JOB DETAILS

RF High Power Amplifier Design Engineer

CompanyCrescend Technologies LLC
LocationGlendale Heights
Work ModeOn Site
PostedMarch 4, 2026
About The Company
Pioneering the Future of Solid-State, High Power RF Microwave Energy Leveraging recent advancements in semiconductor technology and collaboration in our approach, we help you develop and implement radically improved drying, heating and other microwave-assisted solutions that transform your business. At the forefront of microwave innovation, Crescend Technologies helps you replace outdated fossil-fueled fired oven and magnetron-based generators with cutting-edge solid-state microwave generators to: • Substantially increase throughput • Minimize maintenance with virtually no downtime • Support your company's decarbonization initiatives • Promote sustainability with green energy that can be sourced locally • Reduce emissions by moving to a no-emission system • Pioneer and innovate new microwave-assisted processes for you business Our solutions deliver precise power, frequency, and phase control with ultra-fast response times, ensuring optimal performance. With over 30 years of expertise in solid-state microwave generators and RF amplifiers for commercial, industrial, and defense applications, Crescend Technologies has a legacy of excellence. With a focus on solid-state, RF microwave technology, Crescend is dedicated to helping you achieve unparalleled effectiveness, reliability and sustainability in your operations. Since we introduced the world’s first 50-kilowatt solid-state microwave generator in 2019, we have shipped over a million watts of microwave power worldwide. Our solid-state units offer numerous capabilities, setting new standards for reliability, production throughput, cost of ownership, safety, and ease of maintenance. With standard power options ranging from 2.5 kilowatts to 50 kilowatts and the ability to combine power to reach 1 megawatt and beyond, our microwave generators cater to diverse industry needs. Contact us to learn about our solid-state microwave products for LMR, Defense, and High Power RF Energy Microwave Generators.
About the Role

Description

Crescend Technologies is seeking a skilled High-Power Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer to help us pioneer the future of solid-state, high-power RF energy. Under general supervision as an individual contributor, performs work of moderate complexity in managing and coordinating engineering activities related to RF High Power Amplifier hardware design, development and commercialization. This position is 100% on-site at our office located in Glendale Heights, Illinois. 

 

Essential Responsibilities 

  • Develop and problem solve new and existing RF power amplifier designs for LMR (Low Band, VHF, UHF, 900MHz for P25 and Tetra systems)
  • Develop new Solid State RF Energy L-Band and S-Band High Power Amplifiers.
  • Lead the design and development of high-power amplifier blocks including matching networks, bias circuits, and thermal management.
  • Utilize and apply the Smith chart for impedance matching, stability analysis, and designing power transfer matching networks.
  • Work with GaN and LDMOS technologies to optimize amplifier efficiency, linearity, bandwidth and thermal management.
  • Utilize simulation tools (AWR Microwave Office) to model, analyze and optimize RF circuit performance within PCBA layouts.
  • Ensure design meets all specifications, (e.g., including gain, power output, efficiency, and 
  • ruggedness).
  • Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to ensure robust designs.
  • Maintain detailed design documentation and simulation results.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.



Requirements

  • Proven experience in high- power RF amplifier design (e.g., 50-100W or higher).
  • Strong proficiency with the Smith chart and its application in impedance matching and amplifier design.
  • Expertise in GaN and /or LDMOS device technologies.
  • Hands-on experience with RF simulation tools (preferable AWR Microwave Office, ADS).
  • Demonstrated knowledge of RF circuit fundamentals, including small-signal analysis, stability and biasing networks, power and gain lineup analysis, Load Pull measurement.
  • Strong, hands-on experience with troubleshooting, problem solving, development and integration skills.
  • Proficient with hands-on testing of power amplifier performance (e.g., amplitude drive characterization, RF matching network with network analyzer.
  • Proficiency in RF filter, coupler, balun and combiner design.
  • Knowledge of P25, Tetra, DMR, FCC standards.
  • Convey excellent oral and written communication.
  • Proficient with Microsoft applications including Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships. Proficient in team environment.
  • Embrace Crescend’s core values (Innovative, Commitment, Initiative & Intentional).

Preferred Requirements

  • Project management experience is a plus.
  • Experience with project management tools like Jira is a plus.
  • Understanding RF power amplifier linearization concept techniques is a plus.
  • Active Amateur Radio (Ham) license is a plus.

Education and Experience

Completion of a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering with a focus on RF/Microwave engineering; and 3-5 years’ experience in RF high-power design engineering; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.





This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed in this job position. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The management of Crescend Technologies, LLC. Reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs.

Key Skills
RF High Power Amplifier DesignSolid State RF EnergyImpedance MatchingThermal ManagementGaNLDMOSAWR Microwave OfficeRF Circuit FundamentalsLoad Pull MeasurementNetwork AnalyzerRF Filter DesignP25TetraFCC StandardsTroubleshootingIntegration
Categories
EngineeringScience & ResearchTechnologyManufacturing
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
The engineer will perform work of moderate complexity in managing and coordinating engineering activities related to RF High Power Amplifier hardware design, development, and commercialization for LMR and Solid State RF Energy systems. Key tasks include developing and problem-solving new and existing RF power amplifier designs, leading the design of high-power amplifier blocks, and utilizing simulation tools for optimization.
📋Job Type
full time
💰Salary Range
$85,000 - $120,000
📊Experience Level
2-5
💼Company Size
50
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
40 hours
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