Radiation Engineer

AST SpaceMobile; Barcelona; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile seeks an RF Engineer Lead to design, develop, test, and maintain RF systems for space-based communications, including antennas, amplifiers, and filters. You will model performance for S-band, UHF, and GPS, perform acceptance testing, and ensure compliance with FCC/CE standards.

Collaborating with hardware, software, and product teams, you will document designs and support field installations while improving reliability and efficiency of RF networks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years RF engineering experience, preferably in satellite/space environments.
• Strong knowledge of RF systems including S-band, UHF, and GPS; testing and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize RF circuits, systems, and components (antennas, amplifiers, filters).
• Perform RF modeling, simulation, and performance analysis for S-band, UHF, and GPS.
• Conduct acceptance testing of RF systems and equipment.
• Execute testing, validation, troubleshooting, and performance verification activities.
• Ensure compliance with FCC/CE and other standards.
• Collaborate with hardware, software, and product engineering teams.
• Analyze signal propagation, interference, and EMC issues.
• Develop and maintain design specs, test reports, and user manuals.
• Support field testing, installation, and system integration.

Skills

RF Design

S-band

UHF

GPS

RF Testing

EMC

Documentation

Cross-functional

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering

Tools

Spectrum Analyzers

Network Analyzers

Signal Generators

HFSS

ADS

CST Studio Suite

EMC Testing Tools

PCB Design

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented RF Engineer Lead to design, develop, test, and maintain radio frequency systems and components. The ideal candidate will work on wireless communication systems, ensuring optimal performance, compliance with industry standards, and reliability across applications such as telecommunications, satellite systems, and IoT devices.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize RF circuits, systems, and components, including antennas, amplifiers, and filters.
• Conduct RF modeling, simulation, and performance analysis for S-band, UHF, and GPS systems.
• Perform acceptance testing of RF systems and equipment.
• Execute testing, validation, troubleshooting, and performance verification activities.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and industry standards (e.g., FCC, CE).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including hardware, software, and product engineering teams.
• Analyze signal propagation, interference, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) issues.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and user manuals.
• Support field testing, installation, and system integration activities.
• Monitor system performance and implement improvements to enhance reliability and efficiency.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in RF Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience in RF engineering, preferably within satellite or space communications environments.
• Strong understanding of RF systems including S-band, UHF, and GPS technologies.
• Hands‑on experience with RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators.
• Experience performing RF system testing, validation, and troubleshooting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in RF/Microwave Engineering or a related discipline.
• Experience in antenna design and propagation modeling.
• Knowledge of embedded systems and PCB design.
• Experience with compliance testing and certification processes.
• Familiarity with IoT, satellite, or radar systems.
• Experience with RF simulation tools such as HFSS, ADS, or CST.
• Knowledge of communication standards including 4G/5G, Wi‑Fi, and Bluetooth.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Technology Stack

• RF test equipment (Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers, Signal Generators).
• HFSS.
• ADS (Advanced Design System).
• CST Studio Suite.
• RF and microwave simulation tools.
• EMC testing and analysis tools.
• Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a standard office and laboratory environment and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to work with RF testing equipment and laboratory instruments safely.
• May require occasional travel for site testing, field support, and system implementation activities.
• Ability to move and handle testing equipment when required.
• Ability to work in laboratory, production, and field‑testing environments.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.