Senior RF Design Engineer (FPGA)

Job description

ABOUT US: At Quartermaster AI, we believe the ocean should be a safe and sustainably managed resource for all. By leveraging cutting-edge AI, distributed sensing, and resilient data systems, we unlock capabilities that were only recently impossible. Our distributed open-ocean systems enable vessels and coastal infrastructure to sense, compute, and communicate, enhancing maritime domain awareness for those who need it most. JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking an RF specialist Electrical Engineer to design and develop a custom Software Defined Radio (SDR) based subsystem for the Smartmast platform, our edge-deployed maritime sensing system. You will lead the electrical design of our SDR hardware stack, including schematic development, RF layout, PCB fabrication, integration with compute hardware, COTS part selection, and field validation. This is a hands-on, cross-disciplinary role requiring deep understanding of RF signal chains, mixed-signal design, EMI mitigation, and high-speed digital interfaces. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: - Design and thoroughly document the electrical architecture for our SDR-based modules, including custom or COTS SDRs, RF front-end, clocking, ADC/DAC interfaces, and host connectivity. - Develop schematics and high-frequency PCB layouts optimized for signal integrity, low noise, and compact form factor in marine environments. - Coordinate with software engineers to validate digital interfaces and ensure clean RF signal paths from antenna to baseband. - Perform benchtop validation using spectrum analyzers, VNAs, and signal generators to benchmark performance and tune system characteristics - Support antenna integration, placement, and impedance matching in close collaboration with mechanical and system engineers - Assist with integration into the larger Smartmast system, including coordination with power, networking, and compute subsystems QUALIFICATIONS (PREFERRED): - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field 6+ years of experience in RF hardware design, with at least one full SDR or RF subsystem taken from concept to deployment - Strong experience with schematic capture and RF-aware PCB layout using tools such as Orcad or Allegro - Familiarity with ADCs/DACs, digital interfaces (PCIe, SPI, LVDS), and high-speed layout constraints - Hands-on experience with RF lab instrumentation (spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes) - Bonus: experience with marine communication bands, direction-finding, or defense-related RF systems. WORK ENVIRONMENT: - This is a remote position with collaboration via online tools. - Flexible working hours with occasional deadlines requiring high availability. - Opportunity to work on innovative projects with a global impact. BENEFITS: - Competitive salary - Flexible work hours and the option for remote work. - Opportunities for professional development and continued education.