Lead RF Engineer

Title:

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR seeks a Lead RF Engineer with expertise in signal processing, embedded systems, and cybersecurity to advance our mission-critical programs. The ideal candidate will combine hands-on experience in real-time software development (C/C++, Python), digital signal processing (DSP), and RF engineering with technical leadership skills to mentor teams delivering solutions for environments at the tactical edge.

Ideal candidates are eager to build on their expertise in SIGINT applications, real-time SWaP-constrained systems, and AI development to address high-stakes national security challenges. They should demonstrate proven leadership in delivering mission-critical defense solutions and possess hands-on experience in prototype development, from design through implementation, testing, and user transition. 

Why Join Us? 

• Innovative Projects: At KBR, you'll be working on prototype projects that support the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s most mission-critical objectives. The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace force.  

• Collaborative Environment: KBR fosters a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere where cross-functional teams of product managers, engineers, developers, and defense experts work in unison. We practice Agile and DevOps principles, ensuring rapid iteration, continuous feedback, and integration across all projects. Our team is passionate, forward-thinking, and united by a mission-first mindset that encourages knowledge sharing, innovation, and problem-solving at every level. 

• Impactful Work: Your work here won’t just be limited to software development—it will directly support the Air Force in expanding current national capabilities. As the Air Force's leader for National-to-Tactical capability development, AFRL collaborates with leading experts across the Intelligence Community, Department of Defense, National Laboratories, industry, inter-agency, academia, and partner nations. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead full-cycle development of real-time, resource-constrained systems (e.g., SDR-based adaptive filtering, GPS spoofing mitigation) using AI/ML and DSP techniques
• Architect and prototype cybersecurity capabilities to counteract SIGINT threats, jamming interference, and target tracking challenges
• Collaborate with stakeholders to design functioning prototypes aligned with operational constraints
• Mentor junior engineers in software development methodologies, technical problem-solving, and embedded software lifecycle management
• Communicate complex concepts clearly to senior leadership and non-specialist audiences

Work Environment:

• Location: Colorado Springs, CO – 100% Onsite
• Travel Requirements: Minimal
• Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications:

Required:

• Security Clearance: Must possess an active U.S. government Top Secret (SCI) security clearance, which only a U.S. citizen can obtain
• Education: PhD or MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields
• Experience: 5+ years of experience working on DOD/intelligence programs (SIGINT, SATCOM, RF systems)
• Proficiency in DSP algorithm design, embedded software development (C/C++, Python), and real-time system integration
• Familiarity with RF prototyping tools (e.g., SDR, MATLAB), test environments, and low-level hardware interfaces
• Demonstrated leadership in technical teams, including mentorship of junior staff and program management

 Desired:

• Experience with AI/ML for signal analysis or cybersecurity (e.g., ML-enhanced emitter classification)
• Strong commitment to innovation in cyber-physical sensing systems, including field-deployable solutions

Basic Compensation: $148,600 - $222,900 (For Colorado Springs Only)

The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity. 

Additional Compensation: 

KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.  

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture.  These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company.  That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together. 

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.