include Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal reception while ensuring performance resiliency in Electronic Combat environments.
- Antenna Performance Modeling and Optimization: Utilize CST Studio Suite to model and simulate antenna characteristics while optimizing design parameters for desired performance. Specific frequencies of interest will be between 3 MHz and 6 GHz.
- Technical Leadership: Provide technical leadership in the design, development, and testing of RF systems, ensuring they meet rigorous operational requirements and industry standards.
- Field Test Support and System Performance Validation: Build test plans and provide hands-on support during field testing and live demonstrations of RF systems. Ensure test planning and execution lead to successful deployment, operation, and troubleshooting in real-world environments.
- Solution Research, Cost Estimation, and Project Planning: Conduct detailed research to identify optimal solutions for RF system requirements, estimate costs, and develop realistic project timelines. Work with cross-functional teams to assess resource needs and ensure technical solutions align with specifications and budget constraints.
- Risk Management: Identify potential technical challenges and risks, proactively developing strategies to mitigate them and ensure project success.
- Intellectual Property: Work with the legal team to protect intellectual property through patent filings and other legal processes.
- Other tasks may be required, including delivering external technical presentations, technical support for proposals, etc.
- Travel (expected) 10%
Qualifications
Education
- A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (EE) or Physics, with a strong focus on electromagnetic wave propagation, is required. A Master of Science degree or current enrollment as a Ph.D. candidate in Electrical Engineering or Physics, specializing in electromagnetic wave propagation, is highly preferred.
Experience
- Three or more years of hands-on experience with antenna and array design, modeling, and optimization, with a solid understanding of advanced Radio Frequency (RF) telecommunications principles.
- Proficiency in electromagnetic wave modeling with a solid understanding of antenna array design.
- Experience using CST Studio Suite to model and optimize antenna performance.
- Experience working with signaling solutions, particularly in the 3 MHz to 6 GHz frequency range.
- Demonstrated ability to design, develop, and test RF components in complex, real-world environments, ensuring high performance and reliability.
Skills and Abilities
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, and effectively document results.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, with a track record of addressing complex RF system challenges and implementing innovative solutions.
- Excellent organizational and project management capabilities, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and consistently meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience in conducting field tests, troubleshooting, and validating RF system performance in real-world conditions.
- Strong work ethic, with the ability to work independently or as part of a collaborative, fast- paced team.
Additional Information
Job Type:
Full-time, 40 hours per week
Classification:
Exempt
Physical Setting/work location:
In-Office
Pay Range: $125,000 - $150,000, based on experience.
Benefits include:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Program
- Vacation, Personal Time, and 10 Paid Holidays
- Company-sponsored Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
- Opportunity for Relocation Assistance
*Vorbeck is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law. This position will involve work on government contracts and the government requires that qualified candidates must be United States citizens.
All personal information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.*
