Antenna Subject Matter Expert (SME) - AN/SPY-1 Radar System

Job Description

Kratos is seeking a highly experienced Antenna Subject Matter Expert (SME) to lead technical efforts related to the AN/SPY-1 radar system antenna subsystem, including array structures, beamformers, transmit/receive components, and thermal control units. This role is critical to the sustainment and modernization of the fleet's radar capabilities, supporting organic depot capability development, hardware harvesting and refurbishment, subsystem test strategy, and long-term technology roadmapping. The SME will provide design-level expertise and interface directly with Navy stakeholders, OEMs, and Kratos engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the technical lead for the AN/SPY-1 Antenna subsystem, supporting all radar variants (D, D(V), D(MOD)).
• Provide engineering support for antenna array diagnostics, restoration, and calibration, including phased array alignment and pattern integrity.
• Lead efforts related to antenna hardware harvesting, inspection, and restoration-including evaluation of column assemblies, horizontal beamformers, power dividers, OARs (on-array receivers), and temperature control units (TCUs).
• Support development of test plans and calibration strategies for antenna performance, including planar near-field testing, beam pattern verification, and RF alignment.
• Evaluate and support mitigation of mechanical and RF degradation, such as corrosion, delamination, or waveguide performance loss.
• Support development of repair and refurbishment procedures, depot-level maintenance strategies, and facility/equipment requirements for organic sustainment.
• Provide technical input to training materials, documentation, and Integrated Technical Data Packages (ITDPs).
• Interface with systems engineering and test teams to ensure alignment with weapon system performance requirements and downstream subsystem dependencies.
• Ensure all test and refurbishment activities meet applicable DoD environmental, safety, and quality standards, including MIL-STD and NAVSEA guidance.

Role is located in Crane, Indiana or remote for candidates willing to travel.

Experience and Skills

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience supporting phased array radar systems, including direct experience with AN/SPY-1 antenna subsystems.
• In-depth understanding of phased array theory, T/R isolation, beamforming networks, and mechanical integration of RF components.
• Hands-on experience with antenna test systems, including near-field scanners, RF pattern analysis, and calibration tooling.
• Familiarity with shipboard radar installation, environmental considerations, and corrosion-resistant material design.
• Ability to review and develop technical drawings, RF interface documentation, and test procedures.
• Active Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with AEGIS Weapon System integration, antenna-to-signal processor interface timing, and combat system alignment.
• Prior involvement in ORDALT execution, depot overhaul, or test stand development for antenna subsystems.
• Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and digital engineering environments.
• Knowledge of DMSMS risk mitigation, including material substitutions and redesign strategies for obsolete mechanical or RF components.
• Active TS/SCI Clearance

Travel: ~10-20%, including visits to shipyards, government facilities, and partner labs.

(No phone calls please)

#LI-AC1

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement