About Calian

At Calian, we help organizations overcome obstacles, manage risks, and drive progress. Since 1982, we’ve grown from a small consulting firm into a trusted global company across defence, space, health, nuclear energy, public safety, and government.

We create innovative solutions that tackle complex challenges and help organizations and communities stay resilient, informed, and connected. If you’re driven by purpose and energized by solving real-world challenges, we want you on our team.

Job Type: Full Time

Position Overview

The Senior Antenna & Sustaining RF Engineer provides technical leadership and hands‑on expertise across the full product lifecycle of antenna and RF front‑end systems—from concept and new product introduction (NPI) through production sustainment and end‑of‑life management.

This role encompasses the design, development, optimization, and long‑term maintenance of antennas, Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs), transmit amplifiers, and supporting analog (and occasionally digital) circuitry.

The primary technical focus is on L‑Band GNSS systems, with responsibility extending to products operating up to 5 GHz. The role requires deep expertise in electromagnetic and RF performance, combined with strong production, test, and sustaining engineering capability to ensure reliability, manufacturability, scalability, cost efficiency, and sustainability.

Responsibilities

  • Own sustaining engineering for antenna and RF products, driving yield improvement, issue resolution, and lifecycle management across production
  • Lead antenna design, simulation, prototyping, and validation, balancing performance, cost, manufacturability, and reliability
  • Perform electromagnetic analysis using simulation tools and measurement data to refine designs
  • Define mechanical interfaces, materials, and fabrication approaches with cross-functional teams
  • Support NPI from concept through production, ensuring alignment with DFM, DFT, and DfS principles
  • Conduct root cause analysis for manufacturing and field issues; implement corrective actions
  • Optimize designs for performance, reliability, cost, and long-term component availability
  • Develop and improve RF production test methods, fixtures, and calibration processes
  • Analyze test and production data to improve yield, reduce test time, and minimize waste
  • Maintain design documentation, test procedures, and technical records
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards and best practices

Qualifications

The Senior Antenna & Sustaining RF Engineer requires a strong theoretical foundation combined with extensive hands‑on experience across antenna and RF design, production support, and sustaining engineering. This role demands technical depth, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to drive solutions throughout the product lifecycle—from NPI through high‑volume production and field support.

  • Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field (PhD is an asset)
  • 5-10+ years of industry experience in antenna and RF engineering
  • Deep understanding of electromagnetic theory, antenna systems, and RF/microwave design principles
  • Strong experience with EM simulation tools (e.g., HFSS, CST or equivalent)
  • Hands-on expertise with RF test equipment (VNA, spectrum analyzer, signal generator, antenna measurement systems)
  • Experience with production test development, calibration methods, and traceability
  • Solid understanding of RF PCB layout, grounding, shielding, and system integration
  • Proficiency in data analysis and automation tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
  • Experience supporting manufacturing, sustaining engineering, and NPI activities

Additional Requirements

  • Experience with GNSS or L-Band systems is strongly preferred
  • Familiarity with high-volume production environments and yield optimization
  • Knowledge of DFM, DFT, and Design for Sustainability (DfS) principles
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured approach to complex issues
  • Effective communication and collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams
  • Ability to balance performance, reliability, cost, and lifecycle considerations

Compensation

$120,000 – $150,000 CAD

Vacancy

We have 1 available position.

#LI-MT1# #SF#

AI Usage Disclosure

At Calian, we do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen or evaluate candidates. AI tools may support backend administrative tasks, but they do not influence hiring decisions. All evaluations and decisions are made by real people on our recruitment team and hiring managers. All applicants are reviewed and only those chosen for an interview will be contacted by our recruiting team.

How we hire

  • Our hiring process is designed to help us get to know you and discover if you are the best fit for our team. It’s also an opportunity for you to gauge if a role at Calian is the right fit for you.

    Throughout the process, we’ll share details of the kind of work you’ll be doing, the projects you’ll be working on, the team you’ll be joining, and what it’s like working at Calian. Our biggest tip throughout the process is to  just be your authentic self! 
  • Our commitment to diverse, yet highly specialized solutions require many different skills and abilities. We look for the best talent that can contribute to Calian’s success as well as enhance our  culture. We encourage you to apply to a role or join our talent community and sign up for job alerts that match your area of expertise and what you are looking for in your next opportunity.  

    During the recruiting process, you’re encouraged to notify us of any accommodations you may require. We’ll be happy to help. 

  • We give the same time and consideration to everyone who applies. Here are a few things you can do to ensure your application shines: 

    • Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join 
    • Add a cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for this position  
    • Share a portfolio, personal websites, or links to your professional social media 
    • In your CV, highlight your key achievements – this is your time to brag 
    • Include dates! Share the timeline of your experience 
    • Stand out by tailoring your resume to each position you apply to  
    • Only apply to roles you’re genuinely interested in and that align to your experience 
    • Be prepared! Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
    • View the responsibilities for the role and find examples that demonstrate how you’ve completed these in your previous work  experience 
    • Prepare a list of questions to ask us 
    • Dress business casual for your interview (virtual and in person) 
    • We assess your skills and fit, you assess our fit for you 
    • We keep you updated and share expectations as we make progress in the recruiting cycle  
    • Feel free to reach out to your Talent Acquisition Specialist at any time during the hiring process 

Perks and benefits

  • Flexible work hours
  • Robust company-paid benefits
  • Generous time off package
  • A balanced approach to work and life
  • Stock purchase plan
  • RRSP program*
  • Work from home options