RF Design Engineer - Power Amplifiers

RF Design Engineer – RF Power Amplifiers / GaN

Chicago area, Illinois | 100% on-site

$150,000–$200,000 base salary | Relocation assistance available

Want to design high-power RF amplifiers and see your work move from simulation into hardware?

Octagon Group is recruiting an RF Design Engineer for a growing specialist in solid-state RF and microwave power amplifiers. Working on systems delivering up to 20–25 kW, you’ll tackle challenging power amplifier designs for demanding military and defense applications.

You’ll join a close-knit engineering team with direct access to the VP of Engineering and CEO, fast technical decisions, and the opportunity to influence products as the business expands.

The opportunity

• Design and develop GaN RF power amplifiers, from concept and simulation through prototype testing and production.
• Use Keysight ADS to simulate, analyze and optimize amplifier performance.
• Address high-power RF challenges, including gain and phase matching.
• Work closely with PCB, mechanical and manufacturing colleagues to turn designs into reliable hardware.

What we’re looking for

• Practical GaN power amplifier design experience.
• Hands-on experience using Keysight ADS.
• A strong understanding of RF/microwave circuits and power amplifier behavior.
• An analytical, hands-on approach to design, testing and troubleshooting.

Experience in aerospace, defense or military RF hardware would be particularly relevant. Engineers with MMIC design experience are also encouraged to apply where their background includes GaN PA design and ADS.

There is flexibility on seniority, including consideration for exceptional recent graduates with directly relevant research or project experience.

What’s on offer

• $150,000–$200,000 base salary, depending on experience.
• Relocation assistance, agreed individually.
• Potential stock options for the right senior appointment.
• Technically challenging work, a flat hierarchy and room to grow with the business.

This position is fully on-site in the Chicago area. Visa sponsorship is unavailable; U.S. citizens and green card holders are welcome to apply.

Interested in exploring the opportunity? Apply through LinkedIn or contact Bhav Patel at Octagon Group for a confidential discussion.