Ci4 - Autonomous Defense
Website:
ci4.com
Job details:
Ci4 builds autonomous platforms and the AI autonomy stack that runs them, tackling complex, dangerous, or repetitive tasks across maritime and land domains. Our systems rely on tightly integrated hardware and software working together in harsh, real-world environments, including underwater and defense operations.
We are looking for a Senior RF PCB Design Engineer to lead the design of RF and mixed-signal printed circuit boards for our autonomous platforms. You will own board designs from schematic capture through layout, simulation, and bring-up, working closely with systems, firmware, and mechanical engineers to get RF-critical hardware into the field.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design multilayer RF and mixed-signal PCBs, including schematic capture, stackup definition, and layout for high-frequency circuits.
- Design and optimize RF transmission lines, impedance-controlled traces, matching networks, and shielding for signal integrity.
- Select and integrate RF components such as amplifiers, filters, mixers, antennas, and RF connectors.
- Perform pre- and post-layout simulations (S-parameters, signal integrity, EMI/EMC) using tools such as ADS, HFSS, or similar.
- Collaborate with systems engineers to define RF architecture and interface requirements for communication and sensor subsystems used on autonomous underwater and land platforms.
- -Support board bring-up, debugging, and testing in the lab, including use of spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators.
- Work with contract manufacturers on fabrication, assembly, and DFM/DFT reviews for RF boards.
- Document design decisions, test results, and design files for internal use and defense customer requirements where applicable.
Qualifications:
- 7+ years of hands-on experience designing RF PCBs, with a track record of boards that shipped into production or field-tested systems.
- Strong background in RF circuit design fundamentals: impedance matching, transmission line theory, filter design, and antenna interfacing.
- Proficiency with PCB design tools such as Altium Designer or Cadence Allegro, including RF-specific layout techniques.
- Experience with RF simulation and modeling tools such as ADS, HFSS, or CST.
- Hands-on lab experience with RF test equipment: spectrum analyzers, VNAs, signal generators, and oscilloscopes.
- Solid understanding of EMI/EMC design practices and mitigation techniques.
- Ability to read and interpret system-level RF architecture and translate it into board-level design.
- Experience working on defense, aerospace, or underwater systems is a strong plus.
- Familiarity with communication protocols relevant to autonomous systems (e.g., SATCOM, acoustic modems, wireless links) is a plus.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a related field.
- Ability to work on-site with hardware labs and collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams.
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