Antenna RF Design Engineer

Calian GNSS is an Ottawa-based producer of products and components used for Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS).  

For more than 40 years, Calian has been solving the world’s most complex problems by pairing the brightest minds with powerful technology. Calian solutions impact the world; from the satellites in space that connect us to the farms that feed us, from the medical professionals who care for us to the governments, schools and companies that make the world better every day. 

Full-time | On-site in Ottawa, ON  

Position Overview  
 
 

Reporting to the Director, GNSS Production R&D, the Antenna RF Design Engineer will primarily be focused on electrical and electromagnetic characteristics and performance requirements, as well as mechanical and size considerations, both physical and with respect to electromagnetic interaction.  

This position will involve highly practical, lab-driven role focused on developing and prototyping advanced antenna solutions for user equipment (UE), IoT devices, and small cell systems supporting LTE, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi technologies. The position requires working within compact, real-world constraints to deliver optimized performance. It emphasizes creativity, rapid iteration, and hands-on engineering, alongside a strong foundation in antenna theory and behavior in complex, multi-disciplinary environments.  

Responsibilities  
 
  

• Design and develop antennas, Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs), analog circuits and transmit amplifiers  

• Conceptualize novel configurations for antenna products related to mechanical precision, fabrication, and electromagnetic simulation  

• Generate data sheets, tolerance estimation, characterization, and support for antenna production  

• Research components, designs, and computer simulations for PCB and prototypes for LNAs Generate data sheets, test methods and systems, and support for LNAs production  

• Design, simulate and test radiation and electrical characteristics of novel antenna structures Incorporate minimum cost mechanical structures convenient for manufacturing  

• Design and simulation of LNAs for GNSS antenna optimization Design target specifications for new product developments  

• Measure parameters to validate initial prototype performance  

• Develop test plans for formal testing to demonstrate compliance with standards  

• Create functional block requirements through analysis of product requirements and standards  

• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure optimum manufacturability  

• Write technical papers, patent descriptions, and other documentation for our products  

• Design and develop antennas for cellular (LTE/5G), Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi across user equipment (UE), IoT devices, and small cell platforms.  

• Collaborate closely with mechanical, RF, and PCB layout engineers to resolve real-world integration conflicts and ensure antenna designs meet both system performance and physical constraints.  

• Proactively identify and communicate antenna-related risks and propose design alternatives or mitigations early in the product development cycle.  

• Perform hands-on antenna testing, and analyze key performance metrics including return loss, isolation, TRP, TIS, gain patterns, and SAR compliance.  

• Support and prepare for regulatory certification processes (e.g., FCC, CE, CTIA) and troubleshoot antenna-related compliance and performance issues.  

Qualifications  
 
 

• Bachelors, Masters, or PhD in Electrical Engineering is preferred   

• Minimum of 5+ years of industry antenna design experience is required   

• Experience in researching and designing communication systems, antenna design, and microwave design, or low noise amplified design   

• Experience in GNSS antenna designs, spiral antenna designs, and phase array is an asset  

• Experience with VNA, spectrum analyzer, oscilloscope, or anechoic chamber is considered an asset  

• Strong hands-on experience building, tuning, and integrating antennas for LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth in real products with compact size and system constraints.  

• Familiarization with antenna responses in reflective environments  

• Willing and able to travel internationally and adhere to international travel requirements as determined by the Government  

• Good understanding of regulatory standards and certification processes, including FCC Part 15, CTIA, SAR, and OTA testing procedures.  

• Familiar with RF system-level design, including RF front-end, EMC/EMI considerations, and antenna-aware PCB layout practices.  

• Comfortable in client-facing roles, including technical discussions, design reviews, and supporting technical sales or business development efforts.  

Additional Requirements  
 
 

• Significant autonomy and decision making is required with the ability to handle both simple and complex challenges.   

• Proven ability to navigate design conflicts and competing priorities, balancing antenna performance targets with overall system-level requirements.