What's Happening?
L3Harris Technologies is actively recruiting a Specialist, Systems Engineer for Software Defined Radio (SDR) in Yorba Linda, California. This role is crucial for the company's Navigation Solutions division, which focuses on delivering advanced military
GPS and Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) capabilities for national security. The engineer will be responsible for integrating, configuring, and validating SDR architectures used in GPS simulators, developing and executing RF test methodologies, and implementing FPGA- and DSP-based signal processing chains. A key aspect of the position involves field testing GPS receivers in contested environments, including scenarios with jamming, spoofing, and intentional interference, to ensure mission effectiveness for warfighters. The role requires a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field with at least four years of relevant experience, or equivalent, and an active US Secret security clearance. L3Harris emphasizes its commitment to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, fostering an inclusive environment, and maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Why It's Important?
This recruitment highlights the ongoing demand for specialized engineering talent in the defense technology sector, particularly in areas critical to national security. The focus on Software Defined Radio and advanced GPS/PNT capabilities underscores the evolving nature of modern warfare and the need for resilient systems in contested environments. The engineer's work will directly contribute to ensuring the reliability and performance of military navigation systems, which are vital for the operational success of U.S. armed forces across various domains—space, air, land, sea, and cyber. The ability to test and validate these systems against adversarial threats is paramount for maintaining a technological edge. This position also reflects L3Harris Technologies' role as a 'Trusted Disruptor' in defense tech, indicating a commitment to innovation and delivering cutting-edge solutions to its customers. The requirement for a security clearance emphasizes the sensitive nature of the work and the importance of protecting classified information.
What's Next?
L3Harris Technologies will continue its recruitment process to fill this Specialist, Systems Engineer position. Qualified candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process, including verification of their STEM background, relevant experience with SDRs, and the necessary security clearance. Once hired, the engineer will immediately begin contributing to the development and testing of critical navigation solutions. The ongoing work will involve close collaboration with cross-functional teams, external test ranges, customers, and mission partners to ensure that GPS receivers and simulators meet stringent military performance standards. The company's continuous investment in high-performing talent for defense technology suggests a sustained effort to enhance national security capabilities and address emerging threats in the PNT domain. Future developments may include further advancements in SDR technology and more sophisticated testing methodologies to counter increasingly complex adversarial tactics.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate need for a systems engineer, this job opening reflects broader trends in defense and technology. The emphasis on 'Software Defined Radio' signifies a shift towards more flexible, adaptable, and upgradeable communication and navigation systems, moving away from rigid hardware-defined solutions. This flexibility is crucial for rapidly responding to new threats and integrating diverse technologies. The requirement for field testing in 'contested and threat-representative environments' points to the increasing sophistication of electronic warfare and the necessity for robust, anti-jamming, and anti-spoofing capabilities in military GPS. This role is not just about engineering; it's about safeguarding critical national infrastructure and military assets against advanced cyber and electronic attacks. The company's commitment to diversity and inclusion, alongside its E-Verify and drug-free workplace policies, also highlights the broader corporate responsibility and ethical standards expected within the defense industry.
